13th June, 2024
By Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Mary Remmy Njoku has shared an emotional tribute to the late veteran actor Sam Loco Efe.
In an Instagram post, she recounted her early days as an aspiring producer, expressing how much she had wanted to work with him, despite him barely knowing her.
She dreamt of creating a show just to feature him, acknowledging his status as one of Nigeria’s most talented actors.
Reflecting on her career, Njoku celebrated Efe’s huge impact on her journey and on Nollywood.
She stressed how his craft had inspired an entire generation of filmmakers.
“Life is short.
When I was an aspiring producer, I wanted to work with you so badly, even though you barely knew me. I dreamt of creating a show just to feature you. You were one of the most talented actors Nigeria has ever known and possibly ever will know.
Today, as I reflect on my journey as a filmmaker, I celebrate your contribution to my life as a creative and to Nollywood. Your craft inspired a whole generation of filmmakers.
Take your flowers and rest on, LEGEND of all time!”
Beyond being an actor, he was also a singer.
Thirteen years ago, Sam Loco passed away at the Rapour Hotel in Owerri, Imo State, at 66 years old.
Before his unexpected death on 8 August 2011, he had planned to retire and start large-scale farming in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
He was buried on 21 October 2011 in Benin City, Edo State, and is survived by six children.