By Desire Emmanuel
Veteran Nollywood actor, Chief Kola Oyewo, is dead. He was aged 80.
Announcing his death on Friday, another actor, Kunle 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.”
Also, a member of the House of Representatives from Ibadan, Akin Alabi, paid tribute to the legend.
He wrote: “Sad to hear of the passing of veteran actor, Chief Kola Oyewo. A true icon of Nigerian theatre and cinema, he graced our screens with unforgettable performances in Saworoide as Oba Lapite, The Gods Are Not to Blame, Sango, Koseegbe, and many other classics. He was 80 years old.”
As of the time of this report, his family members are yet to issue a statement over his death.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. He later became one of the most recognised figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian film.
He was widely known for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s play, “The Gods Are Not to Blame,” a role that earned him recognition across the African theatre scene.
During a career that spanned more than six decades, Oyewo featured in several productions, including “Saworoide,” “Sango,” “Koseegbe,” “Super Story” and many Yoruba-language films that contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s movie industry.
Beyond acting, Oyewo was also an academic. He earned a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan and taught at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.
Through his teaching and mentorship, he helped train and guide generations of actors, playwrights and scholars, leaving a lasting impact on Nigeria’s theatre, film and academic communities.
