Six-decade career in theatre and film honoured as Nollywood grieves loss of icon who shaped Nigerian drama
The Nigerian theatre and film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of Dr. Kola Oyewo, a legendary actor, dramatist, filmmaker and academic who passed away at the age of 80 following a prolonged battle with prostate enlargement.
His death was announced on Friday, 12 June 2026, through an Instagram post by fellow actor Kunle Afod.
“Tonight, we lost a true legend. Kola Oyewo has taken his final bow,” Afod wrote in his tribute. “His remarkable talent, timeless performances, and immense contributions to the Nigerian theatre and film industry will never be forgotten. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
The announcement triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, students and fans across Nigeria’s creative industry, many of whom described his passing as the end of an era in Yoruba theatre and Nollywood storytelling. The veteran’s death concluded a career spanning more than six decades of contributions to Nigerian culture and academia.
Born on 27 March 1946 in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 when he joined the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, one of Nigeria’s pioneering theatrical ensembles. He rose to prominence for his iconic portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s celebrated play “The Gods Are Not to Blame,” a performance widely regarded as one of the defining interpretations in African theatre history.
Kola Oyewo’s theatrical and cinematic excellence
Over his extensive career, Oyewo featured in numerous landmark productions including “Saworoide,” “Sango,” “Koseegbe” and “Super Story,” as well as countless Yoruba-language films that helped shape the evolution of Nigeria’s indigenous film industry. His body of work established him as one of the most respected and influential figures in Nigerian theatre and cinema.
Beyond his achievements on stage and screen, Oyewo’s legacy extended into academic and scholarly realms. He earned a doctorate in Drama from the University of Ibadan and lectured at several institutions including Obafemi Awolowo University, where he taught from 1996 until his retirement in 2011, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University. Through his teaching and mentorship, he trained and inspired generations of actors, playwrights and scholars.
Kola Oyewo’s health challenges
In April 2026, just two months before his death, Oyewo had publicly disclosed his battle with prostate enlargement, describing how the condition had affected his career and limited the roles he could accept. During a visit by actor Kunle Afod, the veteran candidly discussed the physical and professional impact of the illness.
“Before now, I could go from one location to another and play any role, but the illness has laid me back. I can no longer play certain roles except for some minor roles,” Oyewo said. “I thank God because I’m getting better now. You can’t go through some kind of sickness and go back to how you’ve been before, but I thank God.”
The actor detailed how the condition caused him to experience sleepless nights and frequent urination, among other debilitating symptoms that forced him to step back from demanding film and theatre roles. Despite his health struggles, Oyewo maintained his characteristic gratitude and philosophical outlook on life.
“There are so many people of my age that are still stronger than I am, but I thank God for preserving my life,” he reflected during the April interview.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), the medical term for enlarged prostate, is a common age-related condition affecting men over 50, caused by natural ageing and hormonal changes. The condition causes pressure on the urethra, resulting in urinary difficulties and other complications that can significantly impact quality of life.
Oyewo’s contributions to Nigerian culture were multifaceted and profound. As a performer, he embodied complex characters that challenged audiences and elevated theatrical discourse across Africa. As an academic, he passed his knowledge and artistic vision to younger generations. As a cultural icon, he represented the best of Nigerian dramatic tradition and the possibilities of sustained artistic excellence across multiple creative disciplines. May his soul rest in peace.
