Veteran Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician, Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, has passed on.
The singer reportedly passed away on Saturday after a brief illness, bringing an end to a music career marked by energetic performances, distinctive stagecraft and a strong connection with audiences across Nigeria’s entertainment scene.
Her death was announced on Sunday by publisher and socialite Otunba Femi Davies, who shared the news on his Facebook page.
“St Janet, Iyun Janet Ajilore, a popular Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician known for her vibrant live performances, energetic stage presence and socially unfiltered party tracks, is dead. She died after a brief illness on Saturday,” Davies wrote.
Saint Janet was widely recognised for her unique approach to Juju and Highlife music, genres that have played significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s popular music history.
Through her performances, she built a reputation for combining traditional sounds with humour, social commentary and lively stage interactions.
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Over the years, she became a familiar name among lovers of Nigerian live music, particularly for her ability to engage audiences through expressive performances and songs that reflected everyday social experiences.
Her style, which blended entertainment with storytelling, helped her stand out in an industry where live performances remained a major part of musical culture. She was also known for her bold personality and ability to create memorable moments during stage appearances.
Juju music, which gained prominence in Nigeria in the early 20th century, has been shaped by legendary figures including Tunde Nightingale, I.K. Dairo and King Sunny Adé.
Highlife, another influential Nigerian music genre, also contributed significantly to the country’s cultural identity, particularly through its use of guitars, horns and African rhythms.
Saint Janet’s career placed her among the entertainers who sustained Nigeria’s vibrant live music tradition, performing at social gatherings, celebrations and events where Juju and Highlife remained deeply rooted.
News of her passing has sparked reactions among fans and members of the entertainment community, who have continued to acknowledge her contributions to Nigerian music and performance culture. As of the time of filing this report, details of her funeral arrangements had not been announced.
News Express
