United in Grief: Saidi Balogun Stands by ex-Wife Fathia as She Buries Her Mother in Lagos

…Nollywood actors, actresses show support

Veteran Nollywood star Saidi Balogun was a pillar of support for his ex-wife, Fathia Williams, as she laid her mother to rest in Lagos.

The solemn event covered by Persecondnews brought together many from the film industry to pay their respects to Fathia’s mother, who recently passed away.

While the day was understandably emotional for Fathia, the steady presence of her former husband and her Nollywood peers offered a comforting sense of solidarity throughout the proceedings.

Among those who stood close to her was Saidi Balogun, whose presence at the event attracted attention from many guests.

Despite their divorce years ago, the actor attended the burial and was seen quietly offering support as Fathia and members of her family paid their final respects to their late matriarch.

The burial rites were marked by prayers, tributes and heartfelt reflections about the life and legacy of the deceased, whom family members described as a devoted mother who played a significant role in shaping the lives of her children.

The event also witnessed a strong turnout from the Yoruba movie industry, with several actors and filmmakers showing solidarity with the grieving actress.

Among the Nollywood stars who graced the burial were Ireti Osayemi, Bimbo Thomas, Bimbo Oshin and Toyosi Adesanya, alongside other colleagues and friends who came to pay their respects.

Many guests commended the show of unity and support among colleagues, noting that moments of grief often bring members of the entertainment community together regardless of past differences.

Saidi Balogun’s presence in particular sparked conversations among attendees, with many praising the actor for demonstrating respect and maturity despite the history between him and his former wife.

The former couple were once among Nollywood’s most talked-about pairs before their marriage ended years ago.

While their separation generated public attention at the time, both actors have since continued to maintain successful careers in the Yoruba film industry.

Over the years, Fathia Balogun has remained a prominent figure in Nollywood, earning admiration for her talent, resilience and longevity in the industry.

Those close to the actress say she shared a deep bond with her mother, who they described as a guiding influence in her personal life and professional journey.

Fathia said at the wake:” My strongest pillar of support is gone. My dad died almost two years ago. Now my mum is gone. I don’t know how to deal with this moment.

“It is too hard for me to understand and comprehend. I am praying to God to help and strengthen me because without my mum in my life, life feels empty.”