‘A Storyteller to His Bones’

Biyi Bandele who died at 54 on Sunday, left a rich, cross-continental, creative legacy. As young as 14, Bandele showed literary and creative promise. His 40-year career yielded over ten books and five films.

Written by Tomisin Awosika

Aug 10, 2022

Photograpy by Stuart Morris

On Sunday, 07 August 2022, Nigerian author and filmmaker, Biyi Bandele, died in Lagos at the age of 54. His death was confirmed by his daughter, Temi Bandele, who issued a statement on behalf of his family. Bandele’s cause of death is unknown but his daughter explained that it was a sudden and unexpected passing.

The statement read: ‘Biyi was a prodigiously talented writer and film-maker, as well as a loyal friend and beloved father. He was a storyteller to his bones, with an unblinking perspective, singular voice and wisdom which spoke boldly through all of his art, in poetry, novels, plays and on screen. He told stories which made a profound impact and inspired many all over the world. His legacy will live on through his work.’

You’ve Reached Your Limit of Free Reading.

The Republic is a Nigerian media-tech company dedicated to explaining our time—through deeply reported journalism on power, culture and society.

Ad-Free Reading Experience

Focused consumption without interruptions.

Unlimited Access to Exclusive Archives

Years of reporting at your fingertips.

In-Depth Deep-dive Reporting

Long-form journalism that matters.

Create a free account to continue reading this month and access more of our work.

About the Author

Tomisin Awosika

is a junior editor at The Republic.

LinkedInlinkedin.com Xx.com

Comments

SHOP THE REPUBLIC

Southwest Nigeria Is Not ‘Yorubaland’

Equating southwestern Nigeria to Yorubaland is a colonial oversimplification that requires critical re-evaluation. While the Yoruba are a dominant force in the region, the area is also the cultural homeland of the Ogu people, a distinct ethno-linguistic group with their own rich history, language and traditions.

—October 5, 2025

Subscribe to our free newsletter

You're in — welcome to The Republic

Complete your onboarding

Read

Connect

Apps

More

Read

Connect

Apps

More

‘A Storyteller to His Bones’