Nigeria’s entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Davis Ofor, popularly known for his iconic role as Clarus in the classic sitcom New Masquerade. Ofor, aged 85, hailed from Abia State, South East Nigeria, reportedly died on Monday April 6th 2026.
Ofor’s death was announced by fellow actor Dr Tony Akposheri via Instagram, where he expressed deep shock and sadness over the passing of his longtime colleague and friend.
“Today, my heart is heavy. Davis Ofor, fondly known as Clarus from New Masquerade, is gone,” Akposheri wrote.
He recalled that they had recently spent time together during the New Year, sharing laughter, memories, and hopeful conversations about the future.
“We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you,” he added.
Ofor rose to national prominence through his portrayal of Clarus Mgbeojikwe, a witty and memorable character in New Masquerade, one of Nigeria’s longest-running and most beloved television sitcoms. Created by James Iroha, the show aired from the mid-1970s to the mid-1990s and became a cultural touchstone for generations of Nigerians.
Originally starting as a radio programme titled Masquerade on the East Central State Broadcasting Corporation in Enugu, the show later transitioned to television, where it enjoyed widespread popularity. It featured a stellar cast including Chika Okpala, Lizzy Evoeme, Christy Essien-Igbokwe, Romanus Amuta, and others who helped shape Nigeria’s early television landscape. Akposheri played Zaky.
Beyond his acting career, Ofor was also a priest in the The Aetherius Society, a spiritual movement that blends elements of multiple religious traditions with beliefs in higher cosmic intelligence. He quit comedy in 1989 and was ordained at the Aetherius Temple in London before he returned to Nigeria; where he taught spiritual lessons and karma from his location in Aba, Abia State.
As tributes continue to pour in, Dr Akposheri described Ofor as more than a colleague, but a man whose warmth and humour left a lasting impression.
“You were more than a familiar face on screen. You were a friend, a brother, a man with warmth, humour, and a presence that could light up any space,” he wrote.
Details surrounding the cause of his death were not immediately available as of press time.
Ofor’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of New Masquerade, but his legacy lives on through the laughter and memories he created on screen.
“Rest well, my friend. You came, you gave joy, you made your mark, and you will never be forgotten,” Akposheri added.
