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Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke mourns juju music legend Yekini Ajao
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of renowned juju musician Yekini Ajao, describing him as a close friend and a significant figure in Nigeria’s music industry. Ajao reportedly died after multiple surgeries in India, concluding a career that spanned decades. In a statement shared by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke paid tribute to Ajao, recognizing him as a pioneer of the Juju Makosa genre. Adeleke stated, “I lost a very close friend, Y.K. We prayed for him to survive but God ruled otherwise. I commiserate with his family and our circle of friends, notably Shina Peters and others. His memories remain evergreen. He was a true music legend.” The governor also recalled Ajao’s performance at the inauguration of his late brother, Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, the first executive governor of Osun State. Born in Iseyin, Oyo State, Ajao began his musical journey at nine and became a respected figure in juju music, credited with creating Juju Makosa by blending traditional juju rhythms with makossa influences. He was inspired by I.K. Dairo. Before music, Ajao trained as a fashion designer and worked as a nurse. He moved to Lagos in 1971, joined a band, and formed his own group in December 1973. His debut album, Soromi Dayo, brought attention, but Macossa Series 1 propelled him to national prominence. He released notable songs including Makosa Series 2, Vigilante, Akoni Mamu Gege, and Oro NEPA. His death marks the end of an
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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