Juju music legend Ahuja Bello dies at 83, a day after his birthday. The Nigerian icon is remembered for hits like Awa ti Danfo and Ariya ti de.
Juju music legend Ahuja Bello has passed away at the age of 83, just a day after celebrating his birthday.
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His son, Adetunji Bello, confirmed the sad news on Sunday, marking the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most celebrated musicians.
Born Ismaila Dele Bello on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, he rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s as a singer, guitarist, and band leader.
Bello was admired for his energetic stage performances and unforgettable hits such as Awa ti Danfo and Ariya ti de.
Before fully embracing music, Bello worked as an electronic technician, but in 1976, he followed his passion by founding Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band.
The group dominated Nigeria’s Juju music scene and cemented his status as a household name.
In 1979, Bello took his music to the global stage with the album Ahuja in London, during which he encountered international stars, including reggae icon Bob Marley.
His career faced a tragic turn on July 24, 1982, when an accident disrupted his musical journey just weeks before his 40th birthday.
Despite the setback, his influence endured, securing him a place among Nigeria’s musical greats.
Ahuja Bello’s passing is not just a personal loss to his family but also to Nigeria’s rich cultural history.
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His legacy as a trailblazer of Juju music will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
