The Institute of Cultural Studies at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife has been thrown into mourning with the death of Jimi Solanke at 81.
A statement by the Director of the Institute, Prof. Gbenga Fasiku, said ‘Baba Agba’, as Solanke was fondly called had a long and fruitful association with OAU Ile-Ife as his relationship dated back to the former Institute of African Studies as its pre-cursor.
Fashiku said Solanke was a former member of the Ori Olokun Theatre which later metamorphosed to the Awo Varsity Theatre.
He said, “The Institute of Cultural Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, mourns the passage of Sir. Olujimi Adeboye Solanke, who transited at 81.
Baba Agba, as he was fondly called, was a total man of the Arts. He was a foremost dramatist, folk musician and cultural icon. His dexterity in theatre and the Arts generally is phenomenal in his multiple roles in the artistic hemisphere.
“He stood tall as a man of huge creative endowments whose relevance is well ubiquitous. He carved a niche for himself as a children folk musician and prodigious folklorist.
“The late cultural connoisseur had a long and fruitful association with the Institute. His relationship dated back to the former Institute of African Studies, the Institute’s pre-cursor. He was a former member of the Ori Olokun Theatre which later metamorphosed to the Awo Varsity Theatre. Also, following a brilliant outing as the eponymous, character in Overamwen Nogbaisi, a historical play by the late Prof. Ola Rotimi, he was employed as a Senior Cultural Officer by the Midwest Arts Council by the government of Late Col. Samuel Ogbemudia.
“He was also an active participant in Festac ’77. As a former Artist in Residence of the Institute, Sir Jimi Solanke cherished his association with the Institute till he breathed his last. He contributed his quota towards the vibrance and sustainability of the Institute during and after his stint in residence.
“A Knight of Charles Wesley, Sir Solanke lived a fulfilled life of purpose and impact. He will be sorely missed by all and the Arts community in particular.
The Institute mourns his passing and celebrates his exceptional life. May his soul rest in peace.”
Friday Olokor, Abuja
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