One of Nigeria’s celebrated actors and theatre scholars, Dr Adekola Akangbe Gabriel Oyewo, popularly known as Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80.
News of his passing was announced by his son, Adetoyese Oyewo, who described his father as a man of “love, wisdom, strength and kindness.”
Oyewo was widely recognised as a leading figure in theatre and performing arts, contributing significantly to the development and preservation of Yoruba theatre both on stage, screen, and in the classroom over several decades.
The family has requested prayers and support during the mourning period, while fans and colleagues pay tribute to a man who influenced countless lives through theatre and academia.
Oyewo was born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State. He began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. His first role was as Adejare in “Orogun Adedigba.”
After spending nine years with Oyin Adejobi, he joined the University of Ife theatre, collaborating with the late dramatist Chief Ola Rotimi. Notably, Oyewo played “Odewale” in Rotimi’s “The Gods Are Not To Blame.”
He was widely known for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s play, “The Gods Are Not to Blame,” a role that earned him recognition across the African theatre scene.
During a career that spanned more than six decades, Oyewo featured in several productions, including “Saworoide,” “Sango,” “Koseegbe,” “Super Story” and many Yoruba-language films that contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s movie industry.
Beyond acting, Oyewo earned a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan. In 1996, he joined Obafemi Awolowo University, rising to senior lecturer and later retiring in 2011.
Following retirement, he joined Redeemer’s University and served as the head of the department of dramatic art. Additionally, he worked as a performing arts lecturer at Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State
Through his teaching and mentorship, he helped train and guide generations of actors, playwrights and scholars, leaving a lasting impact on Nigeria’s theatre, film and academic communities.
In 1996, he joined Obafemi Awolowo University, rising to senior lecturer and later retiring in 2011. Following retirement, he joined Redeemer’s University and served as the head of the department of dramatic art. Additionally, he worked as a performing arts lecturer at Elizade University in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State.
In a message celebrating Oyewo’s 80th birthday, President Tinubu describes Oyewo as a national treasure and a worthy ambassador of Yoruba theatre and Nigerian storytelling.
“Oyewo is a veteran thespian and a distinguished cultural icon whose enduring contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s theatre, film, and cultural productions have left an indelible mark on generations of artistes and scholars”, President Tinubu writes.
“From the stage to the screen and the classroom, Oyewo’s work reflects a deep commitment to preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
“His brilliance, discipline, and dedication have not only elevated the standards of performing arts in Nigeria but have also inspired countless young talents to pursue excellence in the creative industry.
“Your remarkable career stands as a testament to the power of art as a tool for education, national identity, and social cohesion.
