Reports of the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Lere Paimo, have been circulating online, sparking widespread concern among fans and the Nigerian film community.
Viral reports claim death of Nollywood Icon
Paimo, famously known as Eda Onileola, was said to have passed away at the age of 86.
Celebrity journalist and Chairman of the Best of Nollywood Awards, Seun Oleketuyi, announced the death in an Instagram post on Saturday, describing Paimo as a “strong man” who survived two strokes.
“Chief Lere Paimo (MON) is dead. Baba died at age 86. A strong man. Baba survived stroke twice. May Baba’s soul rest in peace,” Oleketuyi wrote.
The news immediately went viral, with fans expressing shock and paying tribute to the cultural icon.
Career highlights and contributions to Yoruba cinema
Paimo is widely recognised for his contributions to Yoruba theatre and Nigerian cinema, having had a career spanning more than six decades.
Born in September 1939 in Oyo State, he began acting in 1958 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before moving to the Duro Ladipo Theatre, where he featured in productions such as Obamoro and gained national fame with his role as Soun Ogunola in Ogbori Elemosho.
Throughout his illustrious career, Paimo produced, directed, and starred in numerous acclaimed Yoruba films, including Agogo Eewo (2002), The Narrow Path (2006), Moremi Ajasoro (2009), Saworoide (1999), O Le Ku (1997), The Campus Queen (2004), and Arugba (2008).
In recognition of his contributions to Nigerian arts, he was awarded the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2005.
ANTP confirms Lere Paimo is alive
However, shortly after reports of his death spread, the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria (ANTP) debunked the claims, confirming that Paimo is alive.
Fans and colleagues have since expressed relief that the veteran actor is in good health, urging the public to verify information before sharing.