In a dramatic turn of events that has united fans, colleagues, and the entire Nigerian entertainment industry in celebration and relief, veteran actor, filmmaker, producer, and director Chief Lere Paimo, MFR – fondly known as “Eda Onile Ola” – has been officially confirmed alive and in robust health at 86 years old. The Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) swiftly debunked viral death hoaxes that spread like wildfire across social media on November 29, 2025, reaffirming Paimo’s enduring legacy as one of Africa’s most influential cultural icons.
Born Olalere Osunpaimo on November 19, 1939, in the vibrant community of Ile Ikoyi Odan, Osupa, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Chief Paimo emerged from humble beginnings as the son of a tobacco and yam farmer who led the local farmers’ association and a dedicated trader mother. Educated in Ogbomoso and later in the Gold Coast (present-day Ghana), where he earned a Teacher’s Grade Two Certificate from teacher training college, Paimo initially pursued a career in education. However, his innate passion for the performing arts soon redirected his path, leading him to the stage in 1958 when he joined the legendary Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group.
Paimo’s meteoric rise in Yoruba theatre was nothing short of transformative. His breakout role as “Everyman” in the Yoruba adaptation Eda – a profound retelling of the medieval morality play – earned him the enduring moniker “Eda Onile Ola” (Everyman of the House of Wealth), a testament to his commanding presence and emotional depth. For over a decade, he served as manager and right-hand man to the iconic Duro Ladipo, whose innovative blend of music, dance, and storytelling profoundly shaped Paimo’s artistry. Even today, decades after Ladipo’s passing in 1978, Paimo reveres him as “my boss,” crediting the mentorship for honing his skills in production, direction, and performance.
By 1973, Paimo had founded his own theatre company, a bold venture that quickly became a launchpad for aspiring talents. Under his leadership, the troupe produced an acclaimed repertoire of plays, including Ogbori Elemosho, Idajo, Irinajo Eda, Aye N Yi, Aye Gbege, Gbanga d’Ekun, Akukuu-Bi, Aago Alaago, Gba Die, and Ere Ogun. These works not only preserved Yoruba cultural narratives but also propelled Paimo to international stages, showcasing Nigerian storytelling to audiences across Africa and beyond. His contributions to theatre earned him widespread acclaim, including the prestigious national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2005, bestowed by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo for his invaluable service to the nation’s sociocultural and tourism development.
Transitioning seamlessly into the burgeoning Nollywood era, Paimo’s influence extended to the silver screen, where he became a multifaceted force as actor, producer, and director. His filmography boasts timeless masterpieces that have shaped generations, including Saworoide (1999), O Le Ku (1997), Agogo Eewo (2002), The Narrow Path (2006), The Campus Queen (2004), Arugba (2008), and Moremi Ajasoro (2009). In these roles, Paimo embodied the complexities of Nigerian society – from the moral dilemmas of traditional leadership to the triumphs of historical heroines like Moremi – delivering performances that blended gravitas with accessibility. His work in Ogbori Elemosho, in particular, solidified his status as the “Ogbori Elemosho” (King of Alms) of Yoruba cinema, a character archetype symbolizing benevolence and wisdom.
Over six decades, Chief Paimo’s career has been a beacon of resilience and mentorship. He has nurtured countless artists, including those who now dominate Nollywood’s global stage, fostering a legacy of excellence that transcends borders. Despite surviving two strokes and now outliving three baseless death rumors – the latest sparked by an erroneous social media post – Paimo remains a vital force. As the ANTP stated in their emergency clarification: “Chief Lere Paimo is alive, hale, and hearty. He was only asleep.” This latest hoax, falsely claiming his passing at 86, was swiftly dismantled, allowing the focus to shift to his upcoming birthday milestone.
Reflecting on his journey from a teacher’s desk to the pantheon of African arts, Chief Paimo shared from his Ogbomoso home: “The stage and screen have been my true classroom. I’ve lived many lives through stories – as Everyman, as king, as father – but the greatest role is being a bridge for our youth to carry Yoruba heritage forward. Rumors of my end? They only remind me: the story isn’t over yet. At 86, I’m still directing the next act.”
Tributes have poured in from across the industry:
- Jide Kosoko, Veteran Actor and ANTP President: “Chief Lere Paimo is the root from which our tree grows. His wisdom, his voice – they echo in every Yoruba film today. This rumor was a cruel interruption, but his spirit is unbreakable.”
- Funke Akindele, Award-Winning Filmmaker: “Baba Eda Onile Ola taught us that true power lies in authenticity. From O Le Ku to mentoring us all, he’s the heartbeat of Nollywood. Happy almost-birthday, sir – the world needs more of your light.”
- Oyin Adejobi, Theatre Icon and Contemporary: “Lere’s journey with my group in 1958 was the spark. He’s not just an actor; he’s the architect of our cultural revival. Long live the legend!”
As Nigeria’s film industry continues to conquer global markets – with Yoruba cinema leading the charge in storytelling innovation – Chief Lere Paimo’s legacy stands as an unassailable cornerstone. A family man with a low-profile personal life, he shares his wisdom with children like gospel singer Dele Paimo, ensuring his influence resonates in music and beyond.
The entertainment community calls on fans to celebrate rather than speculate, honoring Paimo’s contributions with verified admiration. Join the chorus: #LerePaimoLives #EdaOnileOla #NollywoodLegend.
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