Veteran actor, Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, popularly known as Charles Olumo and Agbako, is dead.
This was made known in a statement by the president of Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) , Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin on Instagram on Thursday.
He wrote, “#tampanglobal announces the passing of Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, fondly known as AGBAKO. Details of the burial arrangements will be shared at a later time. Good night father, 25/02/1923 to 31/10/2024.”
Nollywood actor, Jide Kosoko, also confirmed Agbako’s demise as he wrote: “Good night ooo, Baba Charles. a.k.a Agbako, 101 years, ba wasa ba. R I P.”
Agbako clocked 101th this year.
Life and Times
Charles Olumo was born in the early 1920s, a time of immense cultural and social changes. Rising to prominence as a prominent actor in Yoruba cinema, Agbako became widely recognised for his ability to embody both comedic and villainous roles, a versatility that endeared him to viewers and solidified his place as one of the most memorable faces in the industry.
Over the years, his impact extended beyond acting, as he became a cultural symbol, representing the evolution of Nigerian cinema and the Yoruba tradition in entertainment.
Over the years, his impact extended beyond acting, as he became a cultural symbol, representing the evolution of Nigerian cinema and the Yoruba tradition in entertainment.
Tributes from across the Nigerian entertainment industry speak to his influence on younger actors and his role in shaping the future of Yoruba cinema. His passing is seen as not only a loss to the industry but to Nigeria’s rich cultural fabric.
