The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has described the late veteran Nollywood actor and theatre scholar, Pa Kola Oyewo, as a towering cultural figure and a source of pride for Yorubaland following news of his death.
The monarch’s tribute came amid a wave of condolences from across Nigeria’s entertainment and academic communities, as colleagues, admirers and family members continue to reflect on Oyewo’s decades-long contribution to the performing arts.
Palace Statement Highlights Cultural and Academic Legacy
In an official condolence message released on Saturday through the Ooni’s Palace spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the monarch praised Oyewo’s lifelong dedication to theatre, culture and education.
He noted that the actor’s influence extended far beyond the stage, stressing that his body of work had become a lasting reference point in Nigerian performing arts and cultural scholarship.
According to the statement, Oyewo’s contributions would remain permanently etched in the development of theatre practice in Nigeria.
A Life Rooted in Yoruba Heritage and Performance Excellence
Born on 27 March 1946 in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Pa Kola Oyewo built a reputation as one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and Nollywood storytelling.
Throughout his career, he was widely recognised for his commanding stage presence, deep understanding of indigenous performance traditions, and commitment to elevating Yoruba cultural expression through drama and film.
Though originally from Oba-Ile, he spent much of his adult life in Ile-Ife, where he became closely associated with the city’s cultural and intellectual life.
Ile-Ife Connection and Influence on Cultural Development
The Ooni emphasised that Oyewo was not only a visiting artist but a deeply integrated figure within Ile-Ife’s artistic and academic environment.
His presence in the ancient city, according to the tribute, contributed significantly to its cultural growth, as he engaged in mentoring younger creatives and supporting theatrical education.
He was described as a bridge between traditional Yoruba performance heritage and modern academic theatre practice.
Tributes to a Scholar, Mentor and Cultural Ambassador
Beyond his work in film and stage performance, Oyewo was celebrated as an educator and mentor whose influence shaped generations of actors and theatre practitioners.
The Ooni referred to him as a cultural ambassador whose work helped project Yoruba heritage to national and international audiences, reinforcing its relevance in contemporary storytelling.
His contributions also extended into academic institutions, where he helped advance theatre studies and performance research.
Monarch Calls for Reflection and Condolences to Family
In his message, the Ooni extended condolences to the Oyewo family, praying for the peaceful repose of the late actor and encouraging relatives to take comfort in the enduring impact of his life’s work.
He described Oyewo’s legacy as one defined not only by artistic achievement but also by service, education and cultural preservation.
As tributes continue to pour in, Pa Kola Oyewo is being remembered as a foundational figure whose influence will remain embedded in Nigeria’s artistic and cultural history.
