Nigeria’s entertainment and cultural community has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor, dramatist, filmmaker, and scholar, Dr. Kola Oyewo.

His son, Dr. Wale Oyewo, confirmed the development to newsmen on Friday’s evening, revealing that the respected thespian passed away approximately two hours earlier at the age of 80.

The late Oyewo was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian performing arts, with a career spanning more than six decades. His death marks the end of an illustrious journey that left an indelible mark on Nollywood, academia, and the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Kola Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the legendary Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before becoming one of the most recognizable faces in Nigerian theatre and film. He earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s celebrated play, The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that cemented his status as a leading figure in African theatre. (Wikipedia⁠)

Beyond the stage, he featured prominently in several notable productions including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe, Super Story, and numerous Yoruba-language films that contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s movie industry. (Wikipedia⁠)

A distinguished academic, Oyewo held a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan and taught at several institutions, including Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, and Elizade University. Through his teaching and mentorship, he helped shape generations of actors, playwrights, and scholars across Nigeria. (Wikipedia⁠)

Only months ago, the veteran actor celebrated his 80th birthday and received tributes from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who described him as a national treasure and a worthy ambassador of Yoruba theatre and Nigerian storytelling. (statehouse.gov.ng⁠)