Elizabeth Evoeme of the iconic 1980’s TV sitcom “The New Masquerade“, has passed away at 81 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
She died on Sunday May 5, surrounded by family members.
Mrs. Evoeme’s full on-screen name was Ovularia Urediya Nwogbo. She acted the wife of the legendary Chief Chika Okpala, who in turn was known as Chief Zebrudaya Okoroigwe Nwogbo, alias 4.30 Ndem.
Previous Rumours of Death
This sad development is reminiscent of a similar tale of her death in November 2019 which later turned out false. The rumour was then dismissed by her screen husband, Chief Okpala.
But this time her UK-based daughter, Justina Evoeme, confirmed the news, saying, “It is not a rumour this time. It is real and very painful. I need to get my head around what has happened.”
A formal statement from her family further confirmed the news. It expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support so far and requested their privacy be respected during this time of mourning.
The family statement reads in part,
Friends, fans, colleagues, the family of the legendary actress, Elizabeth Lizzy ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme, would like to notify the public, all those who loved her and her work in ‘The new Masquerade,’ of her passing. Elizabeth ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme will be dearly missed and was extremely loved by her family and also by you, her fans.
We thank you all for your support and for respecting our privacy at this time. God bless you all and may our dear Elizabeth ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme rest in perfect peace, now and always.
Life And Legacy
Late Ms Ovoeme was born on December 1, 1942, in Calabar, Cross River State, to a family of sea workers. Her career peaked between 1982 to 1993, predating the rise of Nollywood. In 1993, she ventured into Nollywood a bit, acting in the movie, Circle of Doom-4, but retreated to a private life afterwards.
Ovularia’s on-screen character was a blend of confidence and loyalty to her husband, a shining example of a devoted and supportive wife. Her contribution to the sitcom not only entertained but tried to shape societal norms of marriage and family, solidifying her place in the hearts of many.
An Era Is Ending
Earlier in March 2017, her fellow New Masquerade actress, Veronica Njoku, popular for her role as Ramota passed on too. The late Njoku played the role of wife to Chief Jegede Shokoya. Shokoya’s real name was Claude Eke.
Elizabeth Evoeme’s passing is the closing chapters of a great era in Nigerian entertainment. Ovularia will continue to be cherished, even though she once admitted she never really knew the meaning of her stage name. Notwithstanding, she will be remembered and missed by millions as Ovularia, her foot prints enduring in Nigeria’s television history.
Watch One Of ‘New Masquerade’ Episodes
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