NIGERIA: ANTP Debunks Rumoured Death Of Veteran Actor Lere Paimo

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that veteran Yoruba actor and cultural icon, Chief Olalere Osunpaimo, is dead.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the National Public Relations Officer, Adejonwo Oluwafemi, the association confirmed that the actor, popularly known as Baba Eda Onile Ola, is alive and in good health. Oluwafemi said the clarification followed false claims shared widely on Facebook.

According to the statement: “We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are false.”

The association added that it had reached out to the actor’s family to verify his condition.

“We have confirmed with Baba Eda Onile Ola’s wife that he is alive and in good health.”

ANTP warned that the unverified reports were being spread by individuals seeking attention, urging the public to avoid amplifying misinformation.

The statement further emphasised: “Please disregard these false reports and be aware that they are being spread by unscrupulous individuals.”

The association appealed to Nigerians to verify sensitive information before sharing it further on social media.

“We urge everyone to verify information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation.”

The veteran actor remains a respected figure in Yoruba theatre and film, with a career spanning several decades.