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The Yoruba arm of Nollywood continues to stand out for its rich storytelling, cultural depth, and exceptional comedy. In an industry where laughter meets life’s lessons, a few names have remained consistently at the top of Yoruba movie comedy — Tunde Usman (Okele), Olaniyi Afonja (Sanyeri), Wale Akorede (Okunnu), and Ademola Tijani, popularly known as Kamilu Kompo. These living comic legends have not only built careers on humour but have also become symbols of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.
Tunde Usman (Okele): From Stage Play to Comic Stardom
Tunde Usman, better known by his stage name Okele, has become a household name in Yoruba Nollywood. Interestingly, the name “Okele” wasn’t self-chosen. During his early days in theatre, he was cast as one of the King’s aides in a stage play, and the script gave his character the name Okele. After the rehearsals, children in the area began calling him by that name — and it stuck for life.
He recalled, “During my early stage in acting, we had a rehearsal and I was selected to play one of the King’s aides. I was given the name Okele in the script. The rehearsal took place in an open space where passersby could stand and watch us. I vividly remember that after each rehearsal, the kids around would run after me, calling me Okele. That’s how the name stuck.”
Before becoming a full-time actor, Okele worked as an electronics repairer while still participating in local theatre groups. His big break came when he began featuring in Yoruba movies, quickly earning fame for his hilarious expressions, exaggerated reactions, and ability to turn everyday situations into pure comedy.
Okele’s brand of humour is deeply rooted in the Yoruba lifestyle — witty, relatable, and filled with proverbs and social lessons. Over the years, he has acted in hundreds of Yoruba movies and remains one of the most respected comic figures in the industry.
Olaniyi Afonja (Sanyeri): The King of Slapstick
Olaniyi Afonja, widely known as Sanyeri, is another comic genius who has shaped Yoruba Nollywood comedy. Born in Oyo Town in 1974, Sanyeri began his acting journey in 1992 and made his name through stage performances before moving to Lagos to expand his career.
Sanyeri’s breakout came with his unforgettable roles in movies like Muniru ati Ambali and Opa Kan, where his quirky expressions, comical body movements, and unique voice became trademarks. His humour often revolves around everyday life — portraying characters that embody both mischief and innocence.
Beyond his comic skills, Sanyeri’s ability to improvise has made him a director’s favourite. His collaboration with other Yoruba stars like Adekola Tijani (Kamilu Kompo) and Odunlade Adekola has produced some of the most memorable comedy duos in Yoruba movie history.
Wale Akorede (Okunnu): The Man of Many Faces
Wale Akorede, better known as Okunnu, is one of Yoruba Nollywood’s most versatile comedians. Born in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Okunnu initially studied Fine Arts at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, before switching to acting. He started from stage plays before moving into movies, where his exaggerated expressions, confused looks, and witty dialogue delivery made him an audience favourite.
Okunnu’s genius lies in his ability to interpret diverse roles while keeping his trademark comic energy intact. Whether he’s playing a troublesome husband, a village gossip, or a confused messenger, Okunnu’s delivery remains natural and infectious. Over the years, he has become one of the most sought-after comic actors in Yoruba Nollywood and continues to mentor younger performers.
Ademola Tijani (Kamilu Kompo): The Charismatic Entertainer
Ademola Tijani, known by fans as Kamilu Kompo, is a dynamic Yoruba actor, comedian, and producer whose on-screen energy never fails to entertain. Kamilu Kompo’s comedy style blends traditional Yoruba wit with contemporary humour, making him a bridge between old-school comedy and the new generation of entertainers.
He rose to fame through his stage collaborations with Sanyeri, forming one of the most iconic comic duos in Yoruba movie history. Their chemistry — one clumsy, the other cunning — created unforgettable moments in films like Opa Kan, Muniru ati Ambali, and Sanyeri in London.
Kamilu Kompo’s style stands out because of his physical humour, strong facial expressions, and spontaneous delivery. He often plays the witty, talkative character who finds himself in ridiculous yet relatable situations. Beyond acting, he has also directed and produced several comedy films that showcase Yoruba culture, values, and family life.
Keeping Yoruba Comedy Alive
These four men — Okele, Sanyeri, Okunnu, and Kamilu Kompo — represent a generation of Yoruba comedians who have kept the heart of indigenous entertainment beating strong. Their movies blend laughter with lessons, humour with humility, and jokes with deep cultural insight.
Together, they have influenced a new wave of Yoruba entertainers, ensuring that local comedy remains a cornerstone of Nollywood. In an era where content is global, their commitment to preserving Yoruba humour, language, and storytelling continues to earn them love and admiration from fans across Nigeria and beyond.
#Okele
#Okunu
#Sanyeri
#KamiluKompo
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