Moses Korede Are, the Nigerian gospel actor and producer better known as Baba Gbenro, has passed away.
Are’s death was confirmed by Oluwaseun Adejumobi, his colleague, via Instagram on Thursday.
“Heavens gain again. A general has gone to rest,” he wrote.
In another post, Adejumobi lauded Are, saying that he lived a “purposeful and inspiring life”.
“Rest on Evangelist Moses Korede Are. You lived a worthy life. We are challenged to keep the living rooms right. We are challenged to keep chasing purpose. We are challenge to make eternity our ultimate pursuit,” he added.
Although the cause and date of Are’s death were not disclosed, there are reports he battled a prolonged liver disease.
The 65-year-old was in the gospel film industry for over two decades. He produced, directed, and featured in several films including ‘Abattoir‘ — the Mount Zion Youtube series where he got the stage name ‘Baba Gbenro’.
He also founded a drama ministry in September 1995 called the Calvary Drama Ministry in Ogbomoso, Oyo state.
According to him, the ministry was established with the vision to use drama evangelism as a medium to preach the gospel and bring its messages to life for audiences.
Are served as the CEO of Calvary Movies Television, an online streaming service focused on Christian drama and evangelism.
The actor was born on June 11, 1959, and grew up in a village in Kano, where he received part of his early education.
He is survived by his wife Bamike Rebecca Are and children.