Few Things You Should Know About Late Nollywood Actor, Charles Olumo ‘Agbako’ Who Died At 101

Veteran actor, Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, popularly known as Agbako is dead.

He reportedly died in the early hours of Thursday after taking a nap and complaining of slight tiredness.

President of Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Bolaji Amusan, also known as Mr Latin announced Agbako’s passing on Instagram.

“TAMPAN Global announces the passing of Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, fondly known as AGBAKO,” Amusan wrote.

Below Are Few Things To Know About Him

• Agbako’s passing marks the end of an era, as he was one of the oldest actors in Nigeria’s film industry. In an interview with Punch earlier this year, he expressed astonishment at his longevity, attributing it to divine mercy rather than any charms, despite widespread assumptions due to his on-screen villain roles.
• His iconic stage name, “Agbako,” came from his role in the movie Anikura, where he played a feared villain. The name stuck and became synonymous with his fierce character, though he always clarified that his fearsome roles were just an act.
• Agbako’s acting journey began in his hometown of Egba Owode, Ogun State where he started acting as a young child. His career grew as he worked alongside Nollywood pioneers like Hubert Ogunde and Ade Love, contributing to the foundation of Yoruba cinema
• Known for his friendly nature, Agbako mentored many young actors in the industry. He maintained strong relationships with notable actors like Mama Rainbow, Foluke Daramola, and Kunle Afod, among others who looked up to him for advice and inspiration.
• In 2015, Agbako addressed rumours surrounding his relationship with legendary Fuji musician Wasiu Alabi Odetola, aka Pasuma. He clarified that he once dated Pasuma’s mother, Alhaja Adijat Kuburat Odetola when the Fuji star was just a toddler. Agbako recalled that his then-girlfriend would often bring her son to the film set, leading him to jokingly refer to himself as Pasuma’s father.
• He had a close friendship with the Juju music legend, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey, a bond dating back to their shared roots in Egbaland.
• Although he was raised as a Muslim, Agbako embraced aspects of Christianity at one point, which was influenced by his participation in church dramas and his family. He ultimately returned to Islam and even went on pilgrimage to Mecca, yet he maintained respect for both faiths.
• At 101, Agbako followed a daily routine of light exercise, drinking plenty of water, and maintaining a modest diet. Despite this, he attributed his longevity to divine intervention rather than any specific health practices.
• During his time, Agbako was vocal about the lack of support for veterans in Nigeria’s entertainment sector. He noted that former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun once assisted, yet he felt more government recognition was warranted given his contributions to the industry and national culture.
• Agbako lived humbly and expressed no regrets about his modest lifestyle, finding joy in his small bungalow. He often said he felt fulfilled and had no “unfulfilled dreams,” except perhaps the call for better support for fellow entertainers.
• Agbako’s acting career spanned nearly a century, with performances that were both intense and memorable.