The circumstances surrounding the death of Nollywood actress Temitope Osoba, popularly known as Tope Osoba, have taken a fresh turn following reports that police have detained her fiancé, Prophet Itunu Onadeko, alongside a hairdresser linked to the case.
Onadeko was reportedly taken into police custody on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, amid growing demands from the actress’ friends, associates and members of the public for authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. The reported arrest was announced publicly on Sunday by Akeem, popularly known as Oko Awon Single Mother, a close associate of the late actress.
Osoba, who was 40, died in early August after previously undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Her death generated widespread concern because of conflicting accounts about the events preceding her final moments and allegations subsequently made by some people close to her.
Following her death, some of Osoba’s friends and associates raised allegations against Onadeko and members of his family. Among the claims circulating were allegations that the actress had been subjected to bullying, isolated from people close to her and prevented from continuing some aspects of her career. These claims, however, remain allegations and have not been established by a court.
The controversy intensified after reports emerged that Osoba’s family had postponed her burial. The decision was reportedly connected to the need for further investigation and clarification surrounding the circumstances of her death, adding to public pressure for the authorities to establish what actually happened.
The Celestial Church of Christ had earlier announced that it was conducting a discreet investigation into the circumstances surrounding Osoba’s death and allegations involving Onadeko, who serves as a shepherd of the church. The church said its objective was to establish the truth and ensure that anyone found culpable would face appropriate consequences.
Onadeko, for his part, has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. In an interview with Celestial Reality Check, the media investigative unit of the Celestial Church of Christ, he disputed claims that Osoba died from cancer-related complications, poisoning or maltreatment. He also claimed that he was informed by an unidentified caller that the actress had died at a police station in Ikorodu.
The prophet also rejected allegations concerning money reportedly raised for Osoba’s medical treatment. He maintained that donations intended for her treatment were paid into her account and denied having access to or diverting the funds. He further disputed claims that he used any of the money to finance church projects.
According to reports surrounding the latest development, the police have also detained a hairdresser who was said to have been connected to Osoba in the period before her death. Another individual, identified by Akeem as Pelumi and accused in separate allegations involving the actress, was reportedly said to be at large. These claims have yet to be independently established by the authorities.
An autopsy is also expected to form part of the investigation, with the findings potentially providing important evidence about the actress’ actual cause of death and events surrounding her final hours. At the time of reporting, the police had not publicly released a detailed account confirming the reported arrests or establishing criminal responsibility.
The reported detention of Osoba’s fiancé therefore marks a significant development in a case that has generated intense public attention. While allegations and counter-allegations continue to circulate, the definitive answers are expected to come from the police investigation, forensic findings and any subsequent legal proceedings. Until those processes are completed, no individual mentioned in connection with the case should be presumed guilty of any offence.


