The Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has dismissed viral reports claiming that veteran Nollywood actor Lere Paimo is dead, confirming that the film legend is alive and in good health.
The clarification followed an earlier announcement by celebrity journalist and Chairman of the Best of Nollywood Awards, Seun Oleketuyi, who posted on Instagram on Saturday that the renowned actor had passed away at the age of 86. Oleketuyi had stated that the cultural icon, popularly known as “Eda Onile Ola,” survived two strokes before his alleged death.
He wrote:
“Chief Lere Paimo (MON) is dead. Baba died at age 86.
A strong man. Baba survived a stroke twice.
May Baba’s soul rest in peace.”
However, ANTP countered the claim on Saturday in a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Prince Adejonwo Oluwafemi Femson. The association confirmed that Paimo, whose full name is Chief Olalere Osunpaimo (MFR), is very much alive.
The statement read:
“We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are false.
We have confirmed with Baba Eda Onile Ola’s wife that he is alive and in good health.
Please disregard these false reports and be aware that they are being spread by unscrupulous individuals.”
The association cautioned the public against circulating unverified information, stressing the dangers of misinformation.
“We urge everyone to verify information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation,” the statement added.
Earlier Reports Claimed Lere Paimo Had Died at 86
Before ANTP’s clarification, several online platforms had circulated reports announcing the death of the celebrated actor, citing Oleketuyi’s Instagram post. They described Paimo as one of the most influential figures in Yoruba theatre and film, with a career spanning more than six decades.
Born in September 1939 in Oyo State, Lere Paimo began his acting career in 1958 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. He later joined the Duro Ladipo Theatre, where he starred in numerous productions, including the iconic stage play Obamoro.