A veteran of the old Nollywood and Yoruba theatre industry, Olaye Ishola Sulaiman Oladimeji, popularly known as Bashiru Ishola or Ajere, has made startling revelations about two of Nigeria’s most iconic theatre legends, Moses Olaiya Adejumo, famously known as Baba Sala, and late Chief Hubert Ogunde.
Speaking in a recent interview, Ajere revealed that the two theatrical greats were once the best of friends before their relationship turned sour.
According to him, Baba Sala and Ogunde became sworn enemies after Baba Sala allegedly “snatched” a woman named Kari Ile from Ogunde.
Ajere narrated that Kari Ile, who had been working with Ogunde, was a talented dancer and performer. “They might have been going out together, but Baba Sala fell in love with her because she was a very good dancer,” he revealed.
He further explained that in those days, it was common for dramatists to marry several wives to enable them fill female roles in their plays. “Theatrists marry many wives because they want their wives to help them act women’s roles,” he said.
However, Ajere noted that the two legends later reconciled before their deaths, adding, “Ogunde and Baba Sala eventually settled their disputes before they both died.”
Turning to the present-day movie industry, the veteran actor commended celebrated filmmaker and actor, Kunle Afolayan, for his professionalism and generosity in remunerating artistes.
“Kunle Afolayan pays actors and actresses very well. He paid me the highest fee I’ve ever received, one million naira. He is a good person,” Ajere stated.
Ajere identified himself as a traditional worshipper and healer, disclosing that he devoted two decades to learning indigenous medicine.
“I am a traditional healer. It took me 20 years to learn charms and traditional medicine. I have the power to set free anybody under the bondage of witches, wizards, or any evil power,” he said confidently.
Bashiru Ishola’s revelations offer a rare glimpse into the personal lives and behind-the-scenes drama of Nigeria’s pioneering theatre icons, while also shedding light on his journey as an actor and traditional healer.
