ANTP Debunks Death Rumour On Veteran Actor Lere Paimo

The Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has dismissed viral rumours claiming that veteran actor, Chief Lere Paimo (MFR), popularly known as Baba Eda, has died.

Reports had circulated on Friday across social media, particularly Facebook, alleging that the iconic actor passed away.

However, ANTP’s National PRO, Prince Adejonwo Oluwafemi Femson, refuted the claim in a statement, insisting that Paimo is “alive and in good health.”

He wrote: “Baba Eda, Chief Lere Paimo MFR, is NOT dead. We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are FALSE. We have confirmed with Baba Eda Onile Ola’s wife that he is alive and in good health.”

The association urged Nigerians to ignore what it described as misinformation spread by “unscrupulous individuals.”

Femson added: “Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR), Chairman Board of Trustee, Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP), is alive and well. We urge everyone to verify information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation.”

Lere Paimo remains one of the most celebrated figures in indigenous Nigerian cinema. Renowned for his powerful screen presence and historical roles, his contributions to Yoruba theatre and filmmaking earned him national recognition.

Paimo began his acting career in 1958, joining the Oyin Adejobi theatre group, led by Pa Oyinade Adejobi. While teaching in Osogbo in 1960, he formally became part of the troupe, performing in churches, schools, and cultural clubs.

In 1961, playwright Duro Ladipo invited him to the Mbari Club, where his exceptional talent secured major roles. His breakthrough came in 1963 when he played the lead in the epic Yoruba film, “Ogbori Elemosho”, a role that cemented his legacy in Nigerian cinema.