The Nigerian music industry is mourning the loss of one of its finest cultural ambassadors, Ismaila Dele Bello, popularly known as Ahuja Bello, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, August 25, 2025, at the age of 83. His death came barely 24 hours after he celebrated his birthday, leaving fans and admirers across Nigeria and beyond in shock and sorrow.
Ahuja Bello was more than a musician—he was a symbol of resilience, a cultural icon, and one of the trailblazers of Juju music, a genre that defined an entire era of Nigerian sound. His death marks the end of an era, but his music and legacy remain timeless.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, Ahuja Bello grew up in a modest home where discipline, hard work, and determination shaped his outlook on life. Before fully venturing into music, Bello initially worked as an electronic technician, a profession that reflected his sharp mind and knack for creativity.
Yet, his heart always leaned toward rhythm and melody. Drawn by the vibrant sound of Juju music pioneered by legends such as I.K. Dairo and Sunny Ade, Bello transitioned fully into music in the mid-1970s.
Rise to Fame – Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band
In 1976, Ahuja Bello formed Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, a group that would quickly rise to prominence in Nigeria’s competitive music industry. At a time when Juju music was experiencing a golden era, Bello distinguished himself through his captivating stage presence, masterful guitar playing, and soulful voice.
His hit songs like “Awa ti Danfo” and “Ariya ti De” became household anthems across Nigeria, often played at weddings, festivals, and social gatherings. Fans loved him for his ability to blend rhythmic guitar riffs with deeply philosophical lyrics that spoke to both joy and struggle.
By the late 1970s, Bello had become a respected name, not just within Juju circles but across Nigeria’s broader music industry.
International Breakthrough
In 1979, Bello traveled to London where he recorded the celebrated album “Ahuja in London”. That same trip reportedly brought him in contact with global reggae icon Bob Marley, a meeting that many music historians say broadened his perspective on cultural exchange through music.
This international exposure elevated Bello’s profile and established him as not just a Nigerian Juju artist, but a global representative of African music.
Tragedy That Changed His Career
At the peak of his flourishing career, tragedy struck. On July 24, 1982, just a day before his 40th birthday, Ahuja Bello was involved in a serious accident that drastically affected his health and career.
Though the accident slowed down his performances and output, it did not silence his voice nor diminish his influence. Bello continued to inspire with his resilience, occasionally releasing songs and making appearances that reminded fans of his unmatched talent. His story became not only about music but also about strength, survival, and legacy.
Death and Reactions
News of Ahuja Bello’s passing was confirmed by his daughter, Bello Festus Aderemi, and further announced on the official page of the Golden Eagles Band. He reportedly died peacefully in the early hours of August 25, 2025.
The news sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the country. Musicians, cultural enthusiasts, and fans described him as a legend whose music defined a generation. His death is being compared to the passing of other Juju greats, solidifying his name among Nigeria’s most treasured cultural icons.
Legacy
Ahuja Bello’s impact cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer in making Juju music a unifying sound in Nigeria, blending traditional Yoruba percussion with modern instruments to create timeless rhythms. His songs remain symbols of celebration, cultural pride, and nostalgia.
Though tragedy shortened his active years, his contribution to music laid a foundation upon which younger artists continue to build. Today, as Afrobeat and Afro-fusion dominate global charts, Bello’s role in carving Nigeria’s musical identity remains relevant.
Ahuja Bello lived a full life—one of creativity, resilience, and cultural pride. While his passing is a painful loss, his music continues to echo in the hearts of millions. His journey reminds us that true legends never die; they live on through the art they leave behind.
As Nigeria bids farewell to Ahuja Bello, the Juju legend rests, but his songs remain forever alive in the rhythm of our celebrations and the memories of a grateful soul.
