25 LC 129 0110
House Resolution 177
By: Representatives Adeyina of the 110
th
, Adesanya of the 43
rd
, Olaleye of the 59
th
, Okoye
of the 102
nd
, and Holly of the 116
th
A RESOLUTION
Honoring the life and memory of Richard Olorunrokan Adekola, "King Rokan"; and for
1
other purposes.2
WHEREAS, Richard Olorunrokan Adekola, affectionately known as King 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, songwriter, 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 celebrations, showcasing his11
exceptional talent on some of the world's most prominent stages; and12
WHEREAS, he also had the rare honor of entertaining three presidents: 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 former
15
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 commitment 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 of 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 -