Dayo Ogunde, daughter of theatre legend Hubert Ogunde, has paid a heartfelt tribute to her father on the 35th anniversary of his death.
Ogunde, widely regarded as the father of modern Nigerian theatre, died on April 4, 1990, at a hospital in London.
Marking the anniversary, Dayo shared a photo of her father on Facebook on Friday, reflecting on his lasting impact.
“Today, we remember the memory of an amazing father.
“Thirty-five years have passed since you left us, but your love and legacy continue to inspire us.
“Your presence in our lives was a blessing, and your absence has been a void that we cannot fill.
“We miss you dearly… Your memory will never fade; it will continue to inspire us for generations to come.
“Continue to rest with your maker. OSETURA. Chief Hubert Ogunde,” she wrote.
Hubert Ogunde is also the father of the Anikulapo star actor, Owobo Ogunde.
In 2019, Afolabi Ogunde-Kikiowo, daughter of the late theatre icon, died. His son, George Ogunde, also died later in 2024.
Born on July 10, 1916, in Ososa, Ogun State, Ogunde was a pioneer in Nigerian theatre and film.
His first production, The Garden of Eden, premiered at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos, in 1944.
He later established the Ogunde Theatre Party, Nigeria’s first contemporary professional theatrical company.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ogunde wrote and produced over 50 plays, five films and multiple music albums, using his art to address social and political issues.
He was also the first artistic director of the National Troupe of Nigeria.
Revered as the Wizard of Ososa, his last major project was Mr. Johnson, the first Hollywood film shot on location in Nigeria.
