By Ghazali Ibrahim
Veteran Nigerian Juju musician, Alhaji Ismaila Dele Bello, popularly known as Ahuja Bello, has died at the age of 83, just a day after celebrating his birthday.
BlackBox Nigeria gathered that the 1970s music icon passed away in the early hours of Monday, August 25, 2025.
His death was confirmed in a Facebook tribute by his daughter, Bello Festus Aderemi, who wrote:
“Rest in peace my lovely dad, Alhaji Ahuja Bello. We love you but God loves you more.”
His band, Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, also paid tribute on social media, stating:
“Though you are gone, your light continues to shine in our hearts. RIP Ahuja Bello.”
Born on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, Bello started out as an electronic technician before following his passion for music.
In 1976, he formed Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, quickly rising to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with his electrifying stage presence and hit records, including Awa ti Danfo and Ariya ti de.
In 1979, Bello traveled to London to record Ahuja in London, where he reportedly befriended reggae legend Bob Marley.
His flourishing career was tragically cut short after a fatal road accident on July 24, 1982, just a month before his 40th birthday, which left him unable to perform actively.
Until his death, Bello remained a respected figure in Nigeria’s Juju music scene, fondly remembered for his artistry, charisma, and contribution to the golden era of the genre.
