Kannywood actor Umar Ascon, popularly recognised for portraying Alhaji Lado Mai Barkono in the long-running television series Garwashi, has died.
He reportedly passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Malam Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital after a prolonged illness.
A Kannywood producer and neighbour of the late actor, Abubakar Yahaya Matinko, confirmed the incident.
Matinko said that although Ascon spent a relatively short time in the film industry, he quickly gained recognition and popularity among viewers.
The late actor is survived by his pregnant wife and two daughters.
Before venturing into acting, Ascon was engaged in business at Hotoro Depot in Kano.
He later became widely known in the Kannywood industry through his role in Garwashi and appearances in other Hausa movies including Wata Shida and Manyan Mata.
His funeral prayer was held at the Al‑Masjlisul Islami Mosque in line with Islamic rites.