It was a glamorous and beautiful Saturday on 22 October 2022 as Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, welcomed to its bowels distinguished and eminent members of the society who came together to celebrate a legend, father, actor, songwriter, folklorist and singer, Pa. Jimi Solanke, on his birthday.
The party was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, and hosted by the popular veteran actor Yemi Shodimu.
The hall was filled with prestigious members who wanted to celebrate with the folklorist. As people were being interviewed outside by the popular Queen of the Red Carpet, Fola Slim of Apreel1 Events TV and the Ogun State Cultural Troupe entertained us while awaiting the celebrant.
When it was time for the celebrant to make his grand entrance, he looked shocked to see so many people present. His joy was boundless as he danced flawlessly to the stage.
One would think it was a youth dancing. He danced to “Wa Beru Re Ni Bode” by Tope Alabi and didn’t stop until the music stopped. He was just full of life and joy.
A few minutes after his entrance, the national and state anthems were rendered while Maye Olubadan of Ibadanland and Oloye Lekan Alabi said the opening prayer.
The party took off, and his song, Osupa, was rendered to him. Pa Solanke could not stand still as he went on stage, collected the microphone, and started to sing along. Everyone had to stand and dance to the song because an icon was rendering his song.
Renowned filmmaker and director Tunde Kelani also celebrated with the icon.
The governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, was represented at the event by the deputy governor, Engr. Noimot Salako, who delivered a speech on his behalf. She also said many good things about the celebrant, Pa Solanke.
The host and Ogun State Commissioner for Art, Culture and Tourism, Hon. Adijat Motunrayo Adeleye-Oladapo, could not hide her joy at the event’s success and also shared what she knew about the legendary Pa. Jimi Solanke.
Yemi Shodimu held an auction for his life work, and Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre opened the floor. Many people started purchasing his songs, which made the celebrant happy.
He was also given presents, and pictures were taken with the icon.
Jimi Solanke, born July 4, 1942, is a Nigerian film actor, dramatist, folk singer, poet and playwright. He graduated from the prestigious University of Ibadan, where he obtained a diploma certificate in drama. After graduation, he moved to the United States, creating a drama group called “The Africa Review”, focusing on African culture. Members of this group put on African clothing, specifically Yoruba costumes. They performed in Black African schools. He’s themed as a “master storyteller“ by CNN.
Dignitaries present at the occasion include Tunde Odunlade, Biodun Kupoluyi, Yemi Sodimu, Oloye Lekan Alabi, Semore Badejo, Adeyemo Oluboye, Engr. Kayode Akinsonwon, Chief Adedayo Ologundudu, Agbolu of Agbaje, Oba Adetokubo Adebowale, and other important dignitaries.
The celebrant’s wife, Toyin Solanke, voted thanks and thanked everyone for making her husband’s day special.
