Veteran Nollywood Actor Kola Oyewo Dies At 80

Veteran Nollywood actor and theatre scholar Kola Oyewo has died at the age of 80, throwing Nigeria’s film and theatre community into mourning.

Daily Post reported that his son, Adetoyese Oyewo, announced the death in a message shared on Facebook, describing his father as a man whose life reflected love, wisdom, strength and kindness. PM News also reported that fellow actor Kunle Afod paid tribute to Oyewo, saying his talent and contributions to Nigerian theatre and film would not be forgotten.

Oyewo was widely respected as one of the major figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian cinema. Born in Oba-Ile, Osun State, he began his performing career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, where he developed the stagecraft that later made him a household name.

Across decades of acting, teaching and cultural work, he became known for his commanding presence and his commitment to preserving Yoruba theatre. One of his best-known roles was Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play The Gods Are Not to Blame.

His work cut across stage, screen and academia, making him both a performer and a teacher of the arts. Tributes from colleagues and fans have described him as a cultural figure whose influence will continue through the actors, students and audiences he inspired.

The family has asked for prayers and support as they mourn while also celebrating a life devoted to service, learning and the arts.

Sources: Daily Post; PM News; Vanguard