Veteran Jùjú Maestro Ahuja Bello Passes at 83, Leaving a Golden Legacy in Nigerian Music

Nigeria’s revered jùjú music icon, Alhaji Ahuja Bello, has departed this world at the age of 83, just hours after celebrating his birthday on August 24, 2025. Born Ismaila Dele Bello in the vibrant town of Iseyin, Oyo State, on August 24, 1942, Bello’s life was a symphony of rhythm and resilience, captivating generations with his soul-stirring melodies. His son, Adetunji Bello, confirmed the sad news, noting that the legendary artist passed in the early hours of August 25 in Lagos after a period of illness. As tributes pour in from fans and fellow musicians, Bello’s enduring spirit reminds us of the timeless power of music to unite and uplift.

Ahuja Bello’s journey from an electronic technician in 1960s Lagos to a jùjú sensation exemplifies the transformative magic of passion. Initially working behind the scenes with King Sunny Adé’s band, where he earned his iconic nickname from the Ahuja sound system he mastered, Bello founded his own ensemble, Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, in 1976. This marked the dawn of an era where his electrifying guitar riffs and charismatic stage presence lit up Nigeria’s music scene during the golden 1970s and 1980s. Amidst contemporaries like Ebenezer Obey and Sunny Adé, Bello’s unique vocal timbre and energetic flair carved a niche, blending traditional Yoruba beats with modern flair, making him a beloved figure in social circles and beyond.

Bello’s discography stands as a testament to his artistry, with timeless hits like “Awa ti Danfo” and “Ariya ti De” that continue to evoke joy and nostalgia. His 1979 venture to London for the album “Ahuja in London” not only expanded his horizons but also forged an unforgettable friendship with reggae legend Bob Marley, symbolizing the global reach of African sounds. Though a tragic accident in 1982 curtailed his meteoric rise, Bello’s comebacks, including a 2011 album and performances as late as 2020, showcased his unyielding dedication. His music, rich in cultural depth and infectious energy, preserved jùjú’s essence, inspiring countless artists and ensuring its place in Nigeria’s heritage.

As the nation mourns, the words of Bello’s daughter, Bello Festus Aderemi—”We love you, but God loves you more”—echo the profound loss felt by all, while his band’s tribute affirms, “Though you are gone, your light continues to shine in our hearts.” Ahuja Bello’s legacy endures not just in vinyl grooves but in the hearts of those he touched, a eternal tribute to a man who danced through life’s adversities with the grace of a true maestro. Rest in peace, Ahuja Bello; your golden eagle soars forever in the annals of Nigerian music.