Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi has described the late poet, Pa Jimi Solanke, as an icon that cannot be forgotten in the annals of the state’s Arts and Culture industry.
Fagbayi, who led the management team of the Ministry on a condolence visit to the family, stated this at the Solankes’ residence, Ipara-Remo, described Pa Solanke as a renowned folklorist, dramatist and playwright, who contributed immensely to the growth and development of the theatre industry, adding that he was one of the finest creative artists in the history of Nigeria.
“I commiserate with the family for a good life spent by Baba. He was an icon that cannot be forgotten in Ogun State. The Ministry appreciates all he has done during his lifetime”, he said.
On her part, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Oluwatosin Oloko, disclosed that Pa Solanke participated in all cultural activities of the Ministry during his lifetime, saying, “Baba lived well and he has left his legacy behind for upcoming generations”.
Responding, the immediate younger brother of the deceased, Mr. Jide Solanke, appreciated the Ministry for commiserating with the family, assuring that the family would sustain the legacy left behind by the late icon.
The legendary poet and playwright would mostly be remembered by many for his television programmes, especially, ‘Story Land’.
Late Pa Solanke, who passed on at the age of 81, hailed from Ipara Remo in the Remo North Local Government Area of the state.
