The Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has dismissed reports claiming that veteran Yoruba actor and cultural icon, Chief Olalere OsunPaimo, popularly known as Lere Paimo, is dead.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Adejonwo Oluwafemi, the association described the viral posts circulating on Facebook as false and mischievous. OsunPaimo, who is widely known as Baba Eda Onile Ola in the Nigerian film industry, remains alive and in good health, the group affirmed.
“We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are false,” ANTP said, adding that confirmation had been obtained directly from the actor’s wife.
According to the statement, “We have confirmed with Baba Eda Onile Ola’s wife that he is alive and in good health. Please disregard these false reports and be aware that they are being spread by unscrupulous individuals.”
The association criticised those responsible for spreading the rumour and cautioned the public against disseminating unverified claims, stressing that such actions contribute to widespread misinformation.
“We urge everyone to verify information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation,” ANTP added.
