Ace Juju Singer, Ahuja Bello Dies a Day After 83rd Birthday

Nigeria’s Juju music scene has been thrown into mourning following the passing of veteran musician, Ahuja Bello, who died just a day after marking his 83rd birthday.

The celebrated singer, guitarist and bandleader was born Ismaila Dele Bello on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, and became one of the most prominent names in Juju music during the 1970s and early 1980s.

Bello’s journey into stardom began after he shifted from working as an electronic technician to pursuing his passion for music.

In 1976, he founded the band “Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles,” quickly gaining recognition for his lively performances and distinctive guitar style.

His hits such as Awa ti Danfo and Ariya ti de made him a household name, and his artistry brought him into the spotlight as a vibrant storyteller through music.

By 1979, Bello’s fame had stretched beyond Nigeria’s shores, taking him to London where he recorded the album Ahuja in London. It was on this trip that he crossed paths with international stars, including reggae legend Bob Marley, further cementing his presence in the global music space.

Tragically, Bello’s flourishing career suffered a major setback in July 1982 when he was involved in a life-changing accident, only weeks before his 40th birthday. The incident drastically altered the course of his career, yet he remained a revered figure in Juju music, admired for his resilience and the legacy he had already built.

Tributes have since poured in from his family and fans. His children confirmed the sad news, expressing gratitude for his life while acknowledging the pain of his passing.

Admirers have remembered him as a pioneer whose artistry enriched Nigeria’s cultural landscape and paved the way for future generations of Juju musicians.

Ahuja Bello’s death marks the end of an era for Juju music, but his songs, memories and influence remain a permanent part of Nigeria’s musical heritage.