Veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker and scholar, Dr Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80.
His death was announced on Friday by actor Kunle Afod in an Instagram post.
“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 went on to become one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and the Nigerian film 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 notable productions including Saworoide, Sango, Super Story and several Yoruba-language films that contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s movie industry.
Aside from acting, Oyewo built a distinguished academic career. He earned a doctorate degree in Drama from University of Ibadan and lectured at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.
