LERE PAIMO: Nigerian Actor , Filmmaker,The pioneer of Yoruba Language Cinema

Lere Paimo 

Lere Paimo, popularly known as Eda Onile, is a veteran Nigerian actor and filmmaker recognized as one of the pioneers of Yoruba-language cinema. With a career spanning several decades, he remains one of the most respected elders in the Yoruba movie industry.

Early Life and Background

Lere Paimo was born on November 19, 1939, in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, Nigeria. He grew up in a culturally rich Yoruba environment that deeply influenced his artistic expression.

From a young age, Lere Paimo showed interest in traditional storytelling and stage drama. During his early years, theatre was one of the most popular forms of entertainment, and he was drawn to it.

Entry into Theatre and Acting

Lere Paimo began his acting career in the 1960s through travelling theatre groups, which were the foundation of modern Yoruba cinema. He worked with prominent theatre practitioners who helped shape the Yoruba dramatic tradition.

He gained the nickname “Eda Onile” after playing a powerful and memorable role in a film of the same name. The name became his identity and brand within the industry.

Rise in Yoruba Cinema

During the 1970s and 1980s, Lere Paimo became one of the most recognized faces in Yoruba films. His performances were deeply rooted in culture, tradition, and moral storytelling.

He often played roles such as:

Traditional chiefs

Village elders

Spiritual characters

Wise patriarchs

His ability to portray traditional roles convincingly earned him respect among audiences.

Notable Movies

Lere Paimo has featured in numerous Yoruba films and stage productions. Some of his notable works include:

Eda Onile

Oba Koso

Agogo Eewo

Several epic Yoruba cultural films

His roles often emphasized moral lessons and cultural preservation.

Contribution to Yoruba Film Industry

Lere Paimo is regarded as one of the pioneers who transitioned Yoruba theatre into film production. Before the modern Nollywood structure, actors like him laid the groundwork for storytelling in local languages.

His contributions helped shape the identity of Yoruba cinema as part of Nigeria’s broader film industry.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Lere Paimo has received several awards and honors for his impact on Yoruba arts and culture.

He has been celebrated by cultural organizations and film associations for preserving Yoruba heritage through acting.

Marriage and Family Life

Lere Paimo is married and blessed with children and grandchildren. He has maintained a relatively private family life, focusing mainly on his artistic contributions.

He is known for discipline, humility, and strong cultural values.

Acting Style and Personality

Lere Paimo is admired for his calm delivery, traditional speech patterns, and powerful facial expressions.

He carries himself with dignity and respect, reflecting his senior status in the industry.

Legacy and Influence

Lere Paimo represents the golden era of Yoruba travelling theatre. His generation built the foundation for modern Yoruba Nollywood.

Many younger actors regard him as a mentor and elder statesman of the industry.

Though less active in film compared to his younger years, Lere Paimo remains a respected figure in Yoruba entertainment.

His biography is a story of cultural preservation, dedication, and artistic excellence. From stage drama in the 1960s to becoming a Yoruba cinema icon, Lere Paimo’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.