Nigerian Film Legend Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, aka Charles Olumo, Dies at 101

Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, the renowned Nigerian actor famously known as Charles Olumo and Baba Agbako, has passed away at the age of 101.

Bolaji ‘Mr Latin’ Amusan, president of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), announced the news on Instagram, stating, “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.”

Agbako, who celebrated his 100th birthday last year, was particularly renowned in the Yoruba film industry, boasting a career that spanned over four decades. 

Born in 1923, Sanyaolu was a pioneer of the Yoruba film sector, which eventually evolved into Nollywood.

He rose to fame through his roles in traditional Yoruba films, often portraying formidable characters such as villains, warriors, and chiefs. His remarkable ability to embody such tough roles established him as a household name, allowing him to collaborate with a diverse array of filmmakers and actors throughout his lengthy career.

In the early stages of his profession, Yoruba theatre and film productions were primarily restricted to stage plays and local performances. However, as the industry expanded into film and television, Agbako made a seamless transition, becoming one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba cinema.

Frances Ibiefo

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