LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) — Veteran Nigerian actor and theatre icon Kola Oyewo, celebrated for his role in the classic film Saworoide, has died at the age of 80. His death was announced Friday by fellow actor Kunle Afod, who praised Oyewo’s decades-long contributions to Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.
Born March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Oyewo began his career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group and rose to prominence through Yoruba theatre. He gained continental recognition for his portrayal of Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s most gifted stage performers. Over six decades, he appeared in acclaimed productions including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe and the long-running television series Super Story.
Oyewo also left a lasting mark in academia. 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 influenced generations of actors, playwrights and scholars, bridging the worlds of performance and scholarship in Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
Details of his death have not been disclosed, though he had spoken publicly about health challenges in recent years, including prostate enlargement. His passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian theatre and cinema, but his legacy as an actor, filmmaker and teacher will continue to inspire future generations across Africa and beyond.
