Nollywood and the Yoruba cultural world are in deep mourning following the passing of legendary actor, theatre scholar, and cultural icon, Pa Kola Oyewo, who died at the age of 80 on June 12, 2026.
Read Kola Oyewo Dies at 80 After Illustrious Career
The veteran thespian, renowned for iconic roles such as Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame and the tyrannical Oba Lapite in Saworoide, has been celebrated as a pride of Yorubaland who brought immense honour to Nigerian theatre and film.
Popular actress Toyin Adegbola, fondly known as Toyin Tomato, penned a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging the late actor’s legendary status. While accepting that death is inevitable and no one can question God’s will, she wrote:
“You came, saw and conquered. You will be greatly missed.”
Popular content creator and actor Enioluwa also joined the outpouring of grief with an emotional tribute, remembering Oyewo’s remarkable contributions and the indelible mark he left on the industry and younger generations.
“Prof. Kola Oyewo taught me from 100 Level through 400 Level. He was an exceptional lecturer. What an incredible man. Thank you for being an outstanding teacher, mentor, and Father.”
The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, described the late actor as a distinguished scholar and cultural ambassador who dedicated his life to promoting Yoruba heritage.
“Pa Kola Oyewo was a pride of Yorubaland… Through his talent, wisdom and commitment to excellence, he brought honour not only to Ile-Ife and Osun State but to the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.”
The Ooni highlighted Oyewo’s deep connection to Ile-Ife, where he spent much of his life contributing to cultural and intellectual development, and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Kola Oyewo began his acting journey in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. He later became a respected lecturer and pioneer Head of the Drama Department at Obafemi Awolowo University, mentoring countless talents while maintaining a sterling reputation for integrity and self-reliance.