Veteran Yoruba Actor Elegbeje Ado Dies After Brief Illness
Veteran Yoruba actor and filmmaker, Pastor Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado, has died after a brief illness
June 30, 2026 10:34 AM GMT+1
Veteran Yoruba actor and filmmaker, Pastor Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado, has died after a brief illness
The Nollywood veteran passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026, according to a statement announcing his death
Adeshina was widely regarded as one of the respected figures in the Yoruba movie industry, where he built a reputation through his memorable performances and contributions to the growth of indigenous filmmaking
His death has been described as a significant loss to the Nigerian film industry, with colleagues, admirers and fans paying tribute to his enduring legacy and the impact he made during his career
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He was widely known for portraying traditional title holders, herbalists and a promoter of traditional worship in his movies
The name Elegbeje Ado stuck to him from a movie he acted in as the lead character of the same name in 1991 when Nollywood was beginning to rise before what it is today
Also renowned for acting in very sombre and sometimes sad roles requiring tears with many comparing him to another Nollywood veteran, Olatunbosun Odunsi
He was widely known for his roles in Ageku Abela and Oko Abiku, movies he acted after his initial breakthrough with the Elegbeje Ado movie, he was 66 at the time of his death
Outside of his commitments in Nollywood Elegbeje Ado ( Taiwo Adeshina) was a Pastor and transitioned fully into Ministry in 2016 before making a brief return in 2025 to produce Christian Movies
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His death was announced by actor Kunle Afod who has over the years demonstrated his affinity to the forgotten legends of the Yoruba section of the movie industry in a Facebook post: “We regret to announce the passing of one of the legends of the Yoruba Nollywood industry, Baba Elegbeje Ado
Your immense contribution to the growth of Yoruba cinema, your talent, and the joy you brought to countless lives will never be forgotten.
Thank you for the beautiful memories and the legacy you left behind. May your soul rest in perfect peace.
Our heartfelt condolences go to your family, friends, colleagues, and fans during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Baba Elegbeje Ado. Your legacy lives on forever”
