Veteran Nollywood actor Kola Oyewo dies at 80

Veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker and scholar, Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80.

His death was announced on Friday by actor Kunle Afod in an Instagram post.

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“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.

Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group and later became one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and the Nigerian movie industry.

He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame.

Over a career spanning more than six decades, Oyewo featured in several notable productions, including Saworoide, Sango and Super Story, alongside numerous Yoruba-language films that contributed significantly to the growth of Nollywood.

Beyond acting, he also built a distinguished academic career. Oyewo earned a doctorate degree in Drama from University of Ibadan and lectured at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, students and fans celebrating his contributions to Nigerian theatre, film and academia.