ANTP Debunks Rumours of Lere Paimo’s Death, Confirms Veteran Actor is Alive

The Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has dismissed reports claiming that veteran Nollywood actor Lere Paimo has passed away.

The rumours began after celebrity journalist and Best of Nollywood Awards Chairman, Seun Oleketuyi, announced on Instagram that Paimo, famously known as Baba Eda Onile Ola, had died at the age of 86, citing his previous battles with stroke.

However, in an official statement released on Saturday, ANTP, through its National Public Relations Officer Prince Adejonwo Oluwafemi Femson, confirmed that the actor is alive and in good health. The statement also indicated that Paimo’s wife corroborated the news.

“We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are false. Please disregard these false reports and be aware that they are being spread by unscrupulous individuals,” the statement read. ANTP also urged Nigerians to verify information before sharing to prevent the spread of misinformation.

OPINION: The Dangers of Misinformation in the Digital Age

The premature death rumours surrounding Lere Paimo underscore the perils of unverified news in the age of social media. Even respected journalists and public figures can inadvertently spread false information, which can cause unnecessary panic among fans and tarnish reputations.

This incident serves as a reminder that fact-checking is crucial, especially when reporting on sensitive matters such as health or death. While social media thrives on speed, accuracy should never be sacrificed.

For the public, the episode is a call to exercise caution and responsibility—sharing news without verification can amplify misinformation, erode trust, and create undue stress for the individuals involved and their families.

Lere Paimo remains alive, a testament to his resilience, and a reminder that in today’s digital age, truth must always precede virality.