Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has expressed profound grief over the passing of legendary Nigerian actor, dramatist, and academic, Dr. Kola Oyewo, who died on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the age of 80 following a brief illness.

In a formal statement, Atiku paid glowing tribute to the deceased icon, hailing his monumental contributions and enduring legacy in the advancement of African theatre and the creative arts.

Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Dr. Kola Oyewo was a towering figure whose career bridged the historical transition from traditional Yoruba travelling theatre to modern cinema and formal academia.

Atiku noted that Oyewo’s artistic journey—which began professionally in 1964 with the iconic Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group—exemplified dedication, passion, and an unshakeable commitment to cultural preservation. The former Vice President emphasized that the late veteran did not merely entertain generations of Africans but weaponized storytelling as a vehicle for historical education and moral instruction.

The tribute recalled Oyewo’s extraordinary stage presence and intellectual rigor, particularly highlighting his classic, definitive portrayal of “Odewale” in Professor Ola Rotimi’s timeless tragic play, The Gods Are Not to Blame, during his years with the University of Ife Theatre.

Beyond his unforgettable roles in cinematic masterpieces such as Saworoide, Koseegbe, Sango, and O Le Ku, Atiku lauded Oyewo’s profound transition into an accomplished scholar. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in 1995, he proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he successfully obtained his Master’s degree and a PhD in Drama.

As a senior lecturer at OAU and later as the Head of Department for Dramatic Arts at Redeemer’s University, Dr. Oyewo mentored thousands of young creative talents, successfully institutionalizing the practical wisdom of the stage into structured academic disciplines.

Atiku described the passing of the iconic dramatist as an irreparable loss to Nigeria’s creative economy and the global artistic community, stating that his exit has left a massive vacuum in the cultural landscape.

The PDP chieftain extended his heartfelt condolences to the Oyewo family, the government and people of Osun State, and the entire leadership and members of the Nigerian film and theatre community. He prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed legend, urging contemporary filmmakers, actors, and scholars to honor his memory by sustaining the high standards of integrity, cultural pride, and artistic excellence that Dr. Oyewo championed throughout his 60-year career.