Toyese Oyewo, son of late veteran actor Kola Oyewo, has shared details of his father’s final moments while appealing for prayers and support for the family.
Toyese posted a photograph on Instagram on Saturday, which he later deleted, showing the actor on his deathbed surrounded by family members, including himself and actor Kunle Afod.
In the post, he confirmed his father’s death and paid tribute to him, describing him as a man whose love, wisdom, strength and kindness touched many lives.
He wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved father. Adekola Akangbe Gabriel Oyewo. He was a wonderful man whose love, wisdom, strength, and kindness touched the lives of many.
“While we grieve this great loss, we are grateful to God for the gift of his life, the memories we shared, and the legacy he leaves behind. His impact will forever remain in our hearts and in the lives of everyone who knew him.
“I kindly ask for your prayers, comfort, and support for my family during this difficult time as we mourn his transition and celebrate the remarkable life he lived.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
QEDNG reported on Friday night that Oyewo died at the age of 80. The news was announced by his junior colleague Kunle Afod, who described the late actor as a legend whose contributions to Nigerian theatre and film would not be forgotten.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. He later became one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian cinema.
He was widely known for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that brought him recognition in theatre circles across Nigeria and beyond.
Aside from acting, Oyewo had a long academic career. He studied at Obafemi Awolowo University and the University of Ibadan and later lectured at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University, where he trained many students in theatre arts.
During a career that spanned more than six decades, he appeared in notable productions including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe and Super Story, leaving a lasting legacy in Nigerian theatre, television and film.
