Veteran Nollywood actress Clarion Chukwurah has paid a touching tribute to the late Kola Oyewo, reflecting on the significant role he played in shaping her career during her formative years in the entertainment industry.
Taking to her Instagram page to mourn the respected actor, Clarion recalled that Oyewo was one of her lecturers while she was an undergraduate in the Department of Dramatic Arts at the then University of Ife. According to her, their relationship later evolved beyond the classroom as they worked together on several notable productions, including the stage project “Oduduwa” and other historical and traditional films and plays.
Expressing gratitude for his contributions to her professional journey, the actress described the late thespian as a rare talent whose impact spanned generations.
“Thank you, sir, for your impact on my career from my early years as an undergraduate of the Department of Dramatic Arts in the then University of Ife, as my lecturer for my Theatre Management course, to working with you on such great projects as ‘Oduduwa’ and many other historical and traditional films and stage plays. I bid you farewell, Sir, with deep respect. Rest well, Uncle Dr Kola Oyewo, quintessential actor across three generations. Good night. Modupe,” she wrote.
Reacting to her tribute, actor Muyiwa Ademola agreed with her sentiments, describing Oyewo as one of the finest individuals he had encountered in the industry.
“He was one of the most amazing people I ever met in the industry,” Ademola stated.
Zoyols News had earlier reported that the veteran actor passed away at the age of 80. Announcing the sad news, actor Kunle Afod described the deceased as a true icon whose immense contributions to Nigeria’s theatre and film landscape would remain unforgettable. He noted that Oyewo’s extraordinary talent and timeless performances would continue to inspire generations of entertainers.
Also mourning the loss, actress Toyin Adegbola, popularly known as Toyin Tomato, celebrated the remarkable life the late actor lived. She said he came, saw and conquered, describing him as an exceptional dancer, lecturer, uncle, father and grandfather.
Toyin expressed gratitude for having had the opportunity to attend his 80th birthday celebration, adding that his absence would be deeply felt by all who knew him.
Only a month before his passing, Kunle Afod had earned praise from colleagues for his consistent support and appreciation of veteran actors. During one of his visits, he spent time with Chief Kola Oyewo and fellow veteran Peter Fatomilola, honouring them for their contributions to the industry.
In the course of that interaction, Oyewo opened up about the health challenges that had affected his career. He disclosed that illness had made it difficult for him to take on major acting roles as he once did. According to him, the condition began with frequent urination, which disrupted his sleep. Following several medical examinations, he was diagnosed with an enlarged prostate.
In a separate development, Clarion Chukwurah recently raised concerns about the growing misuse of social media. The actress lamented what she described as the increasing trend of misinformation, blackmail, witch hunting and the deliberate spread of falsehoods on online platforms in Nigeria.
Addressing those responsible for circulating misleading stories about her, Clarion maintained that her journey and achievements have been sustained not by her own strength but through God’s grace and faithfulness.
The passing of Kola Oyewo has continued to draw tributes from colleagues and admirers, many of whom have acknowledged the enduring legacy he leaves behind as an actor, educator and mentor whose influence transcended generations.
