Engr. Gbenga Daniel, Senator representing Ogun East, has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late veteran playwright and dramatist, Jimi Solanke, reports Apples Bite Magazine. In expressing deep sorrow upon learning of the renowned storyteller’s passing, the senator shared sentiments in a statement that reads in parts, “The news of Pa Jimi Solanke’s transition reached me with a heavy heart. For individuals in his vocation—be it poets or culture preservationists—their journey transcends into a distinct form of existence, with their lives intricately interwoven into the fabric of their creative masterpieces.”
Daniel, in his tribute, acknowledged the unique nature of the transition experienced by individuals like Pa Jimi Solanke, emphasizing that their essence continues through the legacy of their artistic contributions. Senator Gbenga Daniel reflected on the profound impact of Solanke’s storytelling and cultural preservation efforts, stating, “Just that, for this moment, for the sake of shedding the earthly form to wear a new garment of celestial purity, the storyteller Jimi Solanke ends the story.”
Expressing a collective sentiment of loss, Senator Gbenga Daniel added, “We shall surely miss him, right from Ipara Remo in the Ogun East Senatorial District. Pa Solanke’s transition is a painful exit,” Daniel submitted.
As the news of Pa Jimi Solanke’s passing reverberates, the tribute from Senator Gbenga Daniel serves as a poignant acknowledgment of the storyteller’s enduring legacy and the profound impact he made on culture and the arts.
Born on July 4, 1942, in Ipara, Remo, Ogun State, Jimi Solanke is survived by his wife, Toyin. His illustrious career spanned seven decades, encompassing notable appearances on Western Nigeria Television in the 1960s and participation in international festivals in Senegal and Algeria during the 1970s.
Throughout his career, Solanke portrayed memorable roles in acclaimed plays such as “Death and the King’s Horseman,” “Kurunmi,” and “Kongi’s Harvest.”
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
