The Nigerian music industry has lost a towering figure with the passing of veteran Fuji musician Abdul Azeez Oladeji, widely known as Love Azeez, who died at 81. He was laid to rest in Ojodu-Berger, Lagos State, following Islamic rites.
Love Azeez reportedly passed away on Wednesday evening at his residence in Lagos after a brief illness. The sad news was shared by Adekunle Abiodun, the General Secretary of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN), via a Facebook post.
On Thursday, family members, friends, fellow entertainers, and fans gathered to pay their last respects in accordance with Islamic burial customs. Abiodun prayed for the deceased, saying, ‘May the Almighty Allah grant him eternal rest, console his family, friends, fans, professional colleagues, and well-wishers to bear this irreparable loss.’
Among those who attended the burial were former Chairman of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Tony Okoroji, and Fuji star Musibau ‘Omo Kekere’ Alani, who also serves as FUMAN’s Vice President. They, along with other members of the association and Fuji artists, paid their final respects to the music icon.
Love Azeez was a cornerstone of Nigeria’s music scene. He served as President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) in 1989 and later led COSON. Recognized as a pioneer of Fuji music, he helped shape the genre that emerged in Lagos in the 1960s and gained mainstream acclaim through icons like Ayinde Barrister.
Over a career spanning decades, Love Azeez remained a key figure in the Fuji scene, admired for his authentic sound and distinctive voice. His hit songs include Ijapari, Barrister & Kollington’s Fight, and Alarape.
In a past interview, he recounted starting his musical journey in Agege, Lagos, performing Wéré music before transitioning to Fuji—a move that cemented his legacy. His contributions to Nigerian music will never be forgotten.