Veteran Juju Musician Ahuja Bello Dies at 83, a Day After His Birthday

The Nigerian music industry has lost one of its veterans as Juju music legend Ahuja Bello has passed away.

The 1970s music star died on Monday, August 25, 2025, just a day after celebrating his 83rd birthday.

His death was confirmed in an emotional Facebook tribute by his daughter, Bello Festus Aderemi, who wrote:

“Rest in peace my lovely dad, Alhaji Ahuja Bello. We love you but God loves you more.”

Born Ismaila Dele Bello on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, Ahuja Bello made a name for himself as a Juju musician, guitarist, and vocalist.

He initially worked as an electronic technician before following his passion for music. In 1976, he founded his own group, Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, which became popular in the 1970s and 1980s for its unique Juju sound.

Bello’s passing has left fans and music lovers mourning the loss of a cultural icon who contributed greatly to the growth of Juju music in Nigeria.