Juju singer St. Janet has passed away

Popular Juju and Highlife musician Janet “St. Janet” Ajilore has died.

Nigerian gospel juju-tungba musician and songwriter Akinola “Alayo Melody Singer” Michael shared the news on his Instagram page on Sunday.

Publisher and socialite Femi Davies also confirmed her death in a post on his Facebook page. He mentioned that the singer passed away after a short illness.

Davies wrote: “St Janet (Iyun Janet Ajilore), a popular Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician known for her lively performances, energetic stage presence and unfiltered party tracks, is dead.

“She died after a brief illness on Saturday.”

St. Janet

St. Janet was known for her unique mix of humour, satire and bold party-themed songs. This style earned her respect and the nickname “Mama Yabis.”

Janet “St. Janet” Ajilore

She caught national attention with her 2013 album “Faaji Plus.” The album had sexually explicit lyrics that caused issues with industry bodies like the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and the Music Advertising Association of Nigeria (MAAN).

The Lagos State House of Assembly also banned the album from being aired on radio and television and playing in public after lawmakers said it promoted obscenity.

Despite the issues, St. Janet remained one of the most recognized names in Juju music. Her lively performances and unique style won her a loyal fan base both in Juju music and beyond.

She was a regular at parties and social events, entertaining guests with her energetic shows and songs that captured the joy of celebration.

Some of her famous songs included “Olori Ebi”, “All Eyes On Me”, and “Faaji Plus.”