The Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has dismissed rumours circulating online claiming that veteran actor Lere Paimo is dead.
The false report began trending on Facebook on Saturday, prompting the association to release a statement assuring the public that the Yoruba film legend is alive.
In the statement signed by ANTP’s National Public Relations Officer Adejonwo Oluwafemi, popularly known as Femson, the association said:
“We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are false. We have confirmed with Baba Eda Onile Ola’s wife that he is alive and in good health. Please disregard these false reports and be aware that they are being spread by unscrupulous individuals.”
The group also cautioned the public against spreading unverified information, adding:
“We urge everyone to verify information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation.”
Lere Paimo’s personal assistant Ariyo also debunked the trending claims. He described the rumour as “a figment of imagination,” adding:
“Baba is very much alive, he is not dead. It is unfortunate how people could be despicable. I am with Baba now and there is nothing like that. Baba is still asleep.”
Filmmaker Kunle Afod, who recently renovated the veteran’s home in Ogbomoso, also confirmed the development in a video posted online, stating that the reports were fake.
Lere Paimo, popularly known as Baba Eda Onile Ola, was born on November 19, 1939, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. The respected actor and filmmaker, honoured with the national award of MFR, is regarded as one of the pillars of Yoruba theatre.
Fans of the living legend have since expressed relief online following confirmations from the association and his family.
