Zainab Balogun, a Nollywood actress, has written a heartfelt tribute to her brother Samuel, who died in the Ikoyi building collapse.
Gist Journal recalls a 21-story skyscraper under construction in the Ikoyi district of the state collapsed off Alexander Way, Gerrard Road.
Zainab Balogun recounts her experience with her cousin in an Instagram post, describing him as a big brother who is always looking out for her.
Zainab described her cousin as the epitome of selflessness, saying she admires his vulnerability and that his death will be felt for the rest of her life.
She wrote: Dear Sammy, I really don’t know where to start. Sammy I’m going to miss you. More than you could ever know. I wish I could tell you more about what you mean to me. You were more than my cousin, you were my big brother. You took care of me. Distance wasn’t enough to stop you.
You always looked for me Sam, even when I didn’t want to be found. I admire your vulnerability. Your ability to wear it all on your sleeve. You showed me so much love. All of us. It hurts when I read your messages now. Just when i think I’m done crying, It all comes back. This is hard for us Sam. Really hard!
You gave SOOOO much of yourself to everyone. Literally poured out like a tap. I’d ask you for 1 and you’ve give me 10. You are the definition of selfless!! I’m going to miss hearing your funny laugh, giant stories and seeing that big smile.
“Yo Tobi, kilonsele!” I won’t hear you say that again or rescue me last minute like you always do. You shouldn’t have gone like this and like we’ve said, they had to take down a whole building Mighty Sam. This will never be ok and will hurt forever. I would end this by saying sleep well but knowing you, you’re probably on the move in heaven with a fast car already. Man like Sammy, I really love you brother!
Some Nollywood celebs, including Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, and Stephanie Coker, as well as fans and followers, flooded Zainab Balogun's comment section with condolence notes in response to the post.
funkejenifaakindele wrote: I’m so sorry dear. May his soul Rest In Peace
toyin_abraham wrote: So So sorry
stephaniecoker wrote: So sorry Zee
Zainab Balogun