In a poignant moment for the Nigerian entertainment industry, veteran film and television actor Dejumo Lewis, celebrated for his portrayal of Kabiyesi in the iconic television soap opera ‘The Village Headmaster,’ has passed away at the age of 80.
His passing was confirmed by a fellow actor, Saidi Balogun, in a post on his Instagram account on Saturday.
Lewis, whose career left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s cultural landscape, breathed his last in the early hours of this morning.
Balogun, who shared a photo of the veteran actor, wrote, “Good night Dejumo Lewis, may your soul rest in perfect peace, RIP.”
Though no details were given by Balogun on the cause of Lewis’ death, his post attracted a lot of tribute comments from fans and other former colleagues of the late actor.
Born on 28 July 1943, Dejumo Lewis carved a niche for himself in the hearts of viewers during the golden era of Nigerian television. The timeless charm of his performance as Kabiyesi in ‘The Village Headmaster,’ Nigeria’s longest-running television soap opera aired on NTA from 1968 to 1988, made him a household name alongside stalwarts like Justus Esiri and Femi Robinson.
The news of Lewis’s demise brings a somber note to fans and colleagues alike, marking the end of an era in Nigerian entertainment. His contributions to the industry spanned decades, leaving an enduring legacy that will be remembered by generations to come.
As tributes pour in from across the entertainment community, there is a collective acknowledgment of Dejumo Lewis’s exceptional talent and the impact he had on shaping the narrative of Nigerian television. Colleagues remember him not only for his remarkable on-screen presence but also for the camaraderie and warmth he brought to the sets, creating a lasting camaraderie among the cast and crew.
The loss of this legendary actor is deeply felt, and fans are expressing their grief on social media platforms, sharing fond memories of the characters he brought to life and the cultural significance of ‘The Village Headmaster.’ The show, which enjoyed an unparalleled run for two decades, remains a testament to Lewis’s ability to connect with audiences and capture the essence of Nigerian storytelling.
Dejumo Lewis’s passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, but his work will continue to resonate through reruns of ‘The Village Headmaster’ and other projects that showcase his talent.
As we bid farewell to a true icon, may his gentle soul rest in peace, and may his contributions to Nigerian television be forever cherished.
