The family of the late veteran Nigerian actor, dramatist and theatre scholar, Chief Dr Adekola Gabriel Oyewo, popularly known as Kola Oyewo, has released a three-day burial programme. The rites will end with his burial on Friday, August 7, 2026, in Oba-Ile, Osun State.

The family and the Balogun Oyekola Oyewo Memorial Committee announced the funeral plans on Saturday through a funeral programme.

Oyewo died on June 12, 2026, at the age of 80. He built a career that spanned more than six decades in theatre, television, film and academics.

Family announces funeral schedule

In the funeral announcement, the Bangbola Oyewo family of the Ese-Ola Royal House, Oba-Ile, described him as “a beloved father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, colleague, esteemed traditional ruler and veteran of the Nigerian theatre.”

The burial activities will begin on Wednesday, August 5. A wake and service of songs will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Igboya, Ile-Ife.

On Thursday, August 6, the church will host a commendation mass. Later that day, family, friends and colleagues will gather for an Artistes’ Night at Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. The event will feature tributes and cultural performances.

Exhibition and final burial

An exhibition of Oyewo’s photographs, publications and creative works will also open on Thursday. The exhibition will take place at the Pit Theatre in the African Studies Building of Obafemi Awolowo University. It will run until Friday.

On Friday, August 7, his remains will leave his residence at Ese-Ola Compound, Oba-Ile, for a Requiem Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Oba-Ile.

Family members and close associates will later bury him at Labaluyegbe Villa, Oba-Ile. Guests will attend a reception at Aderonmu Grammar School Field.

Many people regard Oyewo as one of Nigeria’s leading theatre figures. He mentored generations of actors, playwrights and theatre scholars. He also helped preserve and promote Nigerian theatre and cultural heritage throughout his career.