Professor Kole Omotoso, best known as the Yebo Gogo man from the Vodacom‘s television adverts, has died.
Kole Omotoso passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80. His family confirmed his death in a statement.
“We are mourning the loss of our father, husband and grandfather Professor Bankole ‘Kole’ Omotoso, who passed away after a long period of illness in Joburg on July 19, 2023,” the statement reads.
Many people have since paid tribute to the Nigerian-born academic and playwright.
Vodacom Group CEO Shameel Joosub spoke about his passing and said the company was deeply saddened by the news of Kole Omotoso. He stated that he was one of the country’s most respected academics and playwrights.
“At Vodacom, we remember him as an iconic figure who helped put the brand Vodacom on the map through the inventive ‘YeboGogo’ advertising campaign that went on to win several advertising accolades.
“Professor Kole Omotoso leaves behind a rich legacy, having played a significant role in inserting the brand Vodacom, a brand with deep African roots, in the national conscience. I would also like to offer my personal heartfelt condolences to Prof Kole Omotoso’s family,” Joosub said.
Kole Omotoso studied at King’s College, Lagos, the University of Ibadan, and the University of Edinburgh. He obtained South African citizenship in 1999.
He was married to Marguerita Omotoso, an architect and urban planner, originally from Barbados. The couple have three children, one of them being director and filmmaker Akin Omotoso. Their other offspring is author and architect Yewande Omotoso.
“On behalf of the Vodacom Family, Prof Kole Omotoso will always be remembered for a brand campaign that evoked emotions, created nostalgia and fostered deep connections with customers. Those memories will always be cherished,” Joosub concluded.
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