Details emerge on how Nollywood actress, Monalisa Stephen died

Details have emerged on how Monalisa Stephen, a Nigerian filmmaker popularly known as Gabacci, died.

The news of her death was confirmed on Wednesday by Seun Oloketuyi, founder of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards.

According to Oloketuyi, Monalisa passed away on Tuesday in Lagos due to complications arising from low blood sugar and internal bleeding.

Her family and management have yet to release an official statement concerning her passing or the funeral arrangements.

Gabacci was a dynamic presence in Nigeria’s entertainment scene. Over her decade-long career, she thrived as a content creator, fashion designer, and filmmaker.

She was best known for producing Fatabulous, an award-winning film that gained international acclaim at the Saskatchewan International Film Festival in Canada, winning awards for Best Cinematography and Best Actress.

Beyond the screen, Monalisa founded the LYF Movement — a support network for women and individuals grappling with depression, self-esteem issues, and body image struggles.

A staunch mental health advocate, she once described herself as “a firm believer in making positive impacts for the world to be a better place.”

In 2022, Monalisa opened up about contemplating suicide after enduring body-shaming at a public event.

“These moments before my departure, I feel more clarity than I have ever felt, finally, I will be free. I will be free from the voices, from the pains, and from you,” she had written.

“I can’t stand betrayals. I trust too much and too quickly. This is not what I want but I can’t help it, I am just too weak. So I quit.”