Veteran Juju Musician Saint Janet Laid to Rest in Ogun

Veteran Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician Iyun Janet Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, has been laid to rest in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Her burial took place at her residence weeks after her unexpected passing.

The funeral ceremonies commenced on Tuesday with a candlelight service, a Christian wake, and an Artists' Night held at the AIT/Faaji FM compound in Kola Alagbado, Lagos. The burial on Wednesday saw the attendance of her children, relatives, colleagues, and admirers, including veteran Juju singer Gentleman Dele Taiwo and other members of the traditional music community.

Saint Janet, affectionately called “Mama Yabis,” carved out a unique space in Nigeria’s Juju and Highlife music landscape. Her performances were characterized by a distinctive style that merged music with humor, satire, and provocative social commentary. This unconventional approach made her a memorable figure in the traditional music industry, where her public persona often generated discussion.

Videos from the burial ceremony captured emotional moments as mourners gathered around her remains before the final committal. The family had previously announced her burial would take place at her Abeokuta residence. Her death had previously cast a shadow over the Nigerian entertainment industry, marking the loss of a significant artist.