Veteran Yoruba actor Ezekiel Atilola, widely known as Tombolo, has opened up about his ongoing financial hardships in a heartfelt interview shared by colleague Kunle Afod. The seasoned thespian, who has spent decades in the industry, now relies on commercial motorcycle riding to support his family while still holding onto dreams of producing his own film.
Atilola began his theatre journey in 1984 and became recognizable through roles in several Yoruba productions, including the popular film that earned him his nickname. Despite that long dedication, he has never produced a movie of his own. He expressed a deep desire to change that if he can secure the necessary financial backing.
Speaking candidly, Atilola described the weight of family responsibilities and the limited support available to him.
“I have faith in theatre and I really like theatre. There is no one to help me. I am the only boy my mother gave birth to, and I have three elder sisters. I am the only one people really know, and there is no money with them either,” he said.
The actor revealed that he recently sold his previous motorcycle to cover his daughter’s education fees at a polytechnic. The bike he currently rides was obtained on installment. He pays N30,000 every week toward the N1.5 million cost and has been making those payments since January. The okada work remains his primary means of providing for himself and his household.
Kunle Afod used the conversation to appeal directly to the public for assistance. He asked Atilola to share his account details so that well-wishers could contribute and help ease the veteran’s burden.
Atilola first drew widespread attention in 2023 when videos of him riding a commercial motorcycle circulated online, prompting earlier calls for support from figures such as singer Jaywon.
His story has once again highlighted the difficult realities many veteran performers face after years of contributing to Nollywood.