Online reports announcing the death of legendary Nollywood actor Lere Paimo have caused panic across social media, leaving fans and industry stakeholders deeply concerned.
Viral Rumours Spread About Nollywood Veteran
Multiple posts claimed that Paimo, popularly called Eda Onileola, had died at 86.
Seun Oleketuyi, a well-known celebrity journalist and Chairman of the Best of Nollywood Awards, fueled the rumour after sharing the news on Instagram. In his post, he described the actor as a “strong man” who had survived two strokes.
He wrote: “Chief Lere Paimo (MON) is dead. Baba died at age 86. A strong man. Baba survived stroke twice. May Baba’s soul rest in peace.”
The announcement spread rapidly, with fans expressing shock and pouring out tributes in honour of the veteran performer.
Celebrated Career and Influence on Yoruba Film
Paimo’s legacy in Yoruba theatre and Nollywood spans more than 60 years.
Born in September 1939 in Oyo State, he began his acting journey in 1958 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before joining the Duro Ladipo Theatre. He appeared in productions like Obamoro and rose to national prominence for his role as Soun Ogunola in Ogbori Elemosho.
Over the decades, he featured in, directed, and produced several classics, including:
- Agogo Eewo (2002)
- The Narrow Path (2006)
- Moremi Ajasoro (2009)
- Saworoide (1999)
- O Le Ku (1997)
- The Campus Queen (2004)
- Arugba (2008)
His immense contributions earned him the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) in 2005 under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
ANTP Clarifies: Lere Paimo Is Still Alive
Shortly after the supposed death announcement spread, the Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners (ANTP) stepped in to debunk the reports, confirming that the actor is alive.
Fans and fellow actors have since expressed relief and called for caution, urging the public to fact-check information before circulating it.