Veteran Nollywood actor, scholar, and cultural icon Professor Kola Oyewo delivered a prophetic message to his children just hours before passing away at the age of 80, leaving the Nollywood industry and his family in profound grief.
In an emotional interview with Wale Akinselure, his youngest son, Oluwatobi Oyewo, revealed the legendary actor’s final moments were filled with parables and a deep sense of readiness. On Friday, June 12, 2026, at about 6:30pm, Kola Oyewo passed on peacefully after a prolonged battle with health complications.
“He kept telling my brother that it was sad that he would be leaving behind such good children… He responded that, yes, he was going home.”
While his children thought he referred to returning to Ife, the veteran was clearly speaking about his transition to the afterlife. He repeatedly mentioned his late wife, Aduke, saying “Aduke, mo ti se tan o (Aduke, I am now ready).”
Oluwatobi revealed that Kola Oyewo had been managing an enlarged prostate since his diagnosis in 2019. He said his father underwent a successful first surgery that sustained him for years, which allowed him to remain active and even drive himself around. Oluwatobi added that his father’s condition deteriorated towards the end of 2025, making everyday tasks difficult. He explained that due to his father’s advanced age, doctors described a potential second surgery as a risky 50-50 situation, and that the actor chose not to proceed.
A pioneer of Yoruba theatre and a distinguished scholar, Professor Kola Oyewo built an extraordinary career spanning over six decades. He was renowned for iconic roles such as Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame and the tyrannical Oba Lapite in Tunde Kelani’s Saworoide. He also served as a lecturer and pioneer Head of the Drama Department at Obafemi Awolowo University, mentoring generations of artistes.
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His son described him as a man defined by hard work, responsibility, and humility. Even as a respected professor, he played the konga drum in his church choir. He instilled strong cultural values in his children, insisting on speaking only Yoruba at home and giving traditional names to all family members.
Kola Oyewo lived a fulfilled life, rising from humble beginnings in Osun State to national prominence through talent, discipline, and dedication. His children, two of whom are involved in acting and theatre, continue to carry forward aspects of his rich legacy.