Farewell to an Icon: Tributes Pour in for Veteran Actor Dejumo Lewis

The news of the passing of veteran actor Dejumo Lewis at the age of 80 has left colleagues and fans mourning the loss of an iconic figure.

The announcement of Lewis‘s demise was made by fellow actor Saheed Saidi Balogun on Saturday, December 23, 2023, through a heartfelt post on social media. While details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain unclear, Saidi Balogun expressed his condolences, writing, “Good night, Pa Dejumo Lewis. May your soul rest in perfect peace.”

Shortly after the news broke, tributes began pouring in from fellow entertainers who celebrated Lewis’s impactful contributions to Nigerian television and film. Actress Yetunde Odunwole reminisced about Lewis‘ role as a king in the legendary TV series Village Headmaster, saying, “Kabiyesi, farewell to a great thespian that blessed us with his immense talent. We will never forget your role in the longest-running Nigerian sitcom, ‘The Village Headmaster.'”

Actor Funso Adeolu paid his respects, saying, “Oh wow, an icon has gone. May his soul rest in peace.”

Film director and producer Taiwo Oduala shared his condolences, stating, “Oloja Of Oja. An icon is gone. Pa Dejumo Lewis; may his soul rest in peace, amen!“

Born in 1943, Dejumo Lewis was a revered film and television actor celebrated for his versatility on both screen and stage. He gained prominence for portraying the Kabiyesi in The Village Headmaster, one of Nigeria’s longest-running television soap operas, aired on the Nigerian Television Authority from 1968 to 1988.

Lewis received acclaim for his performances in notable films, including A Place in the Stars, Crossroads, Power of One, and Agogo Eewo, directed by Tunde Kelani and featuring the late renowned playwright and novelist Akinwunmi Ishola.

During his illustrious career, Lewis also worked with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), leaving an indelible mark on the Nigerian entertainment landscape. As colleagues and fans remember him for his contributions, Dejumo Lewis‘ legacy will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those he entertained and inspired.