By Habeeb Ibrahim
Veteran Nollywood actor and National Secretary of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Alhaji Mudashiru Olabiyi Ayobami, popularly known as Bobo B, has passed away after a brief illness.
The actor, who was diagnosed with a non-terminal disease, was pronounced dead by medical experts on October 16, 2024, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Bobo B’s passing was confirmed by Bolaji Amusan, widely known as Mr. Latin, the President of TAMPAN, who described the loss as tremendous for the creative industry.
He praised Bobo B’s contributions, dedication, and leadership within the entertainment sector, noting that his absence would be deeply felt.
Alhaji Mudashiru was a key figure in the development of Nigeria’s theatre arts scene. Originally a teacher for over 16 years, he left the profession to pursue acting full-time in 1993.
Over the decades, he became a revered figure in Nollywood, with numerous films to his credit, including “Ewolewo” and “Olaniyanu,” the latter of which catapulted him into stardom. He also played significant roles in the administration of the industry, serving as the National Secretary of ANTP and later, TAMPAN.
In a reflective piece, Bobo B shared his journey within the industry, recounting how he began his administrative career in 1994 when he was nominated from Oyo State to join the caretaker committee of the Association of Nigeria Theatre Art Practitioners (ANTP).
He played a pivotal role in drafting the first constitution and registering the association. He later became the National General Secretary of ANTP from 2001 to 2005, before continuing his leadership role in TAMPAN after its establishment in 2014, serving as the first elected National General Secretary from 2014 to 2018.
His colleagues, fans, and the creative community have begun to mourn his loss, while plans for his funeral are expected to be announced soon.
