Double Heroic/Legendary Tragedy: Nigeria looses Composer of Nigeria's National Anthem, Benedict Odiase and Veteran highlife musician Fatai Rolling Dollar to the cold hand of Death

 

The composer of  Nigeria's National Anthem, Pa Benedict Odiase has passed on. Mr Odiase died last night in his sleep. He composed Arise O Compatriots” in May 1978.
Pa Odiase retired in 1992 as a Deputy Commissioner of Police after being the Director of Music with the Nigeria Police Band.

While Nigeria's oldest practicing musician, Pa Fatai Olayiwola Olagunju, popularly known as Fatai Rolling Dollar has passed on. He died this morning at Marritol Hospital,   Sam Sonibare Street in Surulere after a brief illness. One of his wives, Funmulayo Olagunju, confirmed his death. He was 85 year old.

He is survived by three wives, including a German and 16 children. May his soul rest in peace, amen.