Bola Tinubu, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, has expressed his condolences to the family and colleagues of Babatunde Omidina, alias Baba Suwe, who died lately.
Recall that Omidina died on Monday, November 22, 2021, at the age of 63, and was buried at his house in Ikorodu, Lagos State, according to Islamic traditions on Thursday, November 25, 2021.
In a condolence letter released on Friday by his Media Office in Abuja, Tinubu described the late Omidina as “an indisputable ambassador of Nigerian culture, judging by the tumultuous acclaim he received from both Yoruba-speaking and non-Yoruba speaking audiences.”
The APC leader added, “An accomplished entertainer and actor, Baba Suwe deployed his rare God-given talent to bring joy to many hearts. He was a comedian of note with an amazing gift of spontaneous artistry.
“During his earthly journey, we met physically a couple of times. However, I encountered him many times through his amazing works. Baba Suwe redefined the Yoruba genre of comedy with his creativity and brilliance.
“He was an indisputable ambassador of Nigerian culture judging by the tumultuous acclaim he received from both Yoruba-speaking and non-Yoruba speaking audiences.
“We may have another Babatunde Omidina but it will be difficult to have another Baba Suwe. This untimely departure has left a big gap in the entertainment industry in Nigeria.”
Similarly, Akanni, the first son of veteran actor, Babatunde Omidina, aka Baba Suwe, has said he was happy that he was able to connect with his father before his death on Monday, November 22, 2021.
In an interview with journalists at the burial, Akanni, who did not know Baba Suwe as his father for many years, said, “I am very grateful to God that I met with my dad before his demise. I believe God is the only one who determines one’s death. I knew Baba Suwe right from childhood because I loved watching him on TV but my mother always asked me to change the station whenever she saw me watching any of his movies. However, I developed more interest in him. When I travelled out of the country, I also heard little about him but I could no longer watch his movies because of my job as a medical practitioner. I met with my dad twice after visiting him about four times before his demise. I am grateful I came home to support my dad. I am glad that I was able to show him love before his demise. Although I am Baba Suwe’s first son, I urge my uncles, aunts and other relatives to let love lead among my father’s children.”