Beloved Veteran Yoruba Actor, Adewale Adeyemo, Passes Away After Illness

Renowned Nigerian actor, Prince Adewale Adeyemo, a celebrated figure in the Yoruba film industry, tragically passed away on Monday morning following a short-term illness. His death was reported by his contemporary, actor Kunle Afod, on his social media account, leaving the film community in a state of shock and profound sorrow.

Adeyemo, lovingly known in the industry as Baba Igbomina due to his Kwara State roots, was a prominent character actor with a career spanning over three decades. He was appreciated for his humorous portrayal of characters that resonated deeply with audiences.

While news of his passing quickly spread across social media, a heartfelt tribute from fellow actor Afod read, “Hmmmm God you know best RIP Prince Adewale Adeyemo. He passed on early hours of today after a brief illness. God will comfort all his family, friends and colleagues.”

Adeyemo’s death adds to a grim toll in the Nigerian film industry, with six actors having passed away this month alone, including notable personalities such as Murphy Afolabi and Saint Obi. This recent spate of deaths has led to a sense of bereavement enveloping the industry, as tributes continue to pour in for these lost luminaries.

Previously, Adeyemo had reportedly been battling various health complications since 2021, leading to a surgery that was generously financed by billionaire businessman, Otunba Mike Adenuga. Unfortunately, despite the surgical intervention, Adeyemo succumbed to his illness early Monday morning.

The loss of Adeyemo comes on the heels of a night of tribute organized by the Yoruba film industry for the late Murphy Afolabi, marking a period of mourning and reflection for the industry.

As the Nigerian film industry grapples with these multiple losses, tributes to Adeyemo, Afolabi, and other departed colleagues serve as poignant reminders of their lasting impact on Nigerian cinema. Their contributions to the film industry have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the country, and their passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill.

Adeyemo’s family, friends, and colleagues are in our thoughts during this difficult time, and we join the rest of the Nigerian film community in mourning the loss of this extraordinary talent.