PHOTO: Final moments of Gospel actor Moses Korede Are ‘Baba Gbenro’

By Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi

Evangelist Moses Korede Are, founder of Calvary Drama Ministries and revered figure in Nigeria’s gospel drama industry, is dead.

He died following a prolonged struggle with liver disease.

In his final moments, he was surrounded by close friends and family, who recall his emotional last words: “Stay by my side, I want to rest.”

Known as “Baba Gbenro” for his role in Mount Zion’s Abattoir series, Evangelist Are’s last hours were marked by a great sense of peace.

According to Pastor Niyi Adebayo, lead pastor of True Worshippers Church, who was present at Are’s bedside, the evangelist made the simple, humble request to stop the prayers and stay by his side.

Just minutes later, at 8:10 a.m., he took his final breath and “went home to be with God.”

Fellow gospel filmmakers, including Evangelist Mike Bamiloye of Mount Zion Faith Ministries, honoured Are’s final moments and spoke about his enduring passion

Bamiloye recalled how, even during his last days, Are expressed his passion for his work and encouraged his colleagues to continue with gospel projects.

“He didn’t know he had shot his last movie and had gone on his last movie location,” Bamiloye reflected, sharing an emotional message about the unpredictability of life’s “closing time.”

Are, celebrated for his impactful Godly dramas such as Owo Blow, Igbeyawo Aiye, and Emi Mi M’oke, inspired countless viewers across Nigeria.

His dramas, rooted in messages of faith and morality, touched lives nationwide, leaving a legacy that will continue to resonate in the gospel film community.

Evangelist Oluwaseun Adejumobi, another gospel actor and producer, broke the news on social media, honouring Are with the words, “A General Has Gone to Rest.”

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon as tributes pour in from across the country.