Nigeria: Juju music veteran Ahuja Bello dead at 83

His death was confirmed by his daughter, Bello Festus Aderemi, who wrote in a Facebook tribute: “Rest in peace my lovely dad, Alhaji Ahuja Bello. We love you but God loves you more.”

His band’s official page, Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, also confirmed the news in a statement that read: “Though you are gone, your light continues to shine in our hearts. RIP Ahuja Bello.”

Born Ismaila Dele Bello on 24 August 1942 in Iseyin, Oyo State, Bello became one of the most recognisable figures in Juju music during the 1970s and 1980s. He was a guitarist, vocalist and bandleader known for his energetic performances and distinctive sound.

Before fully pursuing music, Bello worked as an electronic technician. In 1976, he formed Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, which went on to produce several popular albums including Awa ti Danfo and Ariya ti de.

In 1979, Bello travelled to London where he recorded Ahuja in London. During this period, he reportedly struck up a friendship with reggae icon Bob Marley.

Bello’s career took a tragic turn on 24 July 1982, when he was involved in an accident that interrupted his musical journey, just weeks before his 40th birthday. Despite this setback, his contributions to juju music remain widely respected, securing him a place among Nigeria’s influential musicians of his generation.