The rumors began circulating late Friday evening, with entertainment journalist Seun Oloketuyi, Chairman of the Best of Nollywood Awards, posting on Instagram: "Chief Lere Paimo (MON) is dead. Baba died at age 86. A strong man. Baba survived stroke twice. May Baba’s soul rest in peace." This message quickly gained traction, prompting widespread tributes from fans and colleagues across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where Paimo's name trended amid an outpouring of grief.
However, ANTP, the official guild representing Nigerian theater practitioners, issued a firm statement denying the claims. Signed by National Public Relations Officer Prince Adejonwo Oluwafemi Femson, the release affirmed: "Contrary to reports of his death by some media outlets, the actor is still alive and in good health." The association emphasized that Paimo, a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), remains a vibrant figure in the industry and urged the public to disregard unverified information.
This incident marks the third time Paimo has been the subject of premature death rumors, a testament to his enduring legacy and the public's deep affection for him. Born Olalere Osunpaimo in 1939 in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, Paimo began his career in 1958 under the tutelage of legendary playwright Duro Ladipo. He rose to prominence as a leading actor, director, producer, and filmmaker, starring in iconic Yoruba films such as *Saworoide*, *Oleku*, *Agogo Eewo*, *Moremi Ajasoro*, *Sango*, and *Taxi Driver*. As a staunch promoter of Yoruba culture and heritage, he founded Eda Films Ltd., pioneering 16mm productions that laid early groundwork for modern Nollywood.
Paimo's resilience is well-documented; he survived two strokes—in 2013 and another in recent years—yet continued making public appearances and mentoring younger talents. Just last year, on his 85th birthday, filmmaker Kunle Afod renovated Paimo's longtime home in Ogbomosho, transforming it into a modern residence as a gesture of appreciation from the industry.
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