Nigerian plus-sized model and actress Monalisa Ayobami Stephen has passed away. The Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON), Seun Oloketuyi, announced the heartbreaking news via Instagram on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025, revealing that Monalisa died on Tuesday, May 13th, in Lagos after a battle with low blood sugar and internal bleeding.
The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning as Monalisa Ayobami Stephen, a beloved plus-sized model, actress, and advocate, has passed away. The news of her death was confirmed by Seun Oloketuyi, the CEO of Best of Nollywood (BON), through an Instagram post on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025.
According to Seun, Monalisa died on Tuesday, May 13th, in Lagos following complications from low blood sugar and internal bleeding. Her immediate younger sister confirmed the tragic news. In his tribute, Seun described Monalisa as a hardworking and beautiful soul who left an indelible mark on those who knew her.
Brand influencer Monalisa Ayobami Stephen is dead,” he wrote. “She died yesterday in Lagos after losing the fight against low sugar and internal bleeding. Her immediate younger sister confirmed the death of this hardworking and beautiful soul.”
The announcement shocked many, including Monalisa’s colleagues in Nollywood. Actress Moyo Lawal expressed disbelief, writing, “Wait. How?” Toyin Abraham and Mo Bimpe also shared their confusion and grief in the comment section, with Bimpe Akintunde lamenting that Monalisa did not reach out during her struggles.
Monaaaaaa, you could have at least called or messaged me during your trying times. This news has left me shattered,” Bimpe wrote, praying for Monalisa’s soul to find eternal rest.
Monalisa had been open about her health challenges, revealing in 2022 that she had battled diabetes since childhood. Despite her condition, she remained a strong advocate for body positivity and resilience, even as she faced online trolling.
Her passing adds to the string of losses Nollywood has faced recently, including the deaths of veterans Nkechi Nweje in March and Columbus Irisoanga earlier this year.
