Justus Esiri, one of the most talented pioneer legend and star actor in the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, has reportedly died due to diabetes.
Born in November 1942, in Oria, Abraka, Delta State, Justus Esiri attended Urhobo College, Warri, and later proceeded to Germany to study Engineering, where he developed interest for live theatre practice.
He was said to have begun his acting career on stage in Germany and later rose to fame following his role in the popular Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) drama series, “The Village Headmaster,” produced by Segun Olusola, where he played the role of Headmaster.
Esiri also worked as a Translator for Voice of Nigeria (VON), German Service, and was the only Nigerian male performing on stage between 1968 and 1969.
He was said to have been invited by a Nigerian Delegation to Germany to come back home to perform in a Government-sponsored programme and never returned to Germany.
Esiri, a star of many acclaimed productions in Nollywood, was reputed to have performed on more television network drama programmes than any Nigerian actor and had many awards in his exploits as a Thespian.
He is survived by his wife, Omiete Esiri and children, among whom is Nigerian pop star musician, Dr. Sid (Sidney Esiri).
Caleb Nor
Corporate Affairs