Nollywood’s Final Farewell: Unveiling the Legacy of Columbus Irosanga
The journey was over.
The long, somber journey home.
The body of Nollywood actor Columbus Irosanga had returned.
Returned for burial.
The news had spread like a ripple through the close-knit community.
A wave of sorrow washing over the industry.
He was a veteran.
A respected figure.
His passing marked the end of an era for many.
The day of the burial arrived.
The third day of the ceremonies.
The day designated for the final rites.
The day to say goodbye.
The atmosphere was heavy with grief.
Yet, there was also a sense of profound respect.
A recognition of a life well-lived.
A life dedicated to the arts.
The gathering took place at a local grammar school.
An unexpected venue perhaps.
But one that held significance.
Given Columbus Irosanga‘s deep connection to education.
And his role as a mentor.
Family members were present.
Their faces etched with pain.
Colleagues from Nollywood arrived.
Their presence a testament to his impact.
Younger actors he had taught stood alongside seasoned veterans.
All united in mourning.
The air was filled with hushed conversations.
Shared memories.
And the quiet sound of tears.
Music played softly in the background.
A mournful soundtrack accompanying the solemn proceedings.
It was a day of reflection.
A day of remembrance.
A day to honor a man who had given so much.
Dr. Regina Ro, the Chairman of Movie Producers at Nollywood State, was among those who paid tribute.
She spoke with heartfelt emotion.
Referring to Columbus Irosanga as their brother.
Their veteran.
The man they all knew and admired.
She shared a personal story.
A moment of connection that highlighted his resilience.
He had called her from a military hospital.
A place of healing.
She had visited him.
Staying by his side for two weeks.
Later, he had called again.
He was home.
Out of the hospital.
They had sat together.
Discussing life.
Making plans.
Agreeing on things.
But fate, it seemed, had other plans.
The illness had taken its toll.
It was a poignant reminder of the struggles faced even by those in the public eye.
Dr. Ro‘s words resonated with the crowd.
They painted a picture of a man who fought until the end.
A man who faced his challenges with courage.
She spoke of his remarkable journey.
His unwavering pursuit of knowledge.
He had sought training abroad.
A visionary step in his career.
In London, he earned a diploma.
In television production and direction.
That was back in 1977.
He didn’t stop there.
He continued to hone his craft.
Adding diplomas in location outing and dancing.
From the prestigious Regatta Schools in the United Kingdom.
These early studies laid the groundwork.
For his diverse and impactful career.
He became a multidisciplinary artist.
Skilled in various aspects of performance and production.
Upon his return to Nigeria, his academic pursuits continued.
He enrolled at the University of Port Harcourt.
Where he earned a Bachelor of Art in Education in 1993.
He furthered his studies.
Obtaining a Master of Education degree in 2005.
His educational journey was not merely about acquiring degrees.
It was driven by a deep passion.
A desire to elevate the work of art.
To use it as a tool for education and social change.
He believed in the transformative power of art.
And he dedicated his life to harnessing it.
His professional career began in 1978.
He served as the Head of Drama.
At the River State Council for Arts and Culture.
He held this position until 1982.
His work there was pivotal.
He developed cultural initiatives.
He inspired a new generation of performers.
Many of whom are now prominent figures in the industry.
His early leadership shaped the cultural landscape.
Leaving a lasting impact on the arts scene in River State.
He was also a prolific performer himself.
Gracing the stage in numerous productions.
He was known for his roles in plays like “The Most of Holarity.”
And “Class 16.”
He appeared in “Played by the Gods.”
And “I Love to Blame Our Husband He’s Gone Mad Again.”
His performance in “If Hope or Believe in Death” was also memorable.
These roles showcased his versatility.
His ability to captivate audiences.
And his mastery of his craft.
In 1982, he joined the University of Port Harcourt Theater.
Serving as Deputy Director and Senior Art Fellow.
He remained there until 2010.
This period marked a significant phase of his career.
Where he seamlessly blended his performance skills with his passion for teaching.
He found immense fulfillment in mentoring aspiring artists.
Sharing his knowledge and experience.
In 2004, he took on the role of coordinator.
For the River State Pre Certificate in Theater Arts.
This allowed him to directly influence the training curriculum.
And shape the development of young talent.
His students remembered him fondly.
And perhaps with a touch of awe.
They recalled his early morning drill sessions.
Starting at 7 a.m.
Sessions that included rigorous dance training.
With students like Ella Lami and Evala.
He was known for his focus.
His tireless energy.
His serious approach to his work.
He was a taskmaster in the pursuit of excellence.
Pushing himself and his students to reach their full potential.
But beneath the demanding exterior was a kind heart.
Uncle Koli, as he was affectionately called, was soft-spoken.
He was compassionate.
He possessed a great personality.
He was a man of honor.
He had a unique way of guiding his students.
Instead of harsh criticism.
He would offer gentle, yet powerful, feedback.
He would say, “Those of you that are trying.”
And then, “Those of you that are not trying also.”
It was a subtle but effective method.
Encouraging effort without resorting to negativity.
He often shared a profound piece of advice.
“Look around you and change your life.”
It was a call to action.
A challenge to take responsibility for one’s own growth and development.
This simple phrase encapsulated his philosophy.
The belief in the power of self-improvement.
His mentorship had a profound impact.
He guided countless actors.
Many of whom went on to achieve great success.
As directors, actors, and producers.
In Nollywood and on the stage.
He was a true legend of Nigerian arts.
Known by various names and associated with iconic roles.
He was a complete theater and film great.
In 2017, he was appointed Senior Lecturer.
In the Department of Theater Art.
At the University of Port Harcourt.
This was a fitting recognition of his vast contributions.
His academic and professional achievements were intertwined.
Creating a legacy that spanned generations.
He left behind a loving family.
His wife.
His children.
His siblings.
And a wide network of relatives and friends.
His connection to his community was deep.
His loss was felt keenly by many.
The burial ceremony continued.
With religious rites adding to the solemnity.
A representative from the church spoke.
Addressing the departed soul.
They acknowledged his time among them.
“You’ve been with us,” they said.
“Part of us.”
But now, he had moved on.
“Now you have gone to be with the Lord.”
They spoke of the spiritual realm.
The separation between light and darkness.
Between Christ and life.
They decreed a separation.
Between the dead and the living.
A spiritual boundary was established.
A prayer was offered for his peaceful transition.
That he would not make appearances in the world.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ.
Amen.
A protective decree followed.
A strong invocation against anyone who would disturb his rest.
Anyone who would tamper with his body.
Before it took its first step.
They prayed that such a person would face consequences.
Going down in the mighty name of Jesus.
It was a powerful moment of faith.
Ensuring the sanctity of the burial site.
And the peaceful rest of the departed.
The final prayer was for his eternal peace.
“You will have your rest,” they said.
“Until we meet to part no more.”
Amen.
In Jesus mighty name.
The ceremony concluded with singing.
The voices of the mourners rising in unison.
A final tribute in song.
As the time for interment approached.
The emotions ran high.
The reality of the final goodbye setting in.
The casket was prepared.
To be lowered into the earth.
The final resting place.
The burial of Columbus Irosanga was more than just a funeral service.
It was a commemoration of a life dedicated to the arts.
A life that enriched the lives of countless others.
His legacy was not confined to the stage or screen.
It lived on in the hearts and minds of his students.
In the performances he inspired.
In the institutions he helped build.
He was a multifaceted talent.
A scholar, a performer, a director, a teacher, a mentor.
His impact was immeasurable.
His absence left a void in the industry.
The tears shed were for the loss of a beloved figure.
For a talent that would be missed.
For a mentor whose guidance would no longer be available.
But there were also tears of gratitude.
For the knowledge he imparted.
For the inspiration he provided.
For the profound mark he left on the Nigerian arts scene.
The burial site became a place of solemn reflection.
The final home of a legend.
The earth received his body.
While his spirit ascended.
The community of Nollywood and the wider arts world mourned together.
United in their grief.
And in their deep respect for Columbus Irosanga.
His life story was a testament to passion, dedication, and perseverance.
He navigated the challenges of the industry.
He championed the cause of arts education.
He mentored generations of artists.
His voice, his presence, his wisdom.
They would be remembered.
As the sun began to set.
Casting long shadows over the burial ground.
The crowd slowly dispersed.
Carrying the weight of the day.
And the enduring memory of Columbus Irosanga.
His name would forever be etched in the history of Nigerian arts.
His work a lasting testament to his talent and dedication.
His life a source of inspiration for future generations.
Rest in peace, dear veteran.
Rest in peace, Columbus Irosanga.
Your final act on this stage is complete.
But your legacy will continue to shine brightly.
The tears may eventually dry.
But the impact you made will remain.
Strong and enduring.
Just like the art you loved.
Farewell.
A heartfelt farewell.
To a true icon.
A legend.
Columbus Irosanga.
