Oguntokun died in Canada on Wednesday aged 57.
The International Writers Association (IWA) has expressed profound sadness at the passing of celebrated Nigerian playwright, Wole Oguntokun.
Oguntokun died in Canada on Wednesday aged 57.
Not only was he known for his incisive plays that often tackled pressing social issues, he was also famous as a producer and director.
Before he relocated to Canada, he had created the annual Season of Soyinka, which is entering its 9th season. In each season, the plays of the Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, are staged at Terra Kulture in Lagos.
In a statement issued by Wole Adedoyin, Acting President of the IWA, Oguntokun was remembered as a towering figure in African theatre, a prolific writer, and a passionate advocate for the arts.
Born Oluwolé Oguntokun on July 15, 1967, Oguntokun's life was dedicated to the stage.
IWA noted that Oguntokun excelled as a playwright, dramaturge, and director. His artistic leadership was instrumental in shaping Theatre Planet Studios and Renegade Theatre, both pillars of the Nigerian theatre scene.
He further extended his influence as a board member of Theaurtle, a respected Canadian theatre company.
IWA said, “Oguntokun's talents extended beyond the stage. He was a respected theatre administrator and a thoughtful newspaper columnist, his writing enriching public discourse.”
“He leaves behind a remarkable legacy,” it said.
It continued, “Oguntokun's achievements extended internationally. At the 2008 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, he made history by directing and producing "Fringe" and "The Tarzan Monologues" with Renegade Theatre, marking the first time Nigerian plays graced this prestigious global platform.
“He was also a driving force behind three impactful Muson Festival Plays: "The Gods Are Not To Blame" (2006), "An Ordinary Legacy" (2012), and his own adaptation of Cyprian Ekwensi's "Jagua Nana" (2014).
“Oguntokun's dedication to his craft was recognized by the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners (NANTAP). He received their Award for Excellence in November 2012 and an Arts Patron Award in November 2013.
“The IWA joined the global arts community in mourning the loss of Wole Oguntokun. His vibrant spirit, creative genius, and unwavering commitment to theatre will be deeply missed.”