CITIZENS COMPASS— A Yoruba Nollywood actor, Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado, is dead.
Elegbeje Ado, who is also a pastor, died on Monday, June 29, 2026, after a brief illness.
He was 66.
The actor’s death was confirmed by a fellow actor, Kunle Afod, on his Instagram page on Tuesday.
According to Afod, “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.
“We will miss you for the beautiful memories and the legacy you left behind. May your soul rest in perfect peace.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to your family, friends, colleagues, and fans during this difficult time.
Similarly, the founder of Best of Nollywood Awards, Seun Oloketuyi, confirmed his passing in an Instagram post on Tuesday.
Oloketuyi wrote, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Pastor Taiwo Adeshina, a beloved Nollywood legend.
“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. Rest in peace, legend.”
After years in mainstream Nollywood, Adeshina shifted his focus to Christian ministry in 2025. As a pastor, he combined his passion for filmmaking with evangelism, producing faith-based movies.
His first gospel production was Egberun Odun (“One Thousand Years”), marking the beginning of his new mission in Christian filmmaking.
A recent viral video captured Kunle Afod during a visit to Elegbeje Ado who had retired from acting to work in God’s vineyard.
Asked why he retired from acting, Elegbeje Ado said the move was in obedience to the dictates of his creator which he believed was the best for his life.
The late veteran said nothing would ever entice him into acting.
He spent over a decade in the film industry.
