Veteran Fuji musician Alhaji Abdul Azeez Oladeji, popularly known as Love Azeez, has passed away at the age of 81 following a brief illness.
His death marks the end of a remarkable era in Nigeria’s traditional music scene, where he remained one of the respected voices of Fuji music for decades.
FUMAN Confirms His Passing
The news of his death was confirmed by Adekunle Abiodun, General Secretary of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN), who announced that the veteran singer died on Wednesday evening at his residence in Lagos State.
In a Facebook post, Abiodun described Love Azeez as the oldest living Fuji musician and paid tribute to his life and legacy.
“So sad that the oldest Fuji musician, Alhaji Love Azeez Adio Oladeji gave up the ghost this evening after a brief illness at the ripe age of 81 successful and fulfilled years on the living planet. May the Almighty Allah grant him eternal rest and console his family, friends, fans, professional colleagues and well-wishers to bear the irrecoverable loss. RIPP Baba Wa Love Azeez L’Agege.”
He later confirmed that the late musician was buried on Thursday in accordance with Islamic rites.
A Life Dedicated to Fuji Music
Love Azeez was widely regarded as one of the early figures who helped shape Fuji music during its formative years.
The genre, which emerged in Lagos in the 1960s, rose to national prominence through pioneers such as Alhaji Ayinde Barrister, with Love Azeez standing among the respected generation that helped build its foundation and cultural identity.
Over the years, he remained an active and familiar presence in the Yoruba traditional music scene, earning admiration from fellow musicians and loyal fans alike. His longevity in the industry made him one of the most recognizable elders of Fuji music.
Tributes Pour in
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes have begun pouring in from colleagues, fans, and music lovers who celebrated his contributions to the growth and preservation of Fuji music.
Many described him as a cultural custodian whose influence helped sustain one of Nigeria’s most important indigenous music genres.
End of an Era
Love Azeez’s passing represents a significant loss to Nigeria’s music heritage, as the industry bids farewell to one of the surviving pioneers of Fuji music.
He leaves behind a legacy rooted in rhythm, tradition, and decades of dedication to a genre that continues to thrive across generations.
