Solomon Akiyesi Biography
Solomon Akiyesi was a Nigerian actor, producer, and director from Ososo in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State. He built a career in Nollywood that lasted more than three decades and appeared in well over one hundred films. His work stood out for its natural style and reliability across many different roles and genres.
Akiyesi earned respect in the industry through consistent performances and a commitment to quality storytelling. He transitioned successfully from acting to production and directing while also taking on leadership roles that supported fellow creatives. His contributions helped shape Nollywood during its growth phases and left a lasting mark on Nigerian cinema.
Solomon Akiyesi Early Life and Background
Solomon Akiyesi was born and raised in the Ososo community located in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. He came from a large family as the tenth of twelve children. This setting exposed him to strong community values and cultural traditions that influenced his later life and work. He completed his primary and secondary education in Ososo, obtaining the First School Leaving Certificate and the West African School Certificate.
Following secondary school, he gained admission to the University of Ibadan, where he studied Theatre Arts. The program sharpened his skills in performance techniques, voice control, and dramatic expression. These formative years in Ososo and at university laid a solid groundwork for his professional journey in the entertainment world. The discipline and cultural awareness he developed during this period remained visible in his approach to roles throughout his acting career.
Solomon Akiyesi Career
Solomon Akiyesi joined the Nigerian film industry in the mid-1990s at a time when Nollywood was expanding rapidly through video film productions. His first major appearance came in the 1995 movie Deadly Affair, which introduced him to a broad audience and launched his long screen presence. He went on to feature in more than one hundred films, building a reputation as a versatile and dependable performer who could handle lead roles as well as strong supporting parts.
His acting style featured subtle expressions and natural delivery that brought authenticity to every character. He appeared comfortably in action stories, romantic dramas, epic productions, and everyday comedies. Over the years, he shared scenes with many prominent actors and contributed depth to ensemble casts. Some of the notable titles in his extensive filmography include Marry Who You Love, Kiss My Pain, Heart of a Saint, Desperate Ladies, Bridge of Contract, Joy of Nakasha, Princess Nakasha, Jungle Justice, Deadly Proposal, Dumebi the Dirty Girl, Show Down, The End Is Near, Pretty Liars, Olaedo the Fisher Girl 2, and the more recent Gen Z Wife. These projects highlighted his ability to adapt to changing industry trends while maintaining high standards.
Beyond performing, Akiyesi expanded into other areas of filmmaking. He established Actitude Media and took on the role of CEO for the Solomon Akiyesi Intervention Commission. These ventures supported creative projects and helped develop new talent. He also held important positions such as President of the National Association of Ososo Creatives and served on the board of the Actors Guild of Nigeria. In these capacities, he mentored upcoming artists and worked to improve professional practices within the industry. He additionally engaged in brand ambassadorship and public relations work that complemented his artistic efforts. His multifaceted involvement kept him active well into the 2020s and demonstrated a deep commitment to the growth of Nigerian entertainment.
Solomon Akiyesi Personal Life
Solomon Akiyesi had a personal life that often drew public interest due to multiple marriages. His first marriage was to Ezinne and ended around the year 2000. Later relationships received heavy media coverage. A notable incident occurred in April 2013 when a planned wedding to Uloma Agwu in Lagos faced disruption. At that time, his then-wife Lilian Akiyesi, who was eight months pregnant, arrived at the Overcomers Church World Outreach venue in Surulere with family members. Church leaders eventually cancelled the ceremony. Akiyesi later offered a public apology regarding the events.
Reports indicated he entered additional marriages over time, leading some media outlets to refer to him as a serial husband. His final known wife was Pretty Owabie Doris. Despite the attention these matters attracted, Akiyesi maintained focus on his professional responsibilities and family connections in Ososo. He was regarded by colleagues as someone who remained articulate and principled in industry interactions, keeping most private affairs away from the spotlight when possible.
Solomon Akiyesi Recent News
Solomon Akiyesi passed away on April 26, 2026, in Abuja. According to reports, he died peacefully in his sleep. The Actors Guild of Nigeria President, Abubakar Yakubu, confirmed the news on April 27 and noted that the actor had gone to bed normally but did not wake up. His remains were taken to a mortuary in Abuja while the family prepared further arrangements.
The announcement brought an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, guild leaders including former president Dr. Emeka Rollas-Ejezie, and fans who appreciated his decades of contributions. His wife Pretty Owabie Doris also acknowledged the passing. As of late April 2026, details about funeral plans were still being finalized by the family. The sudden loss created a wave of mourning across the Nollywood community.
Conclusion
Solomon Akiyesi built an impressive legacy through dedication to his craft and support for the broader creative sector. Starting with his breakthrough in Deadly Affair and continuing through modern releases like Gen Z Wife, he demonstrated remarkable consistency and adaptability across more than thirty years. His additional work as a producer, director, and industry leader extended his positive influence beyond individual performances.
Although aspects of his personal life generated public discussion, his professional record centers on entertaining audiences and uplifting fellow talents. He represented the cultural pride of Ososo and Edo State while contributing to Nollywood’s development from its video film roots to its current form. His body of work will continue to reach viewers for years to come, and he will be remembered as a veteran who brought reliability and depth to Nigerian cinema. His passing closes a significant chapter but leaves behind films and memories that celebrate a life devoted to storytelling.
FAQs
Who was Solomon Akiyesi?
Solomon Akiyesi was a veteran Nigerian actor, producer, and director recognized for his long service in Nollywood. He appeared in over one hundred films and played important roles in industry organizations.
Where was Solomon Akiyesi born?
He was born and brought up in Ososo community in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria.
What movies is Solomon Akiyesi known for?
He delivered memorable performances in many productions including Deadly Affair from 1995, Olaedo the Fisher Girl 2, Gen Z Wife, Pretty Liars, Kiss My Pain, Heart of a Saint, Desperate Ladies, Bridge of Contract, Marry Who You Love, Jungle Justice, and The End Is Near, among numerous others.
Was Solomon Akiyesi married?
Yes. He had several marriages during his lifetime. His first wife was Ezinne, followed by Lilian and others, with Pretty Owabie Doris as his last known wife. Some of these relationships attracted considerable media attention.
When did Solomon Akiyesi die?
He passed away on April 26, 2026, while in Abuja. The Actors Guild of Nigeria confirmed the news the next day, stating that he died peacefully in his sleep.
Did Solomon Akiyesi attend university?
Yes. After finishing secondary school in Ososo, he studied Theatre Arts at the University of Ibadan. This education provided essential training for his successful acting career.