Actress Sola Sobowale became emotional at the premiere of Adebayo Salami’s new movie Her Excellency by kneeling to publicly honour the actor whom she described as a mentor and father figure.
The event, which held on Sunday at IMAX Cinemas, Lekki, Lagos, was organised to celebrate Salami’s 60 years in the movie industry.
“You have touched many lives, both the living and the dead. You are a man of action, a man of substance, a giver, a listener, a father,” Sola said in her tribute.
“You are a very kind person. I thank God for your life. You never change, you remain the same. That is why I love you,” she added.
The King of Boys actress also acknowledged the first wife of the actor, Risikat Salami popularly known Mama Wale, for standing by her husband during his journey to success.
Among those present at the premiere were Adebayo’s actor son, Femi Adebayo, who led his siblings in presenting their father with an Award of Excellence to mark his milestone.
Also in attendance was the former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, special adviser to Lagos State Governor on tourism, Idris Aregbe, Bukky Wright, Alibaba, Sola Sobowale, Aisha Lawal, Toyin Adegbola and Gabriel Afolayan.
Adebayo, popularly known as Oga Bello, began his acting career in the 1960s as a member of the Awada Kerikeri Theatre Group. He has since remained one of the most respected figures in Yoruba cinema.
Sola Sobowale, who has previously credited him as one of those who helped shape her career, said it was important for her to show appreciation while he is still alive.
Her Excellency is set to begin showing in cinemas nationwide from July 4.
