Fuji icon Love Azeez dies at 81 after brief illness

Veteran Fuji musician Alhaji Abdul Azeez Oladeji, popularly known as love Azeez, has died at the age of 81 after a brief illness, bringing an end to a decades-long career in Nigeria’s traditional music industry.

The death of the respected singer was announced by Adekunle Abiodun, General Secretary of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN), who disclosed that Love Azeez passed away on Wednesday evening at his residence in Lagos State.

FUMAN confirms singer’s passing

Abiodun shared the news in a Facebook post, describing the late musician as the oldest Fuji artiste and paying tribute to his legacy within the genre.

“So sad that, the oldest Fuji musician, Alhaji Love Azeez Adio Oladeji gave up the ghost this evening after a brief illness @ the ripe age of 81 successful & fulfilled years on the living planet. May the Almighty Allah grant him eternal rest, consoles his families, friends, fans, Professional Colleagues & well wishers to bear the irrecovery loss. RIPP Baba Wa Love Azeez L’Agege.”

Abiodun later disclosed that the veteran singer was buried on Thursday in accordance with Islamic rites.

Legacy in Fuji music

Love Azeez was widely regarded as one of the early figures who helped shape Fuji music during its formative years.

The genre emerged in Lagos in the 1960s and later gained national prominence through pioneers such as Ayinde Barrister.

Over the years, the singer remained a familiar presence in the traditional Yoruba music scene, earning respect from fellow musicians and generations of fans. His longevity in the industry made him one of the most recognised elders in Fuji music.

News of his death has generated reactions among music lovers and colleagues, many of whom have highlighted his contributions to preserving the genre.

His passing marks the loss of one of the surviving pioneers of a music style that remains an important part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.