United States-based lawyer and astronaut, Owolabi Salis, has shared a touching account of his final interactions with the late Nollywood veteran, Kehinde Olusegun Akinremi, popularly known as Chief Karan.
Also, the celebrated actor’s death was announced only a few days ago, leaving fans and colleagues in mourning.
Salis revealed that on July 11, Karan had sent him a voice note expressing excitement about celebrating both his 70th birthday and 55 years on stage.
Sadly, weeks later, the conversation turned into a plea for help.
On July 27, Karan informed him that he was battling appendicitis and urgently needed ₦700,000 for surgery.
He requested ₦350,000 to complete the medical bill.
The philanthropist, who is widely referred to as “Oba Mekunu” (King of the Poor) due to his humanitarian generosity, said he immediately sent the money.
Karan later sent multiple voice notes thanking him for the assistance.
Tragically, just three days after his last message of gratitude, news broke of his passing, a shock Salis described as “inexpressible.”
Expressing his grief, Salis disclosed that on August 18, he sent a financial contribution towards the late actor’s burial.
He further urged Nollywood, government agencies, corporate bodies, and Nigerians at large to work towards immortalising the legendary theatre icon.
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He described Karan’s death not only as “the passing of an era” but also as “shocking, lamentable, and devastating.”
