Veteran juju musician Ismaila Dele Bello, popularly known as Ahuja Bello, has died at the age of 83. He passed away in the early hours of Sunday, August 24, 2025, a few hours after marking his birthday on the same date.
Bello, born on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, was originally trained as an electronic technician before turning fully to music.
In 1976, he founded Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, which became a household name in Nigeria’s juju music scene.
His songs, including Awa Ti Danfo and Ariya Ti De, cemented his reputation as one of the most vibrant performers of his generation.
In 1979, he traveled to London to record the album Ahuja in London, a project that gave him international exposure and the opportunity to meet global stars such as reggae legend Bob Marley.
However, his flourishing career suffered a setback after he was involved in a serious road accident on July 24, 1982, just a month before his 40th birthday.
Confirming his death, his son Adetunji Bello said on Monday, August 25, 2025:
“Yes, my dad is dead. He had been sick for some time. He was loved by everybody, and we will greatly miss him.”
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His daughter, Bello Festus Aderemi, also paid tribute in a Facebook post:
“Rest in peace my lovely dad, Alhaji Ahuja Bello. We love you but God loves you more.”
The Golden Eagles Band, in an official statement, described him as a legend whose light “continues to shine in our hearts despite his passing.”
Ahuja Bello’s death has drawn tributes from fans and fellow musicians who regard him as one of the pioneers of juju music’s golden era.
From his humble beginnings in Iseyin to international stages, his legacy remains a testament to dedication, artistry, and resilience.