The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has paid glowing tributes to veteran Nollywood actor, theatre scholar and cultural icon, Pa Kola Oyewo, describing him as a pride of Yorubaland.
Oyewo, whose death was announced on Friday, has continued to attract tributes from family members, colleagues and stakeholders in the entertainment industry.
In a condolence message on Saturday signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, the monarch said the late actor made remarkable contributions to theatre, culture and education.
He said Oyewo’s works would remain indelible in the history of Nigerian performing arts.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, the late actor was widely respected for his contributions to stage performance, film and academic theatre practice.
“Although a native of Oba-Ile, he spent much of his life in Ile-Ife, where he became a beloved figure and contributed immensely to the cultural and intellectual development of the ancient city.
“Pa Kola Oyewo was a pride of Yorubaland, a distinguished scholar and a cultural ambassador who dedicated his life to the promotion of our rich heritage.
Through his talent, wisdom and commitment to excellence, he brought honour not only to Ile-Ife and Osun State but to the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole,” the Ooni said.
The monarch also noted that Oyewo’s legacy extended beyond entertainment into education, mentorship and cultural preservation.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and extended condolences to the Oyewo family, urging them to take solace in his impactful life and achievements.
