Baba Sala 'The Godfather of Nigerian Comedy' Has Died
The legendary comedian and actor is being remembered for his unique contribution to the arts.
Legendary Nigerian comedian and actor Moses Olaiya, better known by his stage name Baba Sala died in his sleep on Monday. He was 81.
His son Emmanuel Adejumo, announced his passing in a Facebook post on Monday, according to Sahara Reporters. "My Daddy is gone. Finally gone home to glory. King of Comedy finally says bye-bye to this world," he wrote.
The comedian, considered the "Godfather of Nigerian Comedy" starred in several films throughout his extensive career. He produced his first film, Òrun Móoru (Heaven is Hot) in 1982 and several thereafter. Olaiya helped popularize television and theater acting in Nigeria along with a host of other famous Nigerian actors including Hubert Ogunde , Kola Ogunmola, Oyin Adejobi and Duro Ladipo.
Before forging an impressive career in theater and filmmaking, the entertainer began his career as a highlife musician as part of the group The Federal Rhythm Dandies, and even trained the celebrated Nigerian jújú musician King Sunny Ade.
Tributes have poured out for the legendary comedian online, with man remembering his unique contribution to the arts.
And the The Grandfather of Comedy Answers the Final Call! May the soul of Moses Olaiya Adejumo (Baba Sala) rest in… https://t.co/3tde9ULOvl— Onigegewura (@Onigegewura)1538985709.0
"The legendary Nigerian comedian, dramatist and actor passed away in his sleep yesterday aged 82. His larger than… https://t.co/NpFSg0iidf— Olufemi AWOYEMI (@Olufemi AWOYEMI)1538996444.0
Rest On Baba Sala. You gave us so much to laugh about. Thanks for the good times. https://t.co/Sg3HRdtWMP— NASO E BI (@NASO E BI)1539000018.0
RIP Pa Moses Adeyemo aka Baba Sala. Originator and Grand commander of Naija Comedy. Grew up watching him in that B&… https://t.co/WaZbsfI9No— Akorede (@Akorede)1538988698.0
We pay tribute to Moses Olaiya (a.k.a Baba Sala), who died on Sunday 7 October, 2018 to whom Wole Soyinka dedicated… https://t.co/l6FcgNKhEB— bookcraftafrica (@bookcraftafrica)1539009735.0
And I will repeat it here. Baba Sala (Moses Olaiya) was not a 'Veteran' but a legend, a pioneer and a trailblazer.… https://t.co/TtpSWUDMWZ— Molara Wood (@Molara Wood)1538984474.0
@TunjiLardner Sir, those were the times. Life’s comedy was simple, hmmmmmmm😇🇳🇬RIP Baba Sala— Yinka Akindayomi (@Yinka Akindayomi)1539003301.0
~ Baba Sala, RIP to an icon.— director D. (@director D.)1539004488.0
