Dejumo Lewis (1943–2023) was a celebrated Nigerian film and television actor best remembered for his iconic portrayal of the Kabiyesi (village chief) in The Village Headmaster, Nigeria’s longest-running television soap opera. The series aired on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) from 1968 to 1988 and became a defining staple of early Nigerian television, starring notable actors such as Justus Esiri and Femi Robinson.
Lewis’s calm authority, dignified bearing, and distinctive delivery made the Kabiyesi one of the most recognisable characters on Nigerian screens. His performance helped anchor The Village Headmaster as a cultural touchstone, reflecting post-independence Nigerian society and village life for two decades.
Beyond television, Dejumo Lewis also appeared in contemporary Nigerian films, including A Place in the Stars (2014) and Power of 1 (2018), demonstrating his enduring relevance across generations of Nollywood storytelling.
He passed away in December 2023 at the age of 80, prompting tributes from colleagues, fans, and cultural commentators who hailed him as a pioneer of Nigerian television drama and a symbol of its golden era.
