The departed former Executive Secretary of Osun State Council for Arts and Culture, Olori Solape Abolarin has been described as a woman of remarkable leadership qualities who contributed immensely to the council’s achievements.
At a tribute day held in her honour by the council, its chairman, Hon. Ebenezer Adeniji, said in an emotion-laden voice that the departed, who was the wife of Orangun of Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, was “a remarkable woman, a dependable colleague, and a true friend.”
Struggling to hold back tears, he praised her quiet strength, discipline, and grace-filled leadership—qualities that, he noted, were instrumental to the Council’s many accomplishments
The solemn occasion, tagged “Tribute Day,” was a celebration of the life and enduring legacy of a woman described by many as the heartbeat of the Council.
He said, “She was not just the Executive Secretary in title; she was the soul of the agency.
“Her commitment and passion ensured the success of every endeavor. Her passing is an irreplaceable loss to both the Council and the wider cultural community”.
Her widower, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, also delivered a deeply personal tribute.
Visibly emotional, the royal father described Olori Solape as a loving, humble, and well-trained wife and mother, whose loss has left a void that words could scarcely fill.
“She died at a time when her legacy was being written in gold,” the Monarch said.
He pledged continued support to the Council and proposed the production of a stage play titled “Abake” in her honour.
Others who paid tribute included Mrs. Akinloye Aderonke, Director of Administration and Supplies, and Mrs. Afolabi Christiahan, Olori Abolarin’s younger sister. Both spoke of her as a peaceful, passionate, and industrious leader whose presence uplifted everyone around her.
The memorial ceremony drew a wide array of dignitaries, including the Alapomu of Apomu, Oba Kayode Afolabi; and members of the Theater Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) led by Prince Ayo Oladapo.
There were also representatives from the Osun State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Osun State Tourism Board, and the Council itself.
The event featured musical performances, a commemorative documentary, and touching testimonials celebrating a life that made a profound and lasting impact. Olori Solape Abolarin’s contributions to culture and community, many attendees noted, will not be easily forgotten.
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