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The family of veteran Nigerian actor and theatre scholar Kola Oyewo has announced details of his funeral arrangements, with final burial rites scheduled to hold on Friday, August 7, 2026, in Osun State.
The late actor, who died at the age of 80, leaves behind a legacy that spans theatre, television, traditional leadership and academia. Over several decades, Oyewo established himself as one of Nigeria’s respected cultural figures, contributing significantly to the growth of dramatic arts and mentoring generations of performers and scholars.
Funeral activities are expected to run across three days and will bring together family members, colleagues, students, cultural practitioners and admirers who followed his work throughout his lifetime.
In a statement released by the Bangbola Oyewo family of the Ese-Ola Royal House in Oba-Ile, the late actor was remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his role within his family and community.
The family described him as a beloved father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, colleague and traditional ruler whose influence extended beyond the entertainment industry.
According to the funeral programme released by the Balogun Oyekola Oyewo Memorial Committee, activities will begin on Wednesday, August 5.
The opening event will be a wake-keep and service of songs at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Igboya, Ile-Ife, where family members, friends and well-wishers are expected to gather to honour his memory and reflect on his life.
The following day, Thursday, August 6, a commendation mass will also take place at the same church.
Later that evening, attention will shift to Obafemi Awolowo University, where an artistes’ tribute night and cultural performances have been planned at Oduduwa Hall.
The event is expected to celebrate Oyewo’s enormous contribution to Nigerian theatre and showcase the impact he had on colleagues and younger generations within the creative industry.
As part of activities designed to preserve and highlight his legacy, organisers have also included an exhibition featuring photographs, creative works and selected moments from the late actor’s career.
The exhibition will be hosted at the university’s Pit Theatre located within the African Studies Building.
The display is expected to offer attendees an opportunity to revisit key moments from Oyewo’s journey as an actor, educator and cultural figure.
On Friday, August 7, the final burial ceremonies will commence with a funeral procession departing from the late actor’s residence at Ese Ola’s Compound in Oba-Ile.
The procession will be followed by a requiem mass at St Joseph Catholic Church.
Interment will later take place at Labaluyegbe Villa in Oba-Ile and, according to the family, attendance at that stage of the ceremony will be restricted to relatives and invited guests.
Activities will conclude with a reception at Aderonmu Grammar School Field.
Beyond his achievements as an actor, Kola Oyewo also played an important role in academia.
He served as an Associate Professor of Drama and contributed to the education and development of numerous theatre practitioners and students.
Outside the classroom, he held the traditional title of Balogun of Oba-Ile, combining cultural leadership with artistic and educational service.
For many admirers and colleagues, his passing marks the end of an important era in Nigerian theatre and cultural expression.
The family said his life and work will continue to inspire future generations and remain an enduring part of Nigeria’s artistic history.
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