Veteran Nigerian actor, scholar and cultural ambassador, Professor Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80.
Oyewo, whose full name was Gabriel Adekola Olurinola Oyewo, passed away at about 6:30 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at a hospital in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
His death was confirmed by his youngest son, Oluwatobi Oyewo. The news was later made public by actor and philanthropist Kunle Afod, who had remained in contact with the veteran actor following an interview granted in 2025.
Widely respected for successfully combining academic excellence with outstanding stage and screen performances, Oyewo occupied a unique position in Nigeria’s cultural and entertainment landscape. Throughout his career, he earned admiration from leading figures in the film industry, including acclaimed filmmaker Tunde Kelani and veteran actor Peter Fatomilola.
Popularly known to many as Kola Oyewo, the late actor built a reputation as a dedicated thespian, educator, father and grandfather whose influence extended beyond film into academia and cultural preservation.
He featured prominently in several of Tunde Kelani’s celebrated productions, including Koseegbe, Oleku and Saworoide. His portrayal of Oba Lapite in Saworoide remains one of the most memorable performances in Nigerian cinema, earning praise for its depth, dignity and authenticity.
Reflecting on his father’s life, Oluwatobi described him as a man who valued hard work, accountability, responsibility and humility. He recalled that despite his achievements, Oyewo remained deeply humble and actively participated in church activities, including playing the konga drum in the choir.
“I feel proud to say that he was my father, even though he is no longer with us,” Oluwatobi said. “The shoes he left behind are very big ones to fill.”
Beyond acting, Oyewo’s academic journey became an inspiration to many. He initially worked at the Awolowo Varsity Theatre without a university degree until concerns about his employment prompted encouragement from renowned playwright Professor Femi Osofisan and support from his late wife to pursue higher education.
Determined to improve himself, he enrolled at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he studied Dramatic Arts and Yoruba Oral Literature before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts in 1995. In a remarkable twist, he attended the same university as one of his sons, whom he met on campus while the latter was in 200 level and Oyewo was a new undergraduate student.
His pursuit of knowledge continued with a Master’s degree and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Drama from the University of Ibadan, cementing his reputation as both a scholar and practitioner of the arts.
Known for his energetic personality, Oyewo remained active in teaching, acting and daily life well into his later years. However, his health began to decline in 2019 following a diagnosis of an enlarged prostate. Although surgery helped him recover and remain active for several years, his condition worsened towards the end of 2025. He was cared for by his children until his passing.
Paying tribute to the late actor, filmmaker Tunde Kelani described him as a distinguished scholar, actor, teacher and cultural ambassador whose contributions to Nigerian theatre and film would never be forgotten.
“Farewell, Professor Kola Oyewo. Farewell, Oba Lapite,” Kelani said. “Nigeria has lost a remarkable artist. Your legacy will endure in the stories you told and the lives you touched.”
Kunle Afod also mourned the veteran actor, describing him as a true legend whose remarkable talent and immense contributions to the Nigerian theatre and film industry would continue to inspire future generations.
“We lost a true legend,” Afod said. “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.”