The family of renowned Nigerian actor, theatre scholar and traditional chief, Chief Dr Adekola Gabriel Oyewo, popularly known as Kola Oyewo, has announced that he will be laid to rest on Friday, August 7, 2026, in Oba-Ile, Osun State.
In a funeral programme released by the Bangbola Oyewo family of the Ese-Ola Royal House, the late actor was described as a man whose life was marked by service, excellence and an enduring commitment to the growth of Nigerian theatre.
“With gratitude to God for a life of purpose, honour and enduring impact, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, colleague, esteemed traditional ruler and veteran of the Nigerian theatre,” the family said in a statement.
According to the programme, burial activities will begin on Wednesday, August 5, with a wake-keep and service of songs at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Igboya, Ile-Ife.
A commendation mass will be held at the same church on Thursday, August 6, while an artistes’ night featuring tributes and cultural performances will take place later that evening at Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
The family also announced that an exhibition showcasing Oyewo’s photographs, publications and other works will open on Thursday at the Pit Theatre, African Studies Building, Obafemi Awolowo University, and continue through Friday.
On the day of the burial, the funeral cortege will depart the late actor’s residence at Ese Ola’s Compound in Oba-Ile before a requiem mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Oba-Ile.
Interment is scheduled for 12:45 p.m. at Labaluyegbe Villa, Oba-Ile, in a private ceremony for family members and close associates, after which guests will be entertained at Aderonmu Grammar School Field, Oba-Ile.
The family noted that Oyewo, who died at the age of 80, left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s theatre industry through his work as an actor, scholar and mentor.
“His death marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s theatre community, where he remained a respected voice and mentor for decades,” the family added.
Beyond his accomplishments on stage and in academia, the late Kola Oyewo also served as the Balogun of Oba-Ile and was widely respected for his contributions to cultural preservation and theatre education in Nigeria.
