Veteran Juju music legend Ahuja Bello has passed away at the age of 83.
His son, Adetunji Bello, confirmed the news in a statement on Sunday, noting that the singer died just a day after celebrating his 83rd birthday.
Born Ismaila Dele Bello on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, Ahuja Bello rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s as a celebrated Juju singer, guitarist, and band leader.
Before committing fully to music, he worked as an electronic technician. In 1976, he founded Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, which quickly established itself as one of the dominant forces in Juju music.
Renowned for his energetic performances and hit songs such as Awa ti Danfo and Ariya ti de, Bello left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s music scene. In 1979, he recorded Ahuja in London, a project that expanded his reach internationally and brought him in contact with global stars, including reggae icon Bob Marley.
Although his flourishing career was interrupted by a tragic accident on July 24, 1982, just weeks before his 40th birthday, his influence endured, earning him a revered place in Nigeria’s cultural history.