Veteran actor Alhaji Tajudeen Oyewole, popularly known as Abija, expressed gratitude for his life and career while reflecting on over five decades in acting during an exclusive interview with the City People Magazine team.
Abija, renowned for his iconic roles in Yoruba war films, shared that he remains active and regularly attends movie sets. He recently featured in a Kunle Afolayan film. However, he also mentioned that a movie he has been planning is yet to be produced due to a lack of funding.
Reflecting on his career, Abija recounted how his famous name came about and his journey into the film industry. His acting career began in 1972 when Chief Akin Ogungbe, a prominent theatre director, came to Osogbo. Abija joined his troupe and spent four years touring with the group, experiencing the many challenges of life as a theatre artist.
His breakthrough role came in the movie Opa Aje, where he was cast as Abija, a character that became synonymous with his name. He credited divine protection for keeping him safe throughout the years, especially during the production of the film in 1986. Abija went on to star in several notable films, including Opon Aye, Koto Orun, and Koto Aye.
The actor also opened up about personal struggles, including the trauma he suffered following his wife’s death, and a difficult period when he contemplated suicide. Nonetheless, he shared some of his happiest moments, such as his journey to Mecca, an unexpected incident that restored his faith in life.
Drawing from his life experiences,, Abija advised people to remain prayerful, show kindness to others, and never underestimate themselves. “Be kind and merciful to those who don’t have,” he emphasized, encouraging everyone to resist harbouring ill will toward others.
Watch the full interview on the City People TV YouTube page.
Promise Babatunde
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