Veteran Nollywood actor Chief Alhaji Musadshir Ayobami Olabiyi, popularly known as Bobo B, has passed away in Ibadan, Oyo State. Olabiyi, a well-respected figure in the industry, was reportedly ill and hospitalized at the University Teaching Hospital in Ibadan.
Sources indicate that the actor, who had been scheduled to participate in a movie production in Oyo last month, was unable to attend due to his declining health. It was revealed that he had been unable to speak or move during his hospitalization, leading to concerns about his condition.
Until his death, Olabiyi held the position of national secretary for the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), a role that highlighted his significant contribution to Nollywood. He also served as the former governor of the Oyo State chapter of the association, further cementing his influence in the Nigerian film industry. His death has left many in Nollywood grieving the loss of a key figure.
The news of his passing was officially confirmed by Bose Akinola, the governor of TAMPAN in Oyo State. In a heartfelt statement, she expressed the sorrow of the entire TAMPAN family, stating, “I have a directive of the Oyo State TAMPAN governor, her excellency Yeye Bose Akinola to announce the death of our TAMPAN National General Secretary, Chief Alhaji Musadshir Ayobami Olabiyi ‘Bobo B’. May God give his family and the entire TAMPAN members globally the fortitude to bear the loss. Insha Allah, Amen.”
The actor’s death has sent shockwaves through Nollywood, with many industry colleagues paying tribute to his legacy. Movie producer Stanley Nwoke, known as Stanley Ontop, also shared the sad news on Instagram, expressing his sorrow over the loss. “Nollywood is grieving the passing of Big Larry,” he wrote, though he did not elaborate on the exact cause of Olabiyi’s death.