Veteran Nigerian actor and theatre icon, Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80, bringing to a close a distinguished career that spanned more than six decades and left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s performing arts industry.
News of his passing was announced on Friday by fellow actor Kunle Afod, who paid tribute to the revered thespian in a post on Instagram.
“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.”
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting journey in 1964 with the legendary Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, where he honed his craft and emerged as one of the leading figures of Yoruba travelling theatre.
Over the years, he built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished stage and screen actors, earning widespread respect for his versatility, commanding stage presence and dedication to the development of indigenous theatre.
Oyewo was perhaps best known for his acclaimed portrayal of Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame, the celebrated adaptation of the Greek tragedy Oedipus Rex by renowned playwright Ola Rotimi.
His interpretation of the tragic king earned him recognition within and beyond Nigeria, cementing his place among Africa’s foremost theatre practitioners.
Beyond acting, Oyewo contributed immensely to theatre education and cultural preservation, mentoring younger generations of performers while championing the growth of Yoruba arts and culture.
His death has triggered an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues, students, fans and cultural stakeholders, many of whom described him as a towering figure whose contributions helped shape modern Nigerian theatre and film.
Though the family had yet to announce details of his burial as of press time, tributes continued to pour in for the actor widely regarded as one of the custodians of Nigeria’s rich theatrical heritage.
Oyewo leaves behind a legacy of excellence, discipline and artistic brilliance that will continue to inspire generations of actors, scholars and lovers of the performing arts.
Here are some of the most notable productions he featured in: The Gods Are Not to Blame, Orogun Adedigba, Kuye, Sango, Koseegbe, Saworoide, O Le Ku, Super Story, Efunsetan Aniwura, Yemoja, Omo University, Ayomi
