The Nigerian entertainment industry has been hit by another devastating wave of grief following the passing of veteran actor Kola Oyewo, who died at the age of 80. The heartbreaking news has triggered a flood of tributes from colleagues and fans across the country, all mourning the departure of a man widely regarded as a pillar of African cinema and theatre.
Actor Kunle Afod broke the news to the public, describing Oyewo as a true legend who has finally taken his final bow. In an emotional tribute, Afod noted that the veteran’s remarkable talent, timeless performances, and immense contributions to the Nigerian film industry would never be forgotten, adding that his rich legacy would continue to inspire generations of filmmakers.
The shock of his passing reverberated quickly through the creative community. Prominent figures including Kiekie, Kevin Ikeduba, Aisha Lawal, and Jamiu Azeez took to social media to express their sorrow. Kiekie affectionately referred to the late actor as her favorite and bade him a peaceful night, while others like Bimbo Akisanya and Funmi Awelewa expressed deep shock and offered prayers for his soul. Ironically, just a month prior to this tragedy, Kunle Afod had been widely praised by fans and colleagues for visiting both Kola Oyewo and fellow veteran Peter Fatomilola at their residences to pay his respects and celebrate their living legacies.
This latest loss deepens a dark cloud that has hung heavily over the Nigerian entertainment landscape recently. Earlier this month, the Yoruba movie sector was plunged into sudden mourning when actor Adeshina Okiki tragically lost his life in a fatal car accident. Fellow actor Akin Olaiya shared the devastating news along with footage from the crash site, confirming that Okiki has since been laid to rest in his hometown of Okeho, Oyo State, in accordance with Islamic rites.
The industry has barely had time to heal from a succession of painful exits over the past few months. In May, the internet was thrown into a state of disbelief following the death of popular actor Alex Ekubo at the age of 40. According to a heartbreaking statement released by his family, Ekubo passed away at Evercare Hospital after a brief but courageous battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer. Just weeks before that, in April, the Actors Guild of Nigeria confirmed the sudden passing of actor and producer Solomon Akiyesi, who died in his sleep in Abuja.
The early months of the year were equally unkind to the creative arts. February saw the loss of beloved Yoruba actress Aunty Ajara after a long illness, coming right on the heels of the sudden death of actress Allwell Ademola, who suffered a fatal heart attack at her residence.
The music ministry has not been spared from this season of grief either. In March, twin gospel singer Taiwo Adegbodu passed away unexpectedly in the middle of the night. This followed the January passing of renowned gospel evangelist Bunmi Akinaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, who succumbed to a prolonged illness that began the previous year. As the curtains fall on these extraordinary talents, the Nigerian creative community faces the daunting task of mourning its icons while keeping their invaluable contributions alive.
