Veteran Nollywood actor and academic, Professor Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80.
His passing was confirmed on Friday by his colleague, Kunle Afod, as well as a separate announcement by his son, Adetoyese Oyewo.
Afod described the late actor as a legend whose remarkable talent and immense contributions to the Nigerian theatre and film industry would continue to inspire future generations.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his professional acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. He later transitioned to the University of Ife Theatre, where he collaborated with the late dramatist Chief Ola Rotimi. He gained widespread recognition across the African theatre scene for his portrayal of Odewale in Rotimi’s renowned play, The Gods Are Not to Blame.
In addition to his extensive career in Yoruba theatre and mainstream Nigerian cinema, Oyewo was a distinguished scholar. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), followed by a master’s degree and a doctorate from the University of Ibadan.
He served as a senior lecturer at OAU until his retirement in 2011, and subsequently taught at Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.
