A veteran Nigerian actor and folk singer, Jimi Solanke has reportedly passed away on Monday at the age of 81.
According to media reports, the legendary poet and playwright died while being rushed from his country home at Ipara Remo in the Remo North Local Government Area of Ogun State to Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilisan when he succumbed to the cold hand of death.
Chief Solanke was said to have been in and out of hospital from December until he died on Monday morning.
His death was confirmed by Hon. Dickson Awolaja, representing Remo North State Constituency at the State Assembly.
Hon. Awolaja said: “I got wind of the demise of Pa Jimi Solanke not long ago. His death is no doubt another big loss to us in Remo North and Ogun State as a whole, given his worthy contributions to the development of our dear nation. May his soul rest in peace.”
He is known for Kongi’s Harvest, Sango, Shadow Parties, and many more. He is also referred to as Uncle Jimi.