Popular Juju Singer Saint Janet Dies After Brief Illness

 

Veteran Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician, Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, has died after a brief illness.

 

The renowned entertainer reportedly passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, following complications related to diabetes. Her death was officially announced on Sunday, August 2, 2026, by prominent publisher and socialite, Otunba Femi Davies.

 

Saint Janet rose to national prominence in the early 2000s with the release of her controversial album, Faaji Plus, which established her as one of the most talked-about figures in Nigeria's Juju music scene. Popularly called "Mama Yabis" and the "G.O. of Saint Bottles Cathedral," she was known for her distinctive fusion of Juju and Highlife rhythms with satirical, humorous and provocative lyrics.

 

Her unconventional musical style attracted widespread criticism and led to sanctions from bodies including the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and the Lagos State House of Assembly. Despite the controversies, Saint Janet maintained a loyal fan base and remained a regular feature at concerts, private events and international performances.

 

Throughout her career, the late singer built a reputation as a fearless entertainer whose originality and stagecraft distinguished her within Nigeria's indigenous music industry.

 

Tributes have begun pouring in from fellow musicians, fans and associates, who described her as an iconic performer whose contributions to Juju and Highlife music will remain unforgettable.

 

As of the time of filing this report, the family is yet to announce details of her funeral arrangements.