The life and times of actress Moji Olaiya

She was born into the musical dynasty of Nigerian high-life legend Victor Olaiya in February 1975.

In the early 2000s when the Nigerian movie industry was beginning to experience a resurgence and gaining attention, Moji Olaiya earned her acting debut in Wale Adenuga’s television series ‘No Pain, No Gain’.

She took on the role of Ireti in the 32-episode series which later introduced her to the features movie genre.

Moji Olaiya followed up her impressive debut with a strong performance in the Yoruba movie ‘Agunbaniro’. this started her run of impressive performances in Yoruba movies including in, ‘Nkan Adun’, ‘Sade Blade’ and ‘Apaadi’.

In 2003, her deft acting skills distinguished her from the bunch and earned her a two awards nominations at the Reel Awards for Best Supporting Actress of the Year, and the Best New Actress Award. she took home the prize for the latter.

In 2007, she got married but, unfortunately, walked out of the marriage shortly after. She and her husband cited irreconcilable differences for their separation.

Olaiya, however, alleged in recent interviews that domestic violence and infidelity among other things were responsible for her decision to quit the marriage.

Moji Olaiya courted more controversies in 2014 when she announced a decision to switch from Christianity to Islam.

A year after, she was identified and honored by the Nigerian Police Force in Abuja for being a role model to Nigerian youths.

Last year, in an interview with Entertainment News On Channels Television about her career and life, she said she was surprised that many people were concerned about how she had chosen to live her personal life.

In March this year, the actress announced the arrival of her second child in Canada, almost two decades after she had her first daughter.

Just two days ago, a thankful Moji Olaiya, took to Instagram to express her gratitude to God and her love for her family and fans.

“Alliamdulilahi, to you Allah I give all the glory for all you have done. I will forever praise and worship you. It’s not by power but the Grace of Allah. Thank you for the gift of life. Thanks also to all my friends and family my fans for your supports and prayers. Love you all,” the actress wrote in what turned out to be her last post on Instagram.

As news of her death from what has been described as complications from child birth filtered in on Thursday morning, shocked friends and fans could not help but point to her last post, while also paying tribute to her for the life she lived and the love and talent she shared.

Channeltvs.