The Vodacom 'Yebo Gogo' actor has died

The Vodacom 'Yebo Gogo' actor has died

Bankole Ajibabi Omotoso, more popularly known as Kole Omotosho, passed away in Johannesburg at the age of 80.

Vodacom 'Yebo Gogo' actor has died
@VictorOladokun/Twitter

Professor Bankole Omotoso's family shared a statement on social media confirming his passing.

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In the post, they shared that Omotoso had suffered a 'long period of illness' before passing away on the 19th of July.

Omotoso became a familiar face to South Africans when he was featured in various iconic Vodacom advertisements in the early 2000s, which are still remembered fondly by many citizens today.

He gained popularity as the 'Yebo Gogo' man and you would often see him on billboards across the nation.

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Although he is originally from Nigeria, he became a South African legend.

Professor Omotoso had to relocate to SA after his extensive works, including the 1988 publication of his book, 'Just Before Dawn', landed him in serious political trouble in his home nation.

In 1991, the renowned professor accepted a lectureship position at the University of the Western Cape and was able to relocate with his family.

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His career included professor positions at the English Department of the University of the Western Cape and the Drama Department of the University of Stellenbosch. He also gained his doctorate from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland.

To reminisce, here are just a few of his most well-known appearances:

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Main image courtesy of @VictorOladokun/Twitter

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