Lere Paimo Breaks Silence on Pete Edochie Seniority Debate
Setting the Timeline: The 1958 Theatre Era
The Roots of Nollywood and the Traveling Theatre Legacy
A Look Back at Lere Paimo’s Career
For those who may not know much about him, Lere Paimo was born in September 1939 in Oyo State. He joined the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group in 1958, which is where his acting journey truly began. He later moved on to work with the Duro Ladipo Theatre Group, where he featured in big stage productions.
Paimo became a household name through the classic Yoruba epic “Ogbori Elemosho,” where he played the role of Soun Ogunola. That role remains one of the performances he is best remembered for till today. Beyond acting, he has also worked as a trainer for younger performers and is seen as one of the custodians of Yoruba culture and theatre tradition. His work earned him a national honour, the Member of the Order of the Niger, which he received in 2005.
A Quick Look at Lere Paimo’s Career
- Born: September 1939, Oyo State
- Started acting: 1958, with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group
- Later joined: Duro Ladipo Theatre Group, featuring in major stage productions
- Best known role: Soun Ogunola in the classic Yoruba epic “Ogbori Elemosho”
- National honour: Member of the Order of the Niger (awarded 2005)
- Other work: Trainer for younger performers, custodian of Yoruba theatre tradition
By stepping forward to lay out his career timeline today, Baba Eda isn’t just looking for personal validation; he is actively ensuring that the history of the early practitioners who sacrificed to lay the tracks for today’s multi-million naira industries is never erased. This historical preservation is incredibly vital, especially during a week where the entertainment community is already mourning major losses. If you are tracking these monumental industry shifts, make sure to read our recent Olu Jacobs Nollywood Legend passes away at 84 tribute update to see how the passing of another foundational patriarch is bringing the entire creative community together in reflection.
What Fans Are Saying
As expected, this new gist has sparked reactions online. Some fans are excited to see two respected veterans keep the memory of old Nollywood and Yoruba theatre alive through friendly comparison. Others feel this kind of debate helps remind the younger generation that Nigerian entertainment did not start with social media influencers or streaming platforms, but with hardworking theatre groups that toured from town to town decades ago.
It also brings some warmth after the scare fans had late last year, when false reports claimed that Paimo had passed away. Those rumours were quickly dismissed by his colleagues and the Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners, who confirmed he was alive and in good health. Seeing him active enough to join public conversations like this one is proof that Baba Eda is still very much full of life and sharp memory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did Lere Paimo start his acting career?
When did Pete Edochie start acting?
Pete Edochie has said his acting career began in 1962, when he was 15 years old.
How old is Lere Paimo?
Lere Paimo was born in September 1939, making him 86 years old.
What is Lere Paimo best known for?
He is best known for playing Soun Ogunola in the classic Yoruba epic film “Ogbori Elemosho.”
What interview did Lere Paimo address Pete Edochie in?
What national honor does Lere Paimo hold?
Final Thoughts
Whether it is 1958 or 1962 that truly marks the start of modern Nigerian acting seniority, one thing is clear: both Lere Paimo and Pete Edochie have given decades of their lives to entertaining Nigerians and keeping our stories alive on stage and on screen. This kind of friendly back-and-forth only adds more colour to the rich history of Nollywood and Yoruba theatre.
What do you think? Should acting seniority in Nigeria be counted from stage theatre days, or only from the film era? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
