JUST IN: VETERAN NOLLYWOOD ACTOR KOLA OYEWO DIES AT 80
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By ‘Sefiu Ajape
Veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker, and scholar, Dr. Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80.
His death was announced on Friday by actor Kunle Afod in a post shared on Instagram.
Afod wrote: “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.
“🕊️ It’s a wrap.”
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before rising to become one of the most prominent figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian cinema.
He was widely celebrated for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s play, “The Gods Are Not to Blame,” a role that brought him continental recognition within African theatre.
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Oyewo featured in several productions, including “Saworoide,” “Sango,” “Koseegbe,” “Super Story,” and numerous Yoruba-language films that helped shape Nigeria’s film industry.
Beyond acting, he was also an academic who earned a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan and taught at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, and Elizade University.
Through teaching and mentorship, he trained and influenced generations of actors, playwrights, and scholars, leaving a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s theatre, film, and academic sectors.
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