Nollywood actor Elegbeje Ado, whose real name was Taiwo Adeshina, passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026, at the age of 66 following a brief illness. The news was confirmed by filmmaker Seun Oloketuyi in an emotional Instagram post.
Tributes from Colleagues
Oloketuyi shared a picture of the late actor and 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, stating: "We regret to announce the passing of one of the legends of the Yoruba Nollywood industry, Baba Elegbeje Ado. 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."
Another fan wrote: "Another legend has taken his final bow... The Yoruba movie industry has lost one of its shining stars. Though Elegbede Ado is no longer with us, the memories he created, the laughter he shared, and the remarkable contributions he made to the world of entertainment will continue to live on 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."
Career and Comeback
Elegbeje Ado took his stage name from his breakthrough film, also titled Elegbeje Ado. He achieved widespread fame through roles in movies such as Ageku Abela and Oko Abiku. In 2016, he stepped away from acting to train as a pastor, but returned to the film industry in 2025, focusing on producing Christian movies.
The actor had been outspoken in interviews about being pressured to join secret societies within the entertainment industry. He insisted he rejected such advances, choosing instead to remain steadfast in his Christian faith.
