…By Larry John for TDPel Media. Renowned Nigerian actress Iyabo Oko, born Odukanmi Kudirat on November 15, 1960, passed away at the age of 62.
Known for her role as Iyabo Oko in the film “Oko,” she was a prominent figure in the Nigerian film industry, particularly in Yoruba films.
Some of her notable works include “Adesoro,” “Idunnu Okan,” “Mayowa,” “Abo,” and “Okobo Dimeji.”
Family and Personal Life
Iyabo Oko was survived by her three children, including her daughters Bisi Aisha, who serves in the Nigerian military, and Oduola Olamide.
Sadly, her first son, Tajudeen Akanmu, passed away in 2008 after a brief illness.
Iyabo Oko remained private about her husband’s identity, and she had lost him a few years prior to her death.
Career and Achievements
Iyabo Oko started her acting career at a young age, driven by her passion for the craft.
Despite resistance from her father, she joined Nollywood in 1973 under the Eda Onileola Theatre Troupe.
She gained recognition through her work with Oga Bello’s Theatre Group, with the film “Oko” propelling her into the limelight and earning her the nickname “Iyabo Oko.”
She took a break from acting in 2018 due to health issues and expressed plans to venture into business.
Health Challenges and Resilience
In 2016, Iyabo Oko faced an undisclosed illness but managed to recover.
In 2018, she traveled abroad for further medical treatment with the assistance of her son.
Upon her return to Nigeria, she revealed medical advice to reduce stress and announced a hiatus from the film industry.
In subsequent years, there were rumors of her death, including an incident in January 2021, when she was reported dead but later revived.
She was diagnosed with an Ischaemic Stroke.
Political Engagement and Belongings
Iyabo Oko was a member of the Alliance for Progressive Change (APC) political party and actively campaigned for Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in 2015.
She had previously been affiliated with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) but switched allegiances due to her dissatisfaction with the party’s offerings.
Other Nollywood stars, including Moji Olaiya, Remi Shitta-Bay, Remi Oshodi (Surutu), Ronke Oshodi-Oke, Eniola Badmus, Fadeyi Oloro, and L’Awori, were part of the APC team.
Untimely Demise of Iyabo Oko
Iyabo Oko’s health struggles eventually led to her untimely death on the evening of June 29, 2023.
Although details surrounding her passing remain undisclosed, her daughter Bisi Aisha confirmed the news and expressed her grief through a social media post.
The Nigerian film industry mourns the loss of a veteran actress whose contributions to the industry will be remembered.
May her soul rest in peace.