Nigeria’s Fuji music community is mourning the loss of veteran musician Alhaji Abdul Azeez Oladeji, popularly known as Love Azeez, who passed away at the age of 81 following a brief illness.
The revered singer reportedly died on Wednesday evening at his residence in Lagos State, bringing to a close a remarkable career that spanned several decades in Nigeria’s traditional music industry.
FUMAN Confirms Death
The news of his passing was announced by the General Secretary of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN), Adekunle Abiodun, in a post shared on Facebook.
Abiodun described Love Azeez as the oldest Fuji musician and paid tribute to his enduring legacy within the genre.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of the oldest Fuji musician, Alhaji Love Azeez Adio Oladeji, who departed this life after a brief illness at the age of 81. He lived a successful and fulfilled life. May Almighty Allah grant him eternal rest and give his family, friends, fans, colleagues, and well-wishers the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he wrote.
He later confirmed that the late musician was laid to rest on Thursday in accordance with Islamic rites.
A Pioneer of Fuji Music
Love Azeez was widely regarded as one of the early figures who contributed significantly to the development and growth of Fuji music during its formative years.
The genre, which emerged in Lagos in the 1960s, evolved into one of Nigeria’s most influential indigenous music styles, gaining widespread popularity through pioneers such as the late Ayinde Barrister.
Throughout his career, Love Azeez remained a respected voice in the traditional Yoruba music scene. His longevity, dedication, and contributions to the industry earned him admiration from fellow musicians and generations of fans.
Tributes Pour In
News of his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from music lovers, industry stakeholders, and colleagues, many of whom have praised his role in preserving and promoting Fuji music.
His passing marks the end of an era and the loss of one of the surviving pioneers of a genre that continues to play a vital role in Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Love Azeez leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of Fuji musicians and fans across the country.
