There was an outpouring of grief as comic actor, Kunle Adetokunbo, popularly known as Dejo Tunfulu, was buried in Ikorodu, Lagos on Friday, according to Islamic rites.
The sight of his grief-stricken elicited emotions, as his colleagues and well-wishers thronged the graveside to pay their last respects.
His first son, Junior, told journalists that his father had an unfulfilled dream in the movies he had produced but were yet to be released.
“My dad believed in me that I can act. I used to be nervous and scared. He had four children. He was sick before he died. He told my younger brother that we should not fight the doctors before he passed on.
“He was taken to Ikorodu General Hospital where his colleagues showed up and they really tried (their best for him). I appreciate their efforts because they stood by him. I pray my dad’s soul will rest in peace. My dad already created some things for us (his children) before he died.
“Some of his films have not been produced, and he was supposed to release them before he passed on. I just have to make him proud wherever he is. That was what he told me last year.”
Junior’s sister, Victoria, stated that they would appreciate whatever help they could get, particularly from the government. She said, “In any way the government can support us, they should. Even if it is school fees, house rent or job opportunities, we would appreciate. Three of us (siblings) are still in school.”
Complementing his brother, one of the deceased’s sons, Muiz, said, “My dad had a movie he was supposed to release in April. He had finished producing it.”
Eulogising the late Tunfulu, senior actor and president of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Producers Association of Nigeria, Bolaji Amusan, aka Mr Latin, said, “He was a brother, a co-comedian, an active industry player, a very talented actor, and we were very close.”
On the cause of Dejo’s death, Mr Latin said, “I learnt he was sick yesterday (Thursday) and he was rushed to the hospital where he died. His last moments on earth were fulfilling. He was at a function three days ago, and was on location about two days ago. It was a huge shock that we could lose somebody like him.”
Another actor, Yomi Fabiyi, also said, “Dejo Tufulu was a raw actor par excellence with serious respect for professional ethics. I never saw him come late to set or rebel against anyone. He was always supportive and reasonable. He was a good man.”
Actor, Kunle Afod, similarly said, “He was a close friend and a senior colleague.
“I celebrate him every time. I don’t know about those that don’t talk about him. Anyway, that is life for you.”
