By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Yoruba film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor and pastor, Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado, who died after a brief illness.
According to multiple reports, Adeshina passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026, after battling a short illness. News of his death surfaced on Tuesday, triggering an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans and members of the Yoruba entertainment community.
A widely shared tribute announcing his passing described the late actor as a beloved legend whose remarkable contributions to the Yoruba movie industry would never be forgotten.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Pastor Taiwo Adeshina (Elegbeje Ado), a beloved Nollywood legend, who passed away after a brief illness on June 29, 2026. Your remarkable contributions to the Yoruba movie industry and the lives you touched will never be forgotten,” the statement read.
Before his death, Adeshina had reportedly been facing health challenges, with reports indicating that he was receiving treatment for kidney-related complications. News of his illness had prompted prayers and support from colleagues and admirers across the entertainment industry.
Widely recognised by his stage name Elegbeje Ado, Adeshina built a reputation as one of the respected faces in Yoruba-language films, appearing in numerous productions over the years.
Beyond acting, he was also known for his work as a Christian pastor, balancing ministry with a career that endeared him to generations of movie lovers.
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in across social media, with fellow actors, filmmakers and fans celebrating his dedication to the Yoruba film industry and the impact he made both on and off the screen.
Many described him as a humble, gifted and deeply spiritual man whose legacy would continue to inspire younger generations.
His death adds to a series of recent losses that have shaken Nigeria’s entertainment industry in recent months, particularly within the Yoruba movie sector, which has bid farewell to several veteran performers in 2026.
