The Nigerian music industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Juju and Highlife musician, Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet or “Mama Yabis.”

Iyun Janet Oluwatoyosi Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet or “Mama Yabis

The renowned entertainer reportedly died on Saturday after a brief illness. News of her passing was announced on Sunday by publisher and socialite Otunba Femi Davies, while members of her family are yet to issue an official statement on the circumstances surrounding her death.

A native of Abeokuta, Ogun State, Saint Janet developed her passion for music at an early age as a chorister in the Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Church before venturing into professional music. She rose to prominence as one of Nigeria’s leading female Juju artistes, earning widespread recognition for her energetic performances and distinctive style.

Throughout her career, Saint Janet became a household name for her vibrant stage presence and her ability to blend Juju and Highlife music with humour, satire, and commentary on everyday life. Her songs, delivered mainly in Yoruba, reflected social issues, relationships, celebrations, and cultural values, earning her a loyal fan base across the South-West and beyond.

Fondly called “Mama Yabis,” she was admired for her bold lyrical style and spontaneous interaction with audiences. Her performances made her a regular attraction at weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, festivals, and other social gatherings, where she entertained fans with her unique storytelling and captivating stagecraft.

As one of the few women to establish a lasting presence in the male-dominated Juju music genre, Saint Janet made significant contributions to the promotion of indigenous Yoruba music and culture. Her originality and fearless artistic expression inspired many upcoming musicians and cemented her place among the notable figures in Nigeria’s traditional music industry.

Tributes have continued to pour in from fans, colleagues, and admirers, who have described her as a gifted entertainer whose music and performances left a lasting impact on the Juju and Highlife genres.

As of the time of filing this report, the family had not announced details of her funeral arrangements.