By Ghazali Ibrahim
The family of veteran Nollywood actor Saheed Balogun has disclosed that his late daughter, Zeenat Balogun, died from complications related to sickle cell disease.
Zeenat, the actor’s first child, passed away in October 2024, with the circumstances surrounding her death remaining largely unknown at the time.
The revelation was made on Wednesday by her half-brother, Kahlid Balogun, in a tribute marking Zeenat’s posthumous birthday. Kahlid shared a commemorative video featuring members of the Balogun family and Zeenat’s friends, celebrating her life and legacy.
In a message accompanying the video on Instagram, Kahlid said Zeenat battled sickle cell anemia with courage and resilience.
“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.
“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.”
He added that the tribute coincided with World Sickle Cell Day and was aimed at raising awareness about the condition while honouring those living with it.
“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,” Kahlid stated.
Zeenat was the daughter of Saheed Balogun and his former wife, Sherifat, before the actor’s marriage to fellow actress Fathia Balogun. Her death drew widespread sympathy from fans and colleagues in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
