You can only live longer, not forever. Regardless of how long you live on Earth, there is always a final stage: death. Mythically, those who transformed to stones, water, trees, gourds, or entered the ground have likewise experienced nonexistence. There will always be a point when you will cease to exist in human form.
The Yoruba cinema industry has suffered a great blow. Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, also known as ‘Charles Olumo’ or ‘Agbako, has taken his final bow. Agbako, a living icon in Nollywood who worked towards the survival and significance of the industry, died on October 31st, 2024, at the age of 101. The Nollywood celebrity, who had survived numerous missiles from the grim reaper, was lowered to the ground, signaling the end of an era.
As we grieve the loss of Charles Olumo, we must remember that he earned his reputation as one of Nollywood’s most enduring figures. His life and legacy are exceptional, and they serve as a source of inspiration and resonance for aspiring actors as they strive for excellence. The story of Charles Olumo, a young underprivileged boy from Owode village in Ogun State who rose to stardom was inspiring.
Charles Olumo paid the price for stardom. His path through adversity as a poor village boy who learnt repairing of cars in a city where he knew no one and refused to be discouraged was a fantastic example of tenacity. He regarded hurdles and adversity as fuels for success, which turned him into a wonderful actor that has graced our screens for years.
From stage plays to home videos, Olumo was a superb actor who worked hard to portray his character. He became well-known for his unusual portrayals of strong, often severe characters in Yoruba films, garnering him the nickname “Agbako”. Olumo’s dedication to his art and the genuineness with which he approached his roles earned him acclaim and served as an inspiration to young actors.
He earned the nickname ‘Agbako’ for his nasty parts in films. He was better renowned as an evil henchman in films, a role he played with style, grace, and grit. Oluomo was unquestionably the bad man of the Nigerian film business, rising to prominence as the most identifiable antagonist in Yoruba cinema and the most sought-after. If Charles Olumo weren’t portraying a witch doctor, he’d be a henchman known for mischievous and aggressive performances.
Charles Olumo emerged as the principal antagonist in almost every Yoruba film. He was at the height of his career in the 1990s and early 2000s, playing nasty roles with sinister characters and gaining acclaim for his performances. Olumo was a kind-hearted and friendly man in real life, while being demanding and severe, but the character he portrayed in movies prevented people from getting close to him.
EARLY LIFE
Abdulsalam Sanyaolu better known as Charles Olumo was born in Egba-Owode, a village in Ogun State.
EDUCATION LIFE
He attended a public school for his primary education in Egba-Owode, Ogun. He also attended Lisabi Grammar School in Abeokuta, Ogun State for his secondary education.
MARITAL LIFE
Charles Olumo was married to several women. He also has a lots of children. He was also rumored to have dated mother of popular Fuji musician, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma.
CAREER
He did not pursue his education at his dream university, the University of Ibadan. He learned mechanics and practiced at Lagos‘ Tinubu Square for a period. According to reports, he befriended a bunch of performers and quickly became a popular with them due to his lively and hilarious demeanor.
He was an unintentional actor who replaced a lead actor after falling out with the director. This unforeseen opportunity launched his acting career, and he never looked back. He later created the Charles Olumo Theatre, which was filled with Ogun State people. With this company, he participated in a variety of plays and performances, launching a career that would last nearly seven decades.
However, some accounts reported that Charles Olumo became interested in acting after visiting the Apostolic Church in Mushin. He saw a theatrical rehearsal and realized he has a strong urge to act. He began his acting career, and his inherent charisma and ability to entertain swiftly gained him a spot among the performers.
DEATH
Salam Sanyaolu better known as Charles Olumo died on the morning of Thursday, 31st October 2024, at the age of 101.
According to reports, Olumo felt slightly tired, took a nap and never woke up.