Nigeria’s entertainment industry and academic community have been plunged into mourning following the death of veteran actor, theatre scholar, and cultural icon, Professor Adekola Akangbe Gabriel Oyewo, popularly known as Professor Kola Oyewo.
The respected actor and academic passed away at the age of 80.
News of his death was announced on Friday by his son, Adetoyese Oyewo, in a heartfelt Facebook post paying tribute to the life and legacy of his father.
Expressing his grief, Adetoyese described the late professor as a man whose life was defined by love, wisdom, strength, and kindness.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved father,” he wrote.
While acknowledging the family’s pain, he said they remained grateful for the impactful life Professor Oyewo lived and the countless lives he touched throughout his distinguished career.
According to him, the late actor’s influence and legacy would continue to live on through family members, friends, colleagues, students, and admirers who benefited from his knowledge, mentorship, and artistic contributions.
He also appealed for prayers and support for the family during this difficult period, noting that they were celebrating a life devoted to service, education, culture, and the arts.
Professor Oyewo was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in theatre and performing arts. Over the course of several decades, he made significant contributions to the growth and preservation of Yoruba theatre while promoting Nigerian culture through his work as an actor, educator, and cultural advocate.
His illustrious career spanned the stage, screen, and classroom, earning him recognition as both a celebrated performer and a distinguished academic whose contributions helped shape the development of theatre arts in Nigeria.
His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s cultural and educational landscape.
