10 things you should know about late veteran actor, Kola Oyewo

Veteran Nigerian actor, dramatist and scholar Kola Oyewo passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 80.

Widely celebrated for his contributions to theatre, film and academia, Oyewo left behind a legacy that spanned more than six decades.

From his iconic role in The Gods Are Not to Blame to his years as a university lecturer, he played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s performing arts industry.

Here are 10 things to know about the late Kola Oyewo:

1. Kola Oyewo was born on March 27, 1946, in Oba Ile, a town in Osun State, South-West Nigeria.

2. He began his professional acting career in 1964 when he joined the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group.

3. His first acting role was Adejare in Orogun Adedigba, a production based on Oyin Adejobi’s autobiography.

4. After spending nine years with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, he joined the University of Ife Theatre, where he worked alongside renowned playwright Ola Rotimi.

5. Oyewo became famous for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play, The Gods Are Not to Blame.

6. He studied at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he earned certificates in Dramatic Arts and Yoruba Oral Literature before obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts in 1995.

7. He later obtained both a Master’s degree and a PhD in Drama from the University of Ibadan.

8. In 1996, he joined the academic staff of Obafemi Awolowo University and rose to the rank of Senior Lecturer before retiring in 2011.

9. Following his retirement, he continued teaching at Redeemer’s University as Head of the Department of Dramatic Arts and later lectured at Elizade University.

10. Throughout his career, he featured in several notable productions, including Sango, Saworoide, Koseegbe, O Le Ku, Efunsetan Aniwura, Yemoja, Omo University, Ayomi, Ofeefe – Mirage, Oba Bi Olorun, Oosa Aafin, Olukoti and Ogeere.

His death was announced by actor Kunle Afod, who described him as a true legend whose contributions to Nigerian theatre and film will never be forgotten.