Renowned Nollywood actor Chief Alhaji Musadshir Ayobami Olabiyi, popularly known as “Bobo B,” has passed away at the age of 65. The veteran actor and industry leader died on October 15, 2024, at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State, after a brief illness.
Olabiyi’s death sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, with fans and colleagues alike mourning the loss of a true Nollywood icon. The actor, known for his versatility and comedic timing, had been a fixture in Nigerian cinema for over three decades, starring in countless films and TV series that endeared him to audiences across the nation.
Bose Akinola, the governor of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) in Oyo State, confirmed the news in a somber 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.”
The actor’s untimely demise came as a shock to many, as he was scheduled to begin filming a new movie in Oyo State just last month. However, reports indicate that Olabiyi fell ill and was unable to attend the shoot. His condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to his hospitalization at the University College Hospital in Ibadan.
Sources close to the family revealed that in his final days, Olabiyi was unable to speak or move, a tragic end for a man whose expressive performances had brought joy to millions. The exact cause of his illness has not been disclosed, respecting the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
Ayobami Olabiyi was more than just an actor; he was a pillar of the Nigerian film industry. At the time of his death, he held the position of National Secretary for TAMPAN, a role that allowed him to shape the future of Nollywood and mentor upcoming talents. Previously, he had served as the governor of the association in Oyo State, demonstrating his commitment to the growth and development of the industry at both regional and national levels.
Colleagues remember Olabiyi as a dedicated professional and a passionate advocate for actors’ rights. His work behind the scenes was as impactful as his on-screen performances, helping to establish better working conditions and opportunities for his fellow artists.
Olabiyi’s screen name, “Bobo B,” became synonymous with quality entertainment in Nigeria. His ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama made him a favorite among directors and a beloved figure to audiences. From side-splitting comedies to heart-wrenching dramas, Olabiyi’s range as an actor was truly remarkable.
Some of his most memorable roles include his portrayal of a cunning village chief in the classic “Ija Orogun” (Rivalry), his hilarious turn as a bumbling detective in “Aiye Toto” (Sweet Life), and his poignant performance as a struggling father in the critically acclaimed “Omo Iya Osun” (Child of Osun). These roles, among many others, cemented his status as one of Nollywood’s finest.
The news of Olabiyi’s passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the entertainment industry. Nollywood veterans and newcomers alike have taken to social media to express their sorrow and share memories of the late actor.
Veteran actress Joke Silva wrote on her Instagram page: “Bobo B was not just a colleague, but a dear friend and a guiding light in our industry. His wisdom and humor will be sorely missed. Rest in power, my brother.
Rising star Adesua Etomi-Wellington tweeted: “I had the privilege of working with Baba Bobo B early in my career. His kindness and professionalism taught me so much about what it means to be a true actor. Nollywood has lost a giant.”
Tragically, Olabiyi’s death comes on the heels of another loss to the Nigerian film community. Just days earlier, actor Big Larry, known for his roles in action films, also passed away. The dual losses have left the industry reeling, with many calling for a period of mourning and reflection.
Movie producer Stanley Nwoke, also known as Stanley Ontop, who announced Big Larry’s death on Instagram, spoke to us about the impact of these losses: “Losing both Bobo B and Big Larry in such a short span is devastating. They represented different generations and styles of Nollywood, but both were integral to our storytelling tradition. Their absence will be felt for years to come.”
As the Nigerian film industry grapples with the loss of two of its stalwarts, many are reflecting on the legacy these actors leave behind. Olabiyi, in particular, was known for his mentorship of young actors and his efforts to professionalize the industry.
TAMPAN has announced plans for a series of memorial events to honor Olabiyi’s contributions to Nollywood. These will include a retrospective of his most iconic roles, as well as a symposium on the future of Nigerian cinema, a cause that was close to the late actor’s heart.
As news of Ayobami Olabiyi’s passing continues to reverberate through the entertainment world, fans and colleagues alike are left to reflect on the indelible mark he left on Nigerian culture. From his unforgettable characters to his tireless work behind the scenes, “Bobo B” embodied the very best of Nollywood.
In the words of one young fan outside the hospital where Olabiyi spent his final days: “Bobo B made us laugh, he made us cry, but most of all, he made us proud to be Nigerian. His stories were our stories, and through him, we saw the best of ourselves reflected on screen.”
As the credits roll on the life of this Nollywood legend, one thing is certain: the laughter and joy he brought to millions will echo for generations to come. Chief Alhaji Musadshir Ayobami Olabiyi may have taken his final bow, but his legacy in Nigerian cinema is eternal.
Nollywood, and indeed Nigeria as a whole, mourns the loss of a true cultural icon. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
