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The family of popular Nigerian actor, theater scholar and traditional ruler, Dr. Adekola Gabriel Oyewo, popularly known as Kola Oyewo, have announced arrangements for the burial of the late icon, with funeral activities scheduled from August 5 to 7, 2026, in Osun State.
Oyewo, who has died aged 80, was widely celebrated as one of Nigeria’s foremost theater practitioners, leaving behind a lasting legacy in acting, academia and the preservation of Yoruba culture.
The funeral programme, released by the Bangbola Oyewo family of Ese-Ola Royal House, Oba-Ile, described the late actor as a beloved father, grandfather, traditional ruler and mentor whose contributions to the Nigerian theater industry will remain unforgettable.
The family pays a warm tribute
In a statement announcing the funeral arrangements, the family expressed gratitude to God for what they described as a life full of purpose, honor and extraordinary accomplishments.
According to the statement, the late Oyewo dedicated his life to the advancement of theater arts, education and community development, earning the admiration of colleagues, students and admirers across the country.
The family described him as a loving father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and respected custodian of culture whose impact extended beyond the stage.
His passing, they noted, created a huge void within Nigeria’s creative and academic communities.
Three-day funeral program
The funeral rites will begin on Wednesday, August 5, with a wake and song service at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Igboya, Ile-Ife.
On Thursday 6 August, family, friends, colleagues and supporters will gather in the same church for a mass of commendation in honor of the late actor.
Later that evening, an artist evening of tributes, cultural performances and dramatic presentations will be held at the Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
The event is expected to attract theater professionals, academics, students, culture enthusiasts and admirers from different parts of the country who will celebrate Oyewo’s extraordinary contributions to the performing arts.
Exhibition to celebrate legacy
One of the highlights of the funeral program will be an exhibition showcasing Oyewo’s works, photographs, awards and memorable moments throughout his illustrious career.
The exhibition will be held at the Pit Theatre, African Studies Building, Obafemi Awolowo University, starting Thursday and continuing until Friday.
Organizers said the exhibition is designed to preserve the memory of the late actor, while giving younger generations the opportunity to appreciate his immense contribution to Nigerian theater and cultural development.
Visitors are expected to see rare photographs, publications, costumes and other items associated with the veteran actor’s illustrious career.
Final trip to Oba-Ile
The funeral procession will depart from the late actor’s residence at Ese Ola Complex, Oba-Ile, on Friday, August 7, before proceeding to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Oba-Ile, for a requiem mass.
The burial is scheduled for 12.45pm at Labaluyegbe Villa, Oba-Ile, in a private ceremony attended by family members and close associates.
A reception for invited guests will follow at the Aderonmu Grammar School Field, Oba-Ile, where friends, colleagues and supporters will celebrate the life and achievements of the theater icon.
A life dedicated to theatre
Beyond his achievements as an actor, Kola Oyewo was the Balogun of Oba-Ile and an associate professor of drama whose influence extended to the academic and entertainment fields.
For decades he has inspired generations of actors, playwrights and theater scholars through his performances, research, teaching and commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
His distinguished career on stage, in television and in higher education has earned him widespread respect as one of the country’s leading voices in the theater arts.
The family said that although his passing marks the end of an era, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists, scholars and cultural advocates across Nigeria and beyond.
