JUST IN: 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 passing was announced on Friday via Instagram by fellow actor Kunle Afod.

“Tonight, we lost a true legend. Kola Oyewo has taken his final bow,” Afod wrote.

“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.”

In April, the late actor had opened up about his struggle with prostate enlargement, explaining how the condition had slowed him down and limited the roles he could take.

“Before now, I could be here and there and play any role, but the sickness laid me back. I can’t play some roles anymore. Except for some minor roles. Well, thank God I am okay now. You can’t go through some kind of sickness and go back to how you’ve been before, but I thank God,” he had said.

Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group.

He went on to become one of the most celebrated figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian cinema, earning widespread acclaim for his role as Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play, The Gods Are Not to Blame.

Over a career spanning more than six decades, Oyewo featured in numerous productions, including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe, Super Story, and several Yoruba-language films that helped shape Nigeria’s film industry.

Beyond the stage and screen, Oyewo was a respected academic. He earned a doctorate 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 trai.ned and inspired generations of actors, playwrights, and scholars, leaving an enduring legacy across Nigeria’s theatre, film, and academic communities