The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the shocking death of film executive, director, and talent manager, Vic Matt, whose real name was Victor Tobechukwu Okoli.
Vic Matt, who also served as the manager and close confidant of Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Bright, was reportedly abducted on Friday in Enugu. According to reports, he was kidnapped opposite Ntachi Osa, a popular food spot in the state, and days later confirmed dead after being shot.
The devastating news was first broken by fellow filmmaker, Ben Cassie, who took to Instagram to pen a heartfelt tribute in honor of her late colleague. In her moving message, she described Vic Matt as a man of rare integrity in an industry often associated with betrayal and unhealthy competition.
She wrote:
“It is hard for some of us to see those who genuinely wish us well. You always dropped words of encouragement even when I was most silent. In an industry of snakes and scorpions. You stood different. All you wanted was to make good films. You were a cool, calm and intelligent one. To be kidnapped and killed is a very heart wrenching way to leave this earth. For all the times you made me laugh and looked out for me, thank you 🙏.”
Cassie further expressed her pain over the toxic environment in the industry, hinting at her own struggles and betrayals, before bidding Vic Matt an emotional farewell:
“NB: If you think I have something you desperately need, tell me directly or indirectly, I will stay far from it or hand it over to you. Chukwu ga ewetalu m ozo. Life is no competition. Being poisoned twice and unable to walk for a while is enough, you can all stop at that. I have no strength to fight anyone, I just want to shoot good films walahi. I’m tired. We can all live and prosper. Goodnight Vic.”
Her words have since resonated deeply across social media, where colleagues, fans, and well-wishers have flooded timelines with tributes. Many described Vic Matt as a passionate creative who dedicated his life to supporting young talents and pushing for excellence in Nollywood.
His untimely death has once again raised concerns about insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the Southeast, where cases of kidnapping and violent crimes have continued to instill fear in residents and creatives alike.
As the entertainment industry reels from this loss, tributes continue to pour in for Vic Matt, who is remembered not only as a manager and filmmaker but also as a loyal friend, mentor, and visionary gone too soon.
