Nollywood fans and colleagues are in mourning following the passing of veteran actor Charles Olumo, fondly known as “Agbako.” Social media has been flooded with tributes for the legendary actor, who made an indelible mark on Nigeria’s film industry with a career spanning several decades.
The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) officially announced Agbako’s death on Thursday. TAMPAN’s president, Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr. Latin, shared the sad news on Instagram, marking an emotional moment for Nollywood and its fans.
He posted: “#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.”
Tributes poured in from prominent Nollywood actors, reflecting the widespread respect and admiration held for Agbako. Fellow actor Jide Kosoko expressed his sorrow, stating, “Good night ooo, Baba Charles. a.k.a Agbako, 101 years, ba wasa ba. R I P.” Similarly, actor Kunle Afod shared, “Good night pa Charles Olumo (Baba Agbako), the oldest actor. 101 years, Sun re ooo, O dabo, O di Oju Ala.” .
Other celebrities, including Funke Akindele, Mercy Aigbe, and Kazim Adeoti, also honored Agbako’s memory. Funke Akindele commented, “Awwwwwwww may his soul rest in peace. Wow. Oluwa tobi loba.” Biodun Okeowo, known as Omo Butty, reflected on the sadness of losing loved ones, writing, “Rest well sir. No matter how old our loved ones are, we never want to see them go! Kudos boss Afod for all you do.”
Born in 1923, Agbako was one of Nollywood’s early stars, particularly renowned in the Yoruba film industry. He began his career in stage plays before transitioning to film, where he became well known for his powerful portrayals of traditional chiefs, warriors, and villainous roles. These characters became his signature, making him a beloved figure across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Agbako’s contributions to classics such as Ogbori Elemosho and Atorunmo solidified his position as a legend. With a career that spanned from stage to screen, he left a legacy that resonated across generations of Nollywood fans.
