Dr. Sid Opens Up On His Father's Death: Justus Esiri

Mavin records artiste, Sidney Onoriode, known to the wide audience as Dr. Sid, has finally talked about his father's death.

Announcing Esiri's death online, Dr. Sid put up a photo of the veteran actor on his Twitter avatar and updated his bio as 'RIP Dad'.

The 'Over the Moon' singer was all smiles trying to cheer the rest of the family, saying, "His life is being studied in Universities in the UK. He lived to be 70, and anything else after 70 is a gift, so there's really nothing to be sad about."

The musician was told about the death of his father over the phone by his brother.

"He lived well. I will like to be like him when I grow up," Dr. Sid adds.

Legendary actor, Justus Esiri, died suddenly Tuesday night, throwing the entertainment industry into mourning, at the graceful age of 71 years. His death was preceded by the death of Lugard Onoyemu and songstress Goldie Harvey.

The president of Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, Miss Ibinabo Fiberesima confirmed the death of Esiri in this statement:

"We regret to announce the passing away of our member and veteran actor, Justus Esiri who died last night [Tuesday]. He was said to have died of complications resulting from diabetes at a hospital in Lagos."

"Declared as one of the strong men of the African film industry, Justus Esiri is widely known for his role in the now rested popular TV series, The Village Headmaster. We commiserate with the family and pray that God gives us the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss."

Meanwhile, reacting to his death, former president of AGN, Mr. Ejike Aseigbu described Justus Esiri as "one of the best actors this country has ever produced."

On his own, Segun Arinze said, "It is so bad. Uncle Justus Esiri was a figure and a great motivator to us. He left a legacy that needs to be sustained. Justus Esiri contributed his quota to the growth of the industry. It is a very bad news, we will miss him."

Monalisa Chinda, who expressed shock when she heard of Esiri's death, said, "I don't really know what to say at the moment. I am totally devastated."

In one of his last interviews, Esiri had lamented his deteriorating health condition, saying, "I had to be rushed abroad. But since I came back, I’ve not been fine-it’s either one sickness or the other. But thank God things will get better."

He was married to Omiete and had six children.