Five interesting facts about Charles Olumo “Agbako”

Alhaji Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, popularly known as Charles Olumo or Agbako, was an iconic Nigerian actor who passed away on October 31, 2024, at the remarkable age of 101.

His decades-long career in the Yoruba movie industry left an indelible mark on Nollywood. Here are 5 key things to know about this legendary figure:

1. His names Charles Olumo and Agbako are not his biological name

The legendary actor who was popularly known as Charles Olumo or Agbako had his birth name as Abdulsalam Sanyaolu. His name Charles was given to him after baptism to christianity in a church in Lagos.

However, he reconverted back to Islam years later. Also, Olumo was a name given to him during a stage play because he was from Ogun state. Ogun state is known for the famous mountain site, Olumo Rock. Hence, he used Olumo to mean a fearfully moulded deity or god while on stage.

READ ALSO: Foluke Daramola, other Nollywood stars celebrate Agbako at 100

On the other hand, Agbako was a stage name he gave himself when he took up the lead role for the film— Anikura. The lead character was a fearful and wicked one so he noted that by adding Agbako to the name Anikura, it would make it more fierce and dreadful. Ever since then, the name had yielded him more roles and accolades.

2. He was one of the pioneers of Yoruba drama and cinema

Charles Olumo was a pioneer of Yoruba cinema. He helped to shape the industry and elevate it to new heights. His dedication and talent paved the way for future generations of actors and because of his legacy along with others, we still have a solid Yoruba Cinema actively running and projecting the Yoruba heritage and culture.

3. Agbako was the oldest Yoruba actor alive

A centenarian actor, Olumo, was the oldest active actors in Nigeria, celebrating his 101th birthday in July, 2024. In April, 2024, he was still called by a film producer, Doyin Amodu, to be a cast in her film production. His longevity and continued passion for acting were truly inspiring and his name is on the lips of many as he passed away.

Asides acting, he was a mechanic

Charles Olumo, AKA Agbako, was also a mechanic when he was not acting. In an interview with a news source, he revealed that he learnt automobile technician when he had finished his primary school in Egba Owode, Ogun state. So, he could repair bikes and other automobile when he was not on stage.

He started his acting career at age seven

In an interview with a news firm, Agbako noted that he began his acting career at age seven while still in primary school in Egba Owode, in the Obafemi-Owode Local government of Ogun state.

His passion for acting came when he witnessed someone acted as Joseph during a church harvest and he said he could have acted the role better. Truly, he was a real actor as he delivered every script he was given.

Throughout his career, Olumo portrayed a wide range of characters, from the wise elder to the mischievous trickster. His versatility and ability to seamlessly switch between roles made him a beloved figure in the industry.

READ ALSO: Veteran Nollywood actor Agbako passes away at 101

Agbako’s legacy extends far beyond his on-screen performances. He was a beloved figure who brought joy and laughter to millions of fans. His contributions to Nollywood will be remembered for generations to come.