Nollywood is in grief as Veteran Yoruba actor and theatre scholar, Chief (Prof) Gabriel Adekola Oyewo, the Balogun of Oba‑Ile, has died at the age of 80.
The actor was born on 27 March 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, died on Friday after a prolonged illness, his family announced in a statement.
The Oyewo family thanked God for his remarkable journey, describing him as a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, and friend whose wisdom and integrity left a lasting impact.
The family noted that his devotion to God and exemplary character will continue to inspire future generations.
Oyewo began acting in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group and rose to prominence after he portrayed Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play “The Gods Are Not to Blame”.
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He later featured in iconic productions such as Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe, and the popular television series Super Story.
Beyond acting, Oyewo built a distinguished academic career.
He earned a PhD in Drama from the University of Ibadan. He lectured at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, Elizade University, and Ekiti State University, where he served as Head of Theatre and Media Arts. Colleagues celebrated him for mentoring generations of actors and scholars.
Personal Life
Oyewo married twice. His first marriage, in 1967, produced five sons, though one predeceased him. After his first wife passed away, he remarried in 1980, but his second wife died in October 2020.
He chose not to remarry thereafter and devoted his later years to his children, grandchildren, and academic work.
Family Statement
The family emphasised that while they grieve, they remain grateful for the long, impactful life he lived.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved father,” his son Adetoyese Oyewo wrote, describing him as a man of “love, wisdom, strength, and kindness.”
They appealed for prayers and support during this period, choosing to celebrate a life dedicated to service, learning, and the arts.
