A veteran actor, and folk singer, Jimi Solanke, is dead.
The legendary poet and playwright died on Monday at the age of 81.
He was said to have died while being rushed from his country home at Ipara Remo in Remo North Local Government Area of Ogun State to Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilisan when he succumbed to the cold hand of death.
Chief Solanke was said to have been in and out of hospital from December until he died on Monday morning.
Hon Dickson Awolaja representing Remo North State Constituency at the state Assembly confirmed the exit of the highly gifted artiste to our Correspondent.
Hon Awolaja said “I got wind of the demise of Pa Jimi Solanke not long ago. His death is no doubt another big loss to us in Remo North and Ogun State as a whole given his worthy contributions to the development of our dear nation. May his soul rest in peace”.
He is known for Kongi’s Harvest, Sango, Shadow Parties, and many more. He is also referred to as Uncle Jimi.
The President,Bola Tinubu, has also mourned him,in a statement by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, mourned the literary and cultural virtuoso and described him as one of the finest of Nigeria’s creative artists.
The President condoled with the Solanke family and all those who mourn the painful loss while praying for the peaceful repose of the beloved departed.
