HR177: HR177 Adekola, Richard Olorunrokan, "King Rokan"; condolences

25 LC 129 0110 House Resolution 177 By: Representatives Adeyina of the 110th, Adesanya of the 43rd, Olaleye of the 59th, Okoye of the 102nd, and Holly of the 116th A RESOLUTION Honoring the life and memory of Richard Olorunrokan Adekola, "K ing Rokan"; and for1 other purposes.2 WHEREAS, Richard Olorunrokan Adekola, affectionately known as K ing Rokan, was an3 esteemed member of the Nigerian American and African diaspora community in Georgia as4 well as a beacon of cultural excellence whose influence transcended borders; and5 WHEREAS, King Rokan's unparalleled talent as a musician, songwr iter, and performer6 enriched the lives of countless individuals; and 7 WHEREAS, through his art, he celebrated the beauty of African heritage, shared messages8 of hope and unity, and inspired pride in cultural identity; and9 WHEREAS, King Rokan performed at significant global events such as the opening10 ceremony of the 1996 Olympics and Black History Month celebrati ons, showcasing his11 exceptional talent on some of the world's most prominent stages; and12 WHEREAS, he also had the rare honor of entertaining three presi dents: President Bill13 Clinton at the White House in 1993 with Bolu and the Roots of African Percussion, former14 H. R. 177 - 1 - 25 LC 129 0110 Nigerian President General Abdulsalami Abubakar in Washington, D.C., and former15 Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo in Ohio; and16 WHEREAS, beyond his artistic brilliance, King Rokan was a dedicated community leader17 who worked tirelessly to uplift and unite his people; he served as a mentor to young artists,18 an advocate for cultural preservation, and a source of strength and encouragement to many;19 and20 WHEREAS, King Rokan's legacy is marked by his unwavering commit ment to the21 betterment of his community and his enduring contributions to the cultural fabric of Georgia,22 earning him respect, admiration, and affection from all who had the privilege of knowing23 him; and24 WHEREAS, the passing of King Rokan has left an indelible void in the hearts of his family,25 friends, and the broader community; nevertheless, his life and work will continue to inspire26 and guide future generations.27 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that28 the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory o f Richard Olorunrokan29 Adekola, "King Rokan," as well as his contributions to music, culture, and community and30 express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing.31 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized32 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the33 family of Richard Olorunrokan Adekola, "King Rokan."34 H. R. 177 - 2 -