Filmmaker Tunde Kelani pays emotional tribute to late veteran Actor Kola Oyewo
Veteran filmmaker and playwright Tunde Kelani has paid an emotional tribute to late actor and academic Kola Oyewo, describing him as an exceptional talent whose contributions to Nigeria’s theatre and film industry will continue to resonate for generations.
In a tribute titled “Farewell, Professor Kola Oyewo, Farewell, Oba Lapite,” Kelani expressed sadness over the death of the veteran thespian, with whom he collaborated on several landmark productions, including Saworoide, Oleku and Koseegbe.
Reflecting on Oyewo’s performance as Oba Lapite in the classic political satire Saworoide, Kelani said the late actor brought remarkable depth and authenticity to the role, making the character one of the most memorable figures in the film.
According to the filmmaker, the storyline of the movie made it impossible to reintroduce the character after his execution by Lagata, a development he said left a lasting void.
“Once he was publicly executed by Lagata, I could not bring Kola Oyewo back into the narrative. I missed him then. Today, I miss him again,” Kelani wrote.
He also praised Oyewo for successfully combining academic excellence with artistic brilliance, noting that he served as a bridge between scholarship and performance throughout his distinguished career.
Kelani said the late professor inspired countless students, actors and audiences through his dedication to education, culture, theatre and filmmaking.
“Kola Oyewo belonged to a rare generation that successfully bridged scholarship and performance. He inspired countless students, actors and audiences through his talent, humility and lifelong commitment to learning, culture, theatre and film,” he said.
News of Oyewo’s death was announced on Friday by actor Kunle Afod, who shared the development on Instagram and paid tribute to the veteran entertainer’s impact on the Nigerian creative industry.
Oyewo died at the age of 80 after a career that spanned more than six decades. While the cause of death had not been officially disclosed as of the time of filing this report, the actor had earlier revealed that he was battling prostate enlargement, a condition he said affected his ability to take on acting roles.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Oyewo began his acting journey in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group.
He later rose to prominence as one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian cinema.
He earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that cemented his reputation across Africa’s theatre landscape.
Beyond his achievements on stage and screen, Oyewo built an impressive academic career. He obtained a doctorate in Drama from the University of Ibadan and lectured at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.
Through his work as an educator, mentor and performer, Oyewo shaped the careers of numerous actors, playwrights and scholars, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s theatre, film and academic communities.
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