“A Huge Loss to Juju Music” — Veteran Singer St. Janet Passes Away After Brief Illness

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the sudden passing of popular Juju and Highlife singer Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, widely known as St. Janet. The iconic performer passed away on Saturday after a brief illness, ending a notable music career. Publisher and socialite Otunba Femi Davies officially confirmed the news of her death on Sunday morning through a social media post, which quickly triggered a wave of tributes from fans, colleagues, and industry leaders.

“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.”
— Otunba Femi Davies via Facebook

Fondly called "Mama Yabis" by her followers, St. Janet carved out a distinct niche in Nigeria's live music scene by combining traditional Highlife rhythms with humor, bold satire, and commentary. Despite facing occasional regulatory bans early in her career due to explicit song lyrics, she remained a highly sought-after entertainer at private events, weddings, and high-profile celebrations both locally and internationally. As of Sunday, her family had not announced official funeral arrangements, but tributes continue to pour in as fans celebrate her unique legacy and contributions to Nigerian entertainment culture.

What are your favorite memories of St. Janet's music and live stage performances? Drop your comments below!

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