Veteran Nigerian actor, Oyewole Olowomojuore, popularly known as ‘Baba Gebu’, has passed away at the age of 82.

The news of his passing was announced on Wednesday by actor and filmmaker, Kunle Afod, via a post on his verified Instagram page.

In his post, Afod revealed that the veteran actor died earlier on Tuesday after a brief illness.

“It saddens my heart as I announce the passing away of our great legend, a great actor who passed away this evening after a brief illness… BABA GEBU, may your soul rest in peace,” he wrote.

In his moving tribute, Afod hailed Baba Gebu as “a great legend,” praising his significant and enduring contributions to Nigerian cinema, especially within the Yoruba-language film sector.

Baba Gebu enjoyed a long and distinguished career spanning several decades, appearing in numerous Yoruba film productions and mentoring many talents in the industry.

In 2024, he spoke openly about the death of his wife, revealing that returning to acting helped him cope with his grief and ward off depression.

During that period, colleagues, including Kunle Afod, supported him both emotionally and professionally as he gradually re-established himself in the industry.

His passing signifies the end of an era, and leaves a lasting legacy in Yoruba movie industry, and Nollywood at large.