Veteran Nollywood Icon Kola Oyewo Dies at 80
Veteran Nollywood actor and theatre scholar, Kola Oyewo, has passed away at the age of 80.
The revered actor reportedly died on Friday, with his son, Dr. Wale Oyewo, confirming the development to journalists shortly after his passing.
Nollywood actor Kunle Afod also announced the sad news on his Instagram page, paying tribute to the late screen legend.
“Kola Oyewo has taken his final bow. His remarkable talent, timeless performances, and immense contributions to the Nigerian theatre and film industry will never be forgotten. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest well, sir. Your work lives on,” Afod wrote.
News of Oyewo’s death has thrown the Nigerian film industry and the wider cultural community into mourning, as tributes continue to pour in for the accomplished actor, playwright, and educator.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the renowned Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. He later rose to prominence as one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in theatre and film.
He gained widespread recognition for his memorable portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play, The Gods Are Not to Blame, a performance that firmly established him as a leading voice in African theatre.
Beyond the stage, Oyewo featured in several acclaimed productions, including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe, Super Story, and numerous Yoruba-language films that played significant roles in the development of Nigeria’s movie industry.
A distinguished academic, Oyewo earned a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan.
He lectured at institutions such as Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, and Elizade University, mentoring generations of actors, playwrights, and scholars.
Only a few months ago, the late actor marked his 80th birthday and received glowing tributes, including one from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who described him as a national treasure and a worthy ambassador of Yoruba theatre and Nigerian storytelling.
