Veteran filmmaker, Tunde Kelani, has paid tribute to late scholar and actor Professor Kola Oyewo, describing him as a rare talent who bridged scholarship and performance.
In a farewell message, Kelani recalled working with Oyewo on Koseegbe, Oleku and Saworoide. He said the Professor’s portrayal of Oba Lapite in Saworoide gave the role “depth, dignity and humanity”, making it one of the film’s most enduring characters.
“Ironically, Lapite’s death in the story created a challenge for me as a filmmaker. Once he was publicly executed by Lagata, I could not bring Kola Oyewo back into the narrative. I missed him then. Today, I miss him again,” Kelani wrote.
Kelani noted that Oyewo belonged to a generation that inspired countless students, actors and audiences through talent, humility and a lifelong commitment to culture, theatre and film.
“Nigeria has lost a remarkable artist. Farewell, Professor Kola Oyewo. Farewell, Oba Lapite. Your legacy will endure in the stories you told and the lives you touched,” he concluded.
Professor Kola Oyewo, a respected academic, cultural ambassador and stage/film actor, was renowned for blending scholarly insight with powerful performances that shaped Nigerian theatre and cinema.
