By Ghazali Ibrahim
Veteran Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, popularly known as St. Janet or Mama Yabis, reportedly died after a brief illness over the weekend, according to multiple reports and tributes from colleagues.
The news of her death was first shared by publisher and socialite Femi Davies, who announced that the singer passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, following what he described as a “brief illness.”
Fellow musician Akinola Michael, popularly known as Alayo Melody Singer, also confirmed the development in a social media post.
As of Today, no official statement from St. Janet’s family has disclosed the exact cause of her death.
Though some social media posts have claimed that her illness was linked to diabetes-related complications.
However, these claims have not been confirmed by her family or any official source, and should therefore be treated with caution.
St. Janet rose to prominence in the early 2000s with her energetic Juju and Highlife performances and became widely known for her bold, provocative lyrics.
Her 2013 album Faaji Plus generated significant controversy and attracted sanctions from industry bodies, further cementing her reputation as one of Nigeria’s most outspoken Juju entertainers.
Her death has prompted tributes from fans, colleagues and lovers of indigenous Nigerian music, who have remembered her vibrant stage presence and unique contribution to the Juju music genre.
