Nollywood veteran actor, Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, popularly known as Agbako has died.
TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that the president of the Theatre Arts And Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria, TAMPAN Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin announced the actor’s demise on Instagram on Thursday.
According to the statement released on his page, the veteran died today at aged 101.
He wrote, “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.”
Reacting to the news, Nigerian celebrities such as actor Jide Kosoko, Kunle Afod via the comment section of the post penned goodbye notes to Agbako.
Kunle Afod wrote , “Good night pa Chalse Olumo (baba Agbako )The oldest actor. 101 yearsSun re oooO daboO di Oju Ala.”
While, Jide Kosoko wrote, ““Good night ooo, Baba Charles. a.k.a Agbako, 102 years, ba wasa ba. R I P,” indicating the actor’s remarkable longevity and vibrant spirit.”
Born on February 19, 1923, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Agbako had a fascinating journey before finding his calling in acting. He initially worked as a mechanic and even dabbled in amateur boxing, displaying his multi-talented nature.
In 1953, he took a decisive step towards acting, beginning his career with a drama group at the Apostolic Church in Mushin, Lagos State.
This was a turning point, as he soon became a beloved figure in Nigerian theater and, later, in Yoruba cinema.
Agbako’s impact on the film industry is legendary, particularly in the Yoruba-speaking regions, where his powerful performances captivated audiences. Over the years, he starred in many popular films that cemented his status as a household name, including ‘Taxi Driver,’ ‘Jagun,’ ‘Amin Orun,’ ‘Aiye,’ ‘Jayesinmi,’ ‘Soworo Ide,’ and ‘Igbo Dudu.’