The Other Side Of RMD@60 Celebration

AZUH ARINZE

My health, in the last few days, has been anything but what I would have wanted. But that notwithstanding, and against my doctor’s advice (I hope he doesn’t read this), I made it to the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, to celebrate with RMD at 60. 

First, because I know and understand how important attaining the age of 60 is to Bros – like I enjoy hailing Mr. Richard Mofe Damijo, the authentic super star actor, lawyer and erstwhile Commissioner in his home State of Delta.

Second, because I consider it both an honour and a privilege to have been singled out by him, alongside others like Dele Momodu, Femi Akintunde-Johnson, Zik Zulu Okafor, Joke Silva, Ego Boyo, Tade Ogidan, Toyin Akinosho, Segun Ojewuyi, etc to contribute a chapter to his coffee table book, Portrait of a Warri Boy.

This book is in commemoration of his diamond age and below are three excerpts from what I wrote about the ‘agelessly handsome’ acting colossus with a kind and large heart:

“Richard Mofe Damijo is one of the most recognisable names in Nigeria’s popular culture and public space today. The uber-distinguished, dashing and debonair multiple-awards winning actor has remained at the top of his industry for more than thirty years now. In fact, one cannot name any three foremost actors in the country without mentioning this outstanding and enduring superstar. RMD has equally come to symbolise a mark of excellence that has remained evident in all his public life endeavours. Be it journalism, acting or public service as a commissioner, he has not only excelled, but has also outclassed competition. Three decades after he made his major screen splashes in Ripples and Checkmate, the theatre guru’s productions are still greatly sought after. Then and now, any movie that bears the imprimatur of RMD’s finely-hewn face on its sleeve or poster is headed for a box-office success…

“RMD had long stood out and he is still as relevant as ever. He is constantly reinventing himself and his career. I remember him telling me during one of our interviews: ‘Azuh, I refused to be downstairs’…

“The unarguable and unassailable fact remains that the story of Nollywood, television and stage performances in Nigeria cannot be complete without a deserved mention of that name that extracts and elicits joy and happiness wherever and whenever it is mentioned…”

Wanna read more? Then, grab a copy of Portrait of a Warri Boy. Believe me, you will never, never regret doing that.

Once again, happy 60th birthday, Bros and thanks so much for this.