Veteran storyteller, folksinger, Jimi Solanke dies at 82

A veteran actor, dramatist, folk singer, poet, and playwright, Jimi Solanke has reportedly passed away at age 82.

The 82-year-old superstar allegedly died on Monday morning after suffering an unidentified ailment.

According to reports, the renowned personality, known well for his diverse talents, died in the early hours of Monday after a brief illness while on his way to Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital.

Jimi Solanke was born on July 4, 1942, in Ipara Remo. He began his artistic career as a pioneer member of the Orisun Theatre Group, which was created in 1961 by the famed Wole Soyinka.

Solanke’s versatility shone through in epic performances such as “Death and the King’s Horseman,” “Kurunmi,” “Kongi’s Harvest,” “The Divorce,” and “Ovaramwen Nogbaisi.” His captivating stagecraft and theatrical brilliance earned him accolades and recognition, both locally and internationally and many others.