Nollywood Icon Kola Oyewo Passes Away at 80

Kola Oyewo, a veteran Nollywood actor and professor, died peacefully at the age of 80 on June 12, 2026. Born on March 27, 1946, in Osun State, Nigeria, he began his artistic journey in 1964 and made his professional debut in the autobiographical play "Adejar." Oyewo achieved legendary status for his portrayal of characters in Nigerian theater, notably in the classic tragic masterpiece "Odewale" by Rotimi.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater Arts from Obafemi Awolowo University in 1995, followed by a Master's degree and a PhD in Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1996. He joined the faculty at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he rose to the rank of Senior Lecturer before retiring in September 2011.

He later served as Head of the Department of Dramatic Art at Redeemer's University and lectured at Elizade University. Oyewo's impactful presence in Nollywood included roles in popular television series, making him a vital fixture in the foundation of Nigerian cinema.