Oyo Assembly Urges State Government to Honor Yoruba Theatre Legend, Chief Lere Paimo, Others

The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed a motion to honor and celebrate veteran Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, popularly known as Eda Onile Ola, for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of Yoruba culture through theatre.

The Oyo State House of Assembly made the call today, Wednesday at its Yoruba plenary session while deliberating on a motion presented in by the Majority Leader, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin (Ogbomoso South).

The Motion urged the State Government to recognize and honor the Octogenarian Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, Eda Onile-Ola, who is among the oldest in the industry.

It further called on the State Government to honor other veteran actors who have made impacts in the theatre industry.

While highlighting Eda Onile-Ola’s remarkable career and his role in showcasing Yoruba culture and values through his performances, the House noted that Chief Paimo’s dedication to the arts has helped to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

Hon. Adedoyin in the Motion commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration for its commitment to sustaining and promoting Yoruba culture, citing various cultural initiatives spearheaded by the Government.

He noted that while efforts have been made in festivals and tourism development, traditional Yoruba theatre—once a stronghold of cultural storytelling—is gradually fading.

The Motion also urged the State Government to support the production of traditional Yoruba plays that promote wisdom and good character, and ensure their integration into cultural tourism.

It equally plans to hold a special plenary in honour of the theatre icon, and called for the funding of documentaries and exhibitions showcasing Chief Lere Paimo’s work.

“Yoruba culture is rich, and theatre is one of our strongest mediums to educate, entertain, and preserve our traditions. It is essential to recognize and support those who have dedicated their lives to ensuring these values do not disappear, one of thm is Chief Lere Paimo popularly called Eda Onile-Ola.” Hon. Adedoyin stated.

He further lamented that modern film productions have lost touch with Yoruba ethics, often promoting foreign influences instead of showcasing the moral values embedded in indigenous Yoruba storytelling.

Hon. Adedoyin emphasized the importance of preserving theatre as a medium for educating younger generations on Yoruba values, saying, “Our ancestors taught us through storytelling, and legends like Chief Lere Paimo have carried this torch. We must support them and ensure that Yoruba cultural expressions continue to thrive.”

The Oyo State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, acknowledged the contributions of Yoruba actors and assured that the Assembly would take necessary steps to ensure the implementation of the resolutions contained in the motion.