A veteran Nigerian actor, dramatist, folk singer, poet and playwright, Jimi Solanke, has passed away at the age of 82.
He breathed his last on Monday while being transferred to Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Ogun State.
Solanke, survived by his wife, Toyin Solanke, held a meeting with some Remo Stakeholders the night before he died.
Solanke, born on July 4, 1942 in Ipara Remo, started his artistic journey as a pioneer member of the Orisun Theatre Group, founded by the renowned Wole Soyinka in 1961.
He has contributed to the global entertainment industry for seven decades now, leaving an indelible mark on several platforms from the Western Nigeria Television in the 1960s to International Festival in Senegal and Algeria during the 1970s.
Solanke’s captivating theatrical brilliance and stagecraft earned him recognitions and accolades, both locally and internationally.
His versatility was portrayed through his epic performances such as “Kurunmi”, “Death and the King’s Horseman”, “The Divorce”, “Ovaranmen Nogbaisi”, and “Kongi’s Harvest”.
The New York Times recognised him as the star of an “Excellent Troupe” during a performance of Wole Soyinka’s “Kongi’s Harvest”.
Fondly called Baba Agba, Solanke was more than just an actor.
Also Read:
- AEDC notifies customers of gradual power restoration after system disturbance
- IBEDC reconnects UCH after 100 days of power outage
- Hospitalisation of 10 students: Polytechnic begins probe
- Tinubu commends Google CEO Sundar Pichai for advancing AI, digital transformation in Nigeria
- Content creators, skit makers get boost in Edo as FG sets up digital hub in Benin
He was a performer, visual artiste, consummate quintessential songwriter, and storyteller extraordinaire.
He was the Founder and Artistic Director of “Ibudo Asa” in Ipara Remo, Remo North Local Government, Ogun State, Nigeria.
The cultural ambassador has left an indelible imprint on the history of African arts as his contributions to the enrichment of the Nation’s cultural heritage will forever be remembered.
Solanke left behind a legacy that transcends borders, resonating in the hearts of those who had the privilege to witness his artistry.
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
