Nollywood actor Elegbeje Ado, whose real name was Taiwo Adeshina, has died at the age of 66 after a brief illness. Filmmaker Seun Oloketuyi announced the death on Instagram on 30 June 2026, stating that the actor passed away on 29 June.
Announcement and Tributes
In an Instagram post alongside a photograph of the actor, Oloketuyi wrote: "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. May God grant you eternal rest and comfort your family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, legend."
Actor Kunle Afod also paid tribute on Facebook, writing: "We regret to announce the passing of one of the legends of the Yoruba Nollywood industry, Baba Elegbeje Ado." He added: "Your immense contribution to the growth of Yoruba cinema, your talent, and the joy you brought to countless lives will never be forgotten. Thank you for the beautiful memories and the legacy you left behind. May your soul rest in perfect peace... Rest in peace, Baba Elegbeje Ado. Your legacy lives on forever."
Industry Mourns a Legend
Another tribute read: "Another legend has taken his final bow... The Yoruba film industry has lost one of its brightest talents. While Elegbede Ado is no longer amongst us, the memories he forged, the joy he delivered, and the extraordinary contributions he made to the entertainment world will remain alive in our hearts. His legacy will remain an inspiration to generations of actors, filmmakers, and fans... Rest in perfect peace, Elegbede Ado. Your light will never be forgotten."
Elegbeje Ado adopted his stage name from the film that brought him initial success. He gained widespread recognition for his roles in movies such as Ageku Abela and Oko Abiku. After a hiatus, he retrained as a pastor in 2016 but returned to acting in 2025.
