Nollywood in Mourning: Veteran Yoruba Actor Baba Gebu Passes Away at 73 After Brief Illness
The Nollywood community is reeling from the sudden loss of one of its cherished icons, as veteran Yoruba actor Prince Oyewole Olowomojuore, popularly known as Baba Gebu, died on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, following a short battle with an undisclosed illness. At 73, Baba Gebu’s passing marks another somber chapter for the industry, coming just months after the deaths of other legends like Mr. Ibu and Sisi Quadri, leaving fans and peers grappling with grief.
The heartbreaking news was first shared by fellow actor and filmmaker Kunle Afod via an emotional Instagram post late Wednesday evening, where he described the thespian as a “great legend” whose departure left a void in the hearts of many. Afod shared nostalgic photos of Baba Gebu on set, capturing his infectious energy and commanding presence that defined decades of Yoruba cinema. Details of the illness remain private, with sources close to the family emphasizing the actor’s quiet fight and peaceful passing surrounded by loved ones.
Baba Gebu rose to prominence in the golden era of Yoruba movies, earning acclaim for his versatile roles as a wise elder, comic relief, or stern patriarch in over 100 films. His breakout came in the 1990s with hits like Omo Gomina and Ayanmo, where his booming voice and expressive face brought authenticity to stories rooted in Nigerian cultural folklore. Often typecast as the quintessential “Baba” figure—complete with flowing agbada and proverb-laced wisdom—he bridged traditional theater (from his roots in Lagos’ Egungun masquerade troupes) to modern Nollywood, mentoring young talents like Odunlade Adekola and Femi Adebayo. Off-screen, he was a community advocate, using his platform to champion education and rural development in his hometown of Osogbo, Osun State.
Tributes poured in swiftly across social media, turning #RIPBabaGebu into a trending topic on X by Thursday morning. Veteran actress Yemi Solade, who co-starred with him in several productions, posted a tearful video: “Uncle, your laughter echoed through our sets like thunder. Rest well, legend—you’ve joined the ancestors.” Filmmaker Yinka Afolayan echoed the sentiment, calling him “the glue of our industry,” while fans flooded timelines with clips from his iconic scenes, reminiscing about how his characters taught life lessons wrapped in humor. One X user wrote: “Baba Gebu didn’t just act; he lived every role. Nollywood loses a pillar today. 💔 #RIPBabaGebu.”
The Yoruba sector of Nollywood, known for its vibrant storytelling and cultural depth, has faced a wave of losses in 2025, prompting calls from the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) for better healthcare support amid the industry’s grueling schedules. AGN President Emeka Rollas, in a statement to Premium Times, vowed to honor Baba Gebu with a befitting farewell, including a candlelight procession in Lagos next week. “His legacy in preserving our stories will endure,” Rollas said.
As details of funeral arrangements emerge, the outpouring of love underscores Baba Gebu’s enduring impact—from screen to soul. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the Nollywood family during this profound time of sorrow. Rest in power, Baba.