Nigerian Juju and highlife singer, Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, famously known as St. Janet has died after a brief illness, bringing an end to a career that spanned decades and left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s indigenous music industry.

News of her death emerged on Sunday after fellow musician Akinola “Alayo Melody Singer” Michael announced it in a post on his Instagram page.

Publisher and socialite Femi Davies also confirmed the development on Facebook, stating that the veteran entertainer died on Saturday following a brief illness.

Her passing has sparked tributes from colleagues, fans and lovers of Juju music, many of whom remembered her energetic performances and fearless style of music.

Death announced by colleagues

Announcing the sad news, Femi Davies described St. Janet as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable Juju and Highlife performers.

He said the singer was widely admired for her lively stage performances, energetic delivery and bold party-themed songs that made her a favourite at social gatherings across the country.

Davies noted that the veteran entertainer passed away after a brief illness, although further details surrounding her death were not immediately disclosed.

The announcement was later shared widely across social media, with fans expressing shock over the loss of one of Juju music’s most colourful personalities.

Career defined by bold music

Throughout her career, St. Janet built a reputation for blending Juju and Highlife music with humour, satire and socially provocative themes.

Her unique style earned her the nickname “Mama Yabis,” reflecting her outspoken lyrics and entertaining approach to storytelling.

She became a regular attraction at parties, ceremonies and live events, where her energetic performances attracted audiences from different parts of the country.

Her ability to combine traditional rhythms with contemporary social commentary made her one of the most recognisable female voices in the Juju music genre.

‘Faaji Plus’ sparked controversy

St. Janet gained nationwide attention in 2013 following the release of her controversial album, Faaji Plus.

The project generated widespread debate because of its sexually explicit and provocative lyrics, attracting sanctions from industry organisations, including the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and the Music Advertising Association of Nigeria (MAAN).

The controversy later extended to the Lagos State House of Assembly, which prohibited the album from being aired on broadcast stations and played in public places after lawmakers concluded that its content promoted obscenity.

Despite the restrictions, the album increased her popularity and cemented her reputation as one of the industry’s most daring entertainers.

A lasting legacy in Juju music

Although she remained a controversial figure, St. Janet continued to enjoy strong support from fans throughout her career.

She maintained a busy performance schedule and remained a familiar face at parties and social events, entertaining audiences with her vibrant stagecraft and energetic delivery.

Among her best-known songs were Olori Ebi, All Eyes On Me and Faaji Plus, recordings that helped establish her place in Nigeria’s Juju music scene.

Her death marks the end of an era for many followers of indigenous music, who remember her for her originality, confidence and willingness to push creative boundaries.

As tributes continue to pour in, St. Janet is being remembered not only as an entertainer but also as a performer whose music sparked conversations and left an enduring impact on Nigeria’s Juju and Highlife genres.