Theatre icon, actor and scholar, Kola Oyewo, dies at 80 after decades shaping Nigerian performing arts.

News of his passing was announced on Friday in an Instagram post by fellow actor Kunle Afodunrin popularly called Kunle Afod.

He wrote, “Tonight, we lost a true legend. Kola Oyewo has taken his final bow. His remarkable talent, timeless performances and immense contributions to the Nigerian theatre and film industry will never be forgotten. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest well sir. Your works live.”

The late Oyewo, who started his career with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, was a lecturer of Theatre Arts at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State. He starred in several films which included “Orogun Adedigba,” “The God’s Are Not to Blame, “Sango,” among many others.

He earned a bachelor’s degree at OAU and completed a master’s degree and PhD at the University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State. Later years taught at the Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State and Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State.

His career spanned acting, teaching and cultural advocacy, making him a prominent voice in the growth of theatre arts in Nigeria.