Months after the heartbreaking death of Zeenat Balogun, daughter of veteran Nollywood actor Saheed Balogun, her family has finally disclosed the cause of her passing.
Zeenat, who died in October 2024, left many fans and colleagues in shock, with questions lingering about the circumstances surrounding her sudden death. The family had remained silent on the issue until now.
The revelation came on Wednesday through Kahlid Balogun, Zeenat’s half-brother, who disclosed that she battled sickle cell disease before her death. He shared the information while marking her posthumous birthday with a tribute video featuring members of the Balogun family, friends, and fellow actors.
In an emotional message posted on Instagram, Kahlid described Zeenat as a fighter who faced the challenges of sickle cell anemia with courage and determination.
“We only die when we are forgotten. Today, the Balogun family remembers and celebrates the life of our beloved firstborn, Zeenat Balogun, on her posthumous birthday,” he wrote.
Reflecting on her journey, he added that despite living with the condition, Zeenat remained strong and inspiring to those around her.
“Though her journey was marked by the challenges of sickle cell anemia, she faced every battle with remarkable strength, courage, and grace, leaving behind memories that continue to inspire us every day.”
The tribute coincided with World Sickle Cell Day, a global awareness event dedicated to educating people about the inherited blood disorder and supporting those living with the condition.
Kahlid said the family chose to honor Zeenat’s memory while also drawing attention to the struggles faced by millions of sickle cell warriors worldwide.
“As we honor her birthday, we also commemorate World Sickle Cell Day through this tribute video—raising awareness, celebrating resilience, and remembering the countless warriors fighting this condition. Zeenat may no longer be with us physically, but her love, light, and legacy remain forever alive in our hearts.”
Zeenat was the first child of Saheed Balogun from his previous marriage to Sherifat before the actor later married actress Fathia Balogun. Her death was widely mourned across the Nigerian entertainment industry, with many colleagues and fans paying tribute to her life and legacy.
