Iconic Nollywood actor, Ayobami Olabiyi is dead

Veteran Nollywood actor and respected member of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Otunba Ayobami Mudashir Olabiyi, widely known as “Bobo B,” has sadly passed away. 

Olabiyi reportedly died in Ibadan, Oyo State, after a brief illness. He had been a significant figure in the Nigerian film industry, having served as the former governor of TAMPAN in Oyo State and, until his passing, the association’s National Secretary.

His death marks a profound loss, particularly within the Yoruba film community, where he had left an indelible mark.

It was reported that Olabiyi had been slated to participate in a movie shoot in Oyo State last month but was unable to attend due to deteriorating health.

He was later admitted to the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, where he eventually passed away.

The current governor of TAMPAN in Oyo State, Bose Akinola, confirmed the sad news in an emotional statement: “I have a directive of the Oyo State TAMPAN governor, Her Excellency Yeye Bose Akinola, to announce the death of our TAMPAN National General Secretary, Chief Alhaji Musadshir Ayobami Olabiyi ‘Bobo B.’ May God give his family and the entire TAMPAN members globally the fortitude to bear the loss. Insha Allah, Amen.”

Olabiyi’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from his colleagues and friends, with many sharing fond memories of their time together on set.

One of his colleagues, Abidemi Temitayo, recalled a memorable moment: “I remembered vividly the night we took that second slide after shooting.”

The Nollywood community continues to mourn the loss of one of its beloved figures, as tributes pour in from across the industry.

We were on set when the director gave us a line. Bobo B said, ‘Bidemi is sure of herself, ki se Omode actor now,’ and we all laughed. That same jovial man is no more.

Hearing about your death is so shocking. Rest well, Bobo B. The industry will surely miss you, and the world at large.”

Princess Adenike Ajoke also mourned his passing, stating: “May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace, TAMPAN National General Secretary, Chief Alhaji Mudashir Ayobami Olabiyi ‘Bobo B.’ May God give his family and the entire TAMPAN members globally the fortitude to bear the loss. Insha Allah, Amen.”

Olabiyi’s contributions to Nollywood, both as an actor and a leader within TAMPAN, will not be forgotten.

His legacy in the industry will live on, and he will be greatly missed by his colleagues, fans, and the many lives he touched.

Olabiyi’s death has left a significant void, especially within the Yoruba film community, where he was not only an actor but also a mentor to many aspiring filmmakers and actors.

His remarkable career spanned decades, during which he played a vital role in shaping the direction of Yoruba cinema.