I almost quit acting over rumours i killed my mentor, says Adebayo Salami

Veteran Nollywood actor Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, has revealed that he once considered quitting acting after false rumours accused him of being responsible for the deaths of his mentor, Ojo Ladipo, popularly known as Baba Mero, and his wife.

Speaking in a recent interview with Feel Right News TV, the 73-year-old actor recalled the emotional hardship he endured following the death of Baba Mero in 1978. He said the situation became even more painful after his mentor’s wife died seven years later.

Salami said unfounded allegations circulated at the time, with some people accusing him of causing the deaths.

“The suffering was a lot and made me conclude that I am not interested in theatre anymore,” he said.

“There was nothing the world did not say about me. They even claimed I was the one killing them.”

Despite the accusations, Salami remained in the theatre industry and took over the leadership of the Awada Kerikeri Theatre Group after the death of Baba Mero, having served as the group’s second-in-command. He said the decision helped preserve his mentor’s legacy and later opened doors to wider recognition.

Salami began his acting career in 1964 and has built a successful career as an actor, producer and director in the Yoruba film industry. His sons, Femi, Tope and Sodiq Adebayo, have also established careers in acting and filmmaking.

The veteran actor recently announced plans to release a new movie to commemorate his 60 years in the entertainment industry.