Kannywood actor Umar Ascon, widely known for his role as 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 (AKTH) after a prolonged illness.

A Kannywood producer and neighbour of the deceased, Abubakar Yahaya Matinko, confirmed the development.

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 joining the film industry, Ascon was a businessman at Hotoro Depot in Kano.

He later rose to prominence in Kannywood through his role in Garwashi and appearances in other Hausa films such as Wata Shida and Manyan Mata.

His funeral prayer was held at the Al-Masjlisul Islami Mosque along Hotoro Ring Road near Gade-Gade Filling Station, in accordance with Islamic rites.