– Tinubu mourns as Jimi Solanke dies
– Abiodun and others mourn Jimi Solanke.
Foremost Nigerian Artist, Pa Jimi Solanke, Passes Away at 81
Renowned film actor, dramatist, folk singer, poet, and playwright, Pa Jimi Solanke, has sadly passed away at the age of 81. The veteran artist died in his home state of Ogun following illness related to old age. On Monday morning, while being taken to Babcock Hospital, Ilishan-Remo, for medical treatment, Solanke took his last breath.
Pa Jimi Solanke was best known for his popular television program, ‘Storyland’, which aired on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). His passing has left a void in the entertainment and creative industry, with many eminent Nigerians and stakeholders mourning the loss.
A Bastion of Cultural Heritage and Artistry
President Bola Tinubu expressed his sadness over the demise of Pa Jimi Solanke, describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest creative artists and a bastion of the country’s cultural heritage. Tinubu conveyed his condolences to Solanke’s family and all those affected by this painful loss, praying for the peaceful repose of the beloved departed.
The Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, also expressed his condolences, stating that Solanke’s death is a colossal loss to the theatre community and the state of Ogun. Governor Abiodun recognized Solanke’s significant contributions to the arts, promoting Yoruba culture and tradition on a global stage through his drama, music, poetry, and other artistic works.
Pa Jimi Solanke’s illustrious career spanned several decades and included notable performances in epics such as ‘Death and the King’s Horseman’, ‘Kurunmi’, ‘Kongi’s Harvest’, ‘The Divorce’, and ‘Ovaramwen Nogbaisi’. His talents and performances turned him into a global icon of the arts, earning him recognition from prestigious publications like the Oxford Times and the New York Times.
Africa’s Greatest Naturalist Actor
Tola Adeniyi, president of the Tola Adeniyi Foundation for Theatre and the Arts (TAFTA), expressed his grief over the loss of Pa Jimi Solanke, stating that Africa has lost its greatest naturalist actor. Adeniyi, a veteran journalist, referred to Solanke as a bundle of talents, highlighting his skills as a thespian, folk singer, poet, playwright, producer, director, choreographer, theatre teacher, painter, sculptor, and guitarist. Adeniyi emphasized the impact of Solanke’s creativity and hoped that his outstandingly creative soul would continue to inspire others.
A Life Dedicated to the Arts
Pa Jimi Solanke’s journey in the arts began after his education at the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a diploma certificate in drama. He later moved to Los Angeles, California, where he established himself as a master storyteller, promoting Yoruba culture through performances in black African schools. Upon returning to Nigeria, Solanke joined NTA and ran popular children’s shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
Solanke’s love for folk music was remarkable, and he described it as the source of his sound health. In his later years, he embarked on a project to train Nigerians as folklore musicians, establishing Ibudo Asa, a center in his hometown of Ipara-Remo. Solanke wanted to leave a part of himself behind and ensure the preservation of the rich tradition of folklore music.
Pa Jimi Solanke’s 80th birthday anniversary was celebrated with a series of events, including a virtual conference on his life and times, the launch of his biography titled ‘Jimi Solanke: The Indestructible’, the premiere of a short film titled ‘Jimmy Show’, and a choral music fiesta called ‘A Festival of Praise’.
In conclusion, the Nigerian entertainment industry and the creative world have lost a legend in Pa Jimi Solanke. His contributions to the arts, his dedication to promoting Yoruba culture, and his immense talent as an actor, singer, poet, and playwright will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
May Pa Jimi Solanke’s soul rest in eternal peace.
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1. Tinubu, Abiodun, and others mourn as Jimi Solanke dies at 81
2. Tinubu, Abiodun, and others express grief over Jimi Solanke’s passing at 81.
