Veteran Nigerian actor, theatre practitioner and scholar, Professor Adekola Akangbe Gabriel Oyewo, popularly known as Professor Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80.
The revered actor’s passing was announced on Friday by his son, Adetoyese Oyewo, in a heartfelt message shared on Facebook.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved father,” Adetoyese wrote, describing the late professor as a man whose life was defined by “love, wisdom, strength and kindness.”
While expressing the family’s deep sorrow, he said they remained grateful for the remarkable life Professor Oyewo lived and the countless lives he touched through his work and personal relationships.
According to him, the late actor’s legacy will continue to live on through the memories shared by family members, friends, colleagues, students and admirers who were inspired by his contributions to society.
He also appealed for prayers and support for the family as they mourn the loss of a man devoted to service, education and the arts.
Professor Oyewo was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished figures in theatre and performing arts. Over a career that spanned several decades, he earned acclaim as an actor, educator and cultural advocate, making significant contributions to the growth and preservation of Yoruba theatre.
Through his work on stage, screen and in academia, he played a pivotal role in promoting Nigerian culture and mentoring generations of theatre practitioners and scholars.
His contributions to the development of theatre arts in Nigeria earned him widespread respect within both the entertainment and academic communities, where he remained a revered voice until his passing.
As news of his death spread, tributes began pouring in from colleagues, former students and admirers, many of whom remembered him for his immense talent, scholarship and dedication to the advancement of Nigerian arts and culture.
Details of his funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.
He also served as Deputy Editor at Sahara Reporters Sports and worked as Content Manager for the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), contributing significantly to sports journalism and digital content development in Nigeria.
Known for his strong storytelling ability and editorial expertise, Olayinka Olawole has covered a wide range of subjects, while also building a reputation in digital storytelling, audience engagement, and content optimisation for online and media platforms.
