The Juju and Highlife star, fondly called “Mama Yabis”, was celebrated for her energetic performances, humorous storytelling and contribution to Yoruba music

The Nigerian music industry is mourning the death of veteran Juju and Highlife musician Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet or “Mama Yabis”, who reportedly died on Saturday after a brief illness.

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The news that Saint Janet dies was announced on Sunday by publisher and socialite Otunba Femi Davies, although members of the musician’s family had yet to issue an official statement on the circumstances surrounding her death at the time of filing this report.

A native of Abeokuta, Ogun State, Saint Janet developed an interest in music from an early age and began her musical journey as a chorister in the Cherubim and Seraphim Church before eventually pursuing a professional career.

She later emerged as one of the notable female voices in Nigeria’s Juju music scene, building a reputation for energetic performances, distinctive stagecraft and a fearless approach to storytelling.

Throughout her career, Saint Janet successfully blended Juju and Highlife with humour, satire and observations about everyday life.

Her songs, performed predominantly in Yoruba, explored themes ranging from relationships and social issues to celebrations and cultural values, helping her establish a loyal following across South-West Nigeria and beyond.

She was widely known by the affectionate nickname “Mama Yabis”, a reflection of the bold and often playful lyrical style that became a defining feature of her music.

Her ability to engage audiences spontaneously also became an important part of her appeal.

At weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, festivals and other social gatherings, she entertained audiences with humorous narratives, lively performances and commentary that often reflected the experiences of ordinary people.

Saint Janet’s career was particularly significant in a Juju music industry historically dominated by men.

As one of the female artistes to build a lasting presence in the genre, she contributed to the visibility and preservation of indigenous Yoruba music and culture while carving out an identity that was distinctly her own.

Her originality and willingness to tackle social themes through music earned her admiration among fans and fellow entertainers, while her performances inspired younger artistes interested in traditional Nigerian music.

Following news of her death, tributes began to emerge from fans, colleagues and admirers who remembered her as a gifted entertainer whose music brought together humour, culture and social commentary.

Her passing represents a significant loss to Nigeria’s traditional music scene, particularly the Juju and Highlife communities where she spent decades entertaining audiences.

For many admirers, Saint Janet’s legacy extends beyond her recordings.

Her colourful performances and unapologetic artistic expression helped demonstrate that female artistes could command attention and build enduring careers in a genre where men had traditionally occupied the spotlight.

The circumstances surrounding her reported death remain unclear, as the family has yet to release an official statement.

Funeral arrangements had also not been announced as of the time of filing this report.

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As tributes continue to emerge, the Nigerian music community is reflecting on the life and career of an entertainer whose distinctive voice, humour and vibrant stage presence helped preserve and popularise an important strand of Yoruba musical culture.