Yoruba Actor Kola Oyewo Passes Away at 80

Veteran Yoruba actor Kola Oyewo has passed away at the age of 80.

His colleague, Kunle Afod, shared the news in a statement on his Instagram page on Friday.

The actor’s son, Adetoyese Oyewo, also announced the news on his Facebook page, saying his father died on Friday.

He wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved father. Adekola Akangbe Gabriel Oyewo. He was a wonderful man whose love, wisdom, strength, and kindness touched the lives of many. While we grieve this great loss, we are grateful to God for the gift of his life, the memories we shared, and the legacy he leaves behind.

“His impact will forever remain in our hearts and in the lives of everyone who knew him. I kindly ask for your prayers, comfort, and support for my family during this difficult time as we mourn his transition and celebrate the remarkable life he lived.”

The family of the late actor, in a statement signed by Adewale Oyewo, confirmed that he died after a short illness.

He said Oyewo, known for his role in “Saworoide”, lived a life full of purpose, faith, dedication, and service.

“Chief(Dr) Gabriel Adekola Oyewo lived a life of purpose, faith, dedication, and service. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, and friend whose wisdom, kindness, and exemplary character positively influenced the lives of many. His legacy of integrity, hard work, and devotion to family and community will continue to inspire generations to come.

“As we give thanks to God for the gift of his life and the many blessings he bestowed upon us through him, we celebrate the remarkable impact he made during his eighty years on earth. Though he will be greatly missed, we are comforted by the memories, values, and enduring legacy he leaves behind,” the statement read.

The family expressed gratitude to well-wishers for their prayers, support, and goodwill during this time and wished the late actor eternal rest.

Kola Oyewo was born on 27 March 1946 in Oba Ile, Osun State.

He studied at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he earned certificates in dramatic arts and Yoruba oral literature, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts in 1995.

He then attended the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a Master of Arts and a doctorate in Drama.

He started his acting career in 1964 after joining the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, taking on his first role as Adejare in Orogun Adedigba.

Oyewo was best known for his role as “Odewale” in “The Gods Are Not to Blame”, a play by Ola Rotimi.

In 1996, he joined Obafemi Awolowo University, eventually becoming a senior lecturer before retiring in September 2011.

After retiring, he worked at Redeemer’s University as the head of the Department of Dramatic Arts.

He later joined Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, as a lecturer in performing arts.

Some of the films he appeared in include “O Le Ku”, “Efunsetan Aniwura”, “Yemoja”, “Omo University”, “Ayomi”, “Ewon Laafin”, “Oba Bi Olorun”, among others.

Kola Oyewo’s passing follows the recent deaths of actor and comedian Adeshina “Janmole” Oshin and Fesogboye Oyewole.