Gospel singer Aduke Ajayi, musically known as Aduke Gold, has passed away.
The tragic news of his passing was announced on Tuesday in a Facebook post by gospel singer Esther Igbekele.
His passing adds to the losses that Nigeria’s entertainment sector, particularly Nollywood, will suffer throughout 2024.
The Punch reports that a source close to Aduke revealed that he had been battling an (unnamed) illness for two months before he passed away on Monday at the University College Hospital in Ibadan.
Expressing his grief, Igbekele's post is accompanied by a poignant image of Aduke Gold with a bold Rest in Peace caption.
The singer's message read: “A general has fallen. May he rest in peace.”
Friends and fans have been expressing their condolences since the news broke.
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Aduke Gold’s music resonated deeply with his audiences, with his most notable hit being “Nitori Ogo,” a song that earned him widespread recognition.
The certified fish farmer's songs, characterized by their emotional depth and spiritual message, helped her build a loyal following.
About Aduke
Born on March 16, 1990, Aduke graduated with a degree in History and International Relations from Lagos State University on scholarship and continued her education with diplomas in Montessori education, child psychology and other fields.
Initially known as Aduke Ajayi, she adopted the stage name Aduke Gold on the advice of her mentor, gospel legend Tope Alabi.
The perennial entertainer, CEO of MatGold Bakery and MatGold Bamini Montessori Schools, was single before her death.
The gospel singer’s commitment to music and education was evident in her work with children, especially those with special needs, and her influence extended to both gospel and secular music, drawing inspiration from icons such as King Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey.
Aduke's remarkable rise in the music industry was marked by his exceptional live performances, which became a hallmark of his career and contributed significantly to his growing reputation.
See reactions below
“I'm still in shock and disbelief after hearing of your sudden passing, dear ADUKE GOLD. Memories of our last conversations on Mummy Tope's show in Ede keep flooding my mind, reminding me of the profound impact you had on me personally. pic.twitter.com/t8aYQ1yJ20
– Alaka Kayode Emmanuel (@Kayodealaka22) August 13, 2024
Death why 😭😭😭, Adukẹ Gold we will miss you pic.twitter.com/Gkjm8qu0pj
— Yemi de Lagos ♛® 🇳🇬 🇺🇸 (@Yemi_of_Lagos) August 13, 2024
Gold Aduke
May we meet again
Good night soldier
Nítorí Ògo niNínú Iaalaa ayé
Yes, Olúwa will give
Rest in a serene cabin until Michael calls you. pic.twitter.com/hxJkh4AvrY
– ArugboBoisi (@Arugboboisi_Sam) August 13, 2024
Ruined day 😭 Aduke Gold why? 😢
This is not God's handwriting or 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/aWsaYXQXrG
— Timmy Sax 🎷🇳🇬🇬🇧 (@timmy_sax) August 13, 2024