The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) Canada Chapter has lamented the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Chief Olusegun Akinremi.
Akinremi, popularly known as Chief Kanran, died last week at the age of 70.
The President of the association, Temidayo Enitan, recalled that Akinremi, who was a household name in the Yoruba film industry, honoured the chapter at the 2019 inauguration of their body’s new executive.
Enitan, popularly called Star Boy, explained that at the event, the deceased displayed energy, warmth, humility and left lasting memories for the chapter to remember for a long time to come.
According to him, the chapter extended its deepest condolences on the passing of the renown actor who he said was more than an actor.
“On behalf of the executive and entire members of TAMPAN Canada Chapter, we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of our beloved veteran Nollywood actor, Chief Olusegun Akinremi (popularly known as Karan),” he stressed, adding: “He was a good, positive and energetic man who always preached peace and gave life to traditional and wealthy characters on screen.”
Enitan further stated that Akinremi was a cultural icon who dedicated his career to showcasing Yoruba tradition and values, adding: “During his lifetime, he honoured us with his presence at the inauguration of TAMPAN Canada executive in November 2019.”
Similarly, the Deputy President, Otunba Kemi Agbeke, remembered him as a jovial and passionate actor who portrayed Yoruba culture with his iconic royal roles.
Agbeke described the late actor as a man of the people who used his art to promote Yoruba heritage, just as the association’s Publicity Secretary, Otunba Ayo Komolafe, also said of the deceased: “Chief Kanran’s love for and promotion of Yoruba culture is unmatched. His distinctive style and sharp humor will be sorely missed. Rest in peace.”
“We pray that Almighty God grants his family, colleagues, and the Nollywood industry the strength to bear this loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the Acting Secretary/Financial Secretary, Adejoke Adesokan stated in the release.
Adesokan added: “Chief Olusegun Akinremi (Kanran) will be greatly missed, but hish legacy will continue to live on through the unforgettable roles he played and the culture he helped preserve.”
Members of the chapter who also expressed their loss over the demise included Chief Adeyemi Adeodu (Director of Theater and Arts), Hon. Brown (Director of Motion Picture), Kudirat Olawale (Social Secretary), Mr. Ayobami Anifowose (Provost Marshall I), Mrs. Florence Ogunbiyi (Provost Marshall II), and Niniola Fatai (Director of Planning & Research).
