Actress Mo Bimpe has written a glowing tribute to colleague and friend, Ibrahim Yekini Bakare, popularly known as Itele or Itele D Icon.
She appreciated Itele’s dedication, hard work, and support during the production of the movie LISABI.
Mo Bimpe, on Instagram, praised Itele’s portrayal of SALAKO, a loyalist and courageous EGBA farmer, describing his performance as “beyond applaudable.”
She also commended his commitment to the project, noting that he arrived at the training camp before her and her husband, and remained dedicated throughout the 40-day production period.
The actress further highlighted Itele’s multifaceted talents, citing his involvement in various aspects of the production, including training coordination, dialogue coaching, and costuming.
She also appreciated his support and encouragement, revealing that he helped her with the Egba language and was a shoulder to cry on during challenging moments on set.
She described him as her first friend in the industry and a “bestie”, while also expressed her gratitude for his presence and support in LISABI, emphasising the importance of surrounding oneself with genuine and like-minded individuals who share one’s vision.
Mo Bimpe wrote: “I’ll be talking about SALAKO- The multitalented IBRAHIM Yekini bakare @iteledicon01
“SALAKO is one of LISABI’s loyalists and a courageous EGBA farmer! And @iteledicon01 isn’t just a friend in LISABI the movie, he’s a real one in real life too! The way he embraced his role and absolutely nailed it, was I surprised ? NO! Because he always deliver!
“Now, let’s talk about how genuine and supportive he is! Itele arrived at Oyo(training camp) even before my husband and I, ready to give his all, before training, throughout training, during the shoot, and he stayed with us until we finally shouted ‘It’s a wrap!’ That’s over 40 days of dedication and hard work! He was active in all departments! The training coordinator, a dialogue coach, assistant producer, costuming, music coach, literally everywhere to just ensure the success of this project! He stood by me, supported me,and also helped me with the Egba language. He is truly an amazing soul! Even when there were challenges on set, Itele isn’t one to break down. He will always read my lines with me! I remember he even recommended some movies for me to watch for inspiration ( though I didn’t watch all of it, confession time!) He was a shoulder to cry and lean on!
“What about his characterization and embodiment of SALAKO ?, beyond applaudable! And that scene where he gave his life to save LISABI? Only those who’ve watched it can truly relate. (If you haven’t seen LISABI,go watch it now so you can relate!)
“Funfact: Itele is from Abeokuta, Egba gangan! He’s also the very first person I became friends with in the industry And we’re still besties. Pappy, words can’t fully express my gratitude.
You already know this, I’ll always have your back, just as you have mine. My husband and I love you so much, and we are grateful for your presence and support in LISABI.
“It is important to surround yourselves with genuine people of like minds, who believes in your vision and will stop at nothing to assist you in achieving it! Thank you SALAKO. Thank you ITELE D ICON. Thank you PAPPY!”
