JUST-IN: Veteran Actress, Iyabo Oko, Dies At 62

In a tragic turn of events, the Yoruba movie industry has been thrown into mourning as veteran actress Sidikat Odunkanwi, better known as Iyabo Oko, passed away at the age of 62. The renowned actress, who had battled with ill-health for some time, seemingly made a recovery before her demise.

Iyabo Oko, who was a prominent figure in the Yoruba movie circle, breathed her last on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. The news of her passing was shared by her celebrity daughter, Bisi Aisha, through a heartfelt post on her Facebook page. Aisha wrote, “May your soul Rest In Peace mummy,” confirming the sad news.

This heartbreaking news comes after a previous false rumor of Iyabo Oko’s passing last year, which was later refuted by her daughter, Bisi Aisha, who reassured fans that her mother was alive and well. However, this time, the loss is unfortunately confirmed.

Foluke Daramola-Salako, a popular actress known for her advocacy of elderly thespians and their welfare, also took to her Instagram page to express her grief and confirm Iyabo Oko’s death. Daramola-Salako wrote, “And finally we lost her… rip Iyabo Oko, we did our best but God knows best.”

Born on November 15, 1960, in Iwo Local Government Area of present-day Osun State, Iyabo Oko held various stage names such as “Iyabo Oko,” “Apoti Aje,” and “Sisi Mama.” Last year, one of her daughters, Olamide, revealed that her mother had been diagnosed with an ischaemic stroke approximately five years ago but had kept her health struggles away from the public eye.

During her career, Iyabo Oko garnered immense respect and support from her colleagues in the Yoruba movie industry. Notable actors including Iyabo Ojo, Bolaji Amusan, Mercy Aigbe, Foluke Daramola, and Biodun Okeowo, among others, had previously provided financial assistance to help her through challenging times.

The passing of Iyabo Oko has left a significant void in the entertainment industry, with her fans and colleagues mourning the loss of an iconic actress. Her contributions to the Yoruba movie industry will be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors to come. May her soul rest in eternal peace.