Tunde Kelani mourns death of Kola Oyewo, extols veteran actor, scholar

Veteran filmmaker Tunde Kelani has paid a heartfelt tribute to renowned theatre scholar and actor Kola Oyewo following his death, describing him as a remarkable artist whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.

In a tribute shared after the passing of the veteran actor, Kelani recalled working closely with Oyewo in some of his acclaimed productions, including Koseegbe, Oleku and Saworoide, where he played the memorable role of Oba Lapite.

Kelani praised Oyewo’s performance as the monarch in Saworoide, noting that the actor brought depth, dignity and humanity to the character, making Oba Lapite one of the film’s most enduring figures.

Reflecting on the film, the filmmaker said the character’s death in the storyline created a challenge for him because he could no longer feature Oyewo in subsequent parts of the narrative, adding that he missed the actor’s presence even then.

“Today, I miss him again. Kola Oyewo belonged to a rare generation that successfully bridged scholarship and performance. He inspired countless students, actors and audiences through his talent, humility and lifelong commitment to learning, culture, theatre and film,” Kelani said.

He described Oyewo as a scholar, actor, teacher, cultural ambassador and colleague whose contributions to the arts left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s creative industry.

Kelani further noted that the late actor’s influence extended beyond the stage and screen, touching the lives of many through his dedication to education, culture and the development of theatre and film in Nigeria.

Concluding his tribute, the filmmaker said Nigeria had lost a remarkable artist, expressing confidence that Oyewo’s legacy would endure through the stories he helped tell and the many lives he impacted during his lifetime.