Veteran Nollywood actor Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, widely recognized as Charles Olumo and fondly known by his screen name “Agbako,” has passed away.
This somber news was shared by fellow Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko on his Instagram page on Thursday. However, Kosoko did not provide details regarding the circumstances of Agbako’s death.
Kosoko’s post conveyed deep respect and sadness as he wrote, “Good night ooo, Baba Charles. a.k.a Agbako, 102 years, ba wasa ba. R I P.”
Agbako was a prominent figure in Nigerian cinema, particularly within the Yoruba film industry. Born on February 19, 1923, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, his life spanned an impressive 102 years, marking a century of resilience and dedication.
His journey to fame, however, did not begin in acting. Initially, he worked as a mechanic and even dabbled in amateur boxing before discovering his passion for performance. His acting career took root in 1953 at the Apostolic Church in Mushin, Lagos State, where he began captivating audiences with his unique style and robust character portrayals.
Agbako’s career is a testament to his enduring versatility and passion, which ultimately led him to become a household name. Over the decades, he starred in numerous beloved Yoruba films, establishing himself as a pillar of the industry. Among his most notable works are “Taxi Driver,” “Jagun,” “Amin Orun,” “Aiye,” “Jayesinmi,” “Soworo Ide,” and “Igbo Dudu.” In each role, Agbako brought authenticity and intensity, endearing him to fans and cementing his legacy within Nigerian cinema. His career spanned over four decades, during which he witnessed the transformation of Nollywood from humble beginnings to a globally recognized industry.
Even as he aged, Agbako’s passion for acting remained, inspiring a generation of actors and filmmakers.
