Veteran Nollywood actor and revered cultural figure, Lere Paimo, has passed away at the age of 86.
News of his death was announced on Saturday by veteran entertainment journalist and Chairman of the Best of Nollywood Awards, Seun Oleketuyi, who shared the update across his social media pages.
In his Instagram post, Oleketuyi wrote: “Chief Lere Paimo (MON) is dead. Baba died at age 86. A strong man. Baba survived a stroke twice. May Baba’s soul rest in peace.”
At the time this report was filed, Paimo’s family had not yet issued an official confirmation.
Popularly known as Eda Onileola, Paimo was regarded as one of the most influential pillars of Yoruba theatre and film, with a remarkable career that spanned more than sixty years.
Born in September 1939 in Oyo State, he began his acting journey in 1958 after joining the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. He later moved to the Duro Ladipo Theatre, where he starred in major productions, including the iconic stage play Obamoro, in which he portrayed “Chief Basa”.
His rise to national fame came with his lead role as Soun Ogunola in the Yoruba classic Ogbori Elemosho, a performance that cemented his status as one of Nigeria’s most respected traditional actors.
From 1963 onwards, Paimo featured in, produced, and directed numerous highly regarded Yoruba films. Some of his memorable screen appearances include: Agogo Eewo (2002), The Narrow Path (2006), Moremi Ajasoro (2009), Saworoide (1999), O Le Ku (1997), The Campus Queen (2004), Arugba (2008).
In 2005, former President Olusegun Obasanjo honoured him with the national title of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) in recognition of his vast contributions to the Nigerian film industry.
Despite suffering a partial stroke in 2013, Paimo continued to make occasional public appearances. In 2014, he won ₦1 million on the television game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
His death marks the end of an era, signalling the departure of one of Nigeria’s most enduring custodians of traditional theatre, culture, and storytelling.
