The Nigerian creative and academic communities are in mourning following the death of veteran actor, filmmaker, and scholar Dr. Kola Oyewo, who passed away on 12 June 2026 at the age of 80. His death was confirmed by his family and fellow entertainers, who paid tribute to his legendary contributions to the arts.
Born on 27 March 1946 in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Dr. Oyewo was a towering figure in Nigerian storytelling and theatre. He grew up in a royal farming family and spent his formative years in the palace under the care of his uncle, who was the reigning king at the time. His academic journey took him to Obafemi Awolowo University, where he earned a certificate in dramatic arts and Yoruba oral literature, followed by a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts in 1995. He later proceeded to the University of Ibadan, obtaining both a Master's degree and a PhD in Drama.
Dr. Oyewo began his professional acting career in 1964 when he joined the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group after responding to a recruitment poster. He spent nine years with the troupe before joining the University of Ife Theatre, where he worked closely with the late Professor Ola Rotimi. He gained widespread acclaim for his iconic portrayal of 'Odewale' in the classic play The Gods Are Not to Blame.
Beyond the stage, Dr. Oyewo made a lasting impact in academia. He joined the staff of Obafemi Awolowo University in 1996, rising to the rank of senior lecturer before retiring in 2011. He later taught at Redeemer's University and Elizade University in Ondo State. Colleagues and students remember him as a passionate mentor and a strong advocate for the preservation of Yoruba culture.
His filmography includes several acclaimed productions that helped shape Nollywood, including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe, O Le Ku, Efunsetan Aniwura, and Super Story. His work bridging traditional travelling theatre and modern cinema earned him immense respect across generations of practitioners and fans.
As tributes continue to pour in, he has been widely described as a legend of Nigerian theatre and film. His son, Adetoyese Oyewo, described him as a man whose life was defined by 'love, wisdom, strength, and kindness.' Dr. Oyewo is survived by his children and family members, who continue to honour the legacy of a man who often described himself as a servant of the arts. His passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian theatre, but his influence will endure through generations of actors, scholars, and students he mentored.
