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By Our Correspondent

WARRI, Nigeria – June 17, 2026 – The Deputy President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has led the outpouring of grief across the Niger Delta today, mourning the passing of Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, the iconic musician and revered custodian of Urhobo culture.

In a personal tribute from his office, and signed by his Media Adviser Mr. Sunny Areh, Senator Omo-Agege, who holds the chieftaincy title of Obarisi of Urhoboland, described the death of the Ofuoma-Ughelli native as the felling of an “iroko tree,” leaving a void in the cultural soul of the Urhobo nation that may never be filled.

“Adjan was more than a musician. He was a maestro, a great philosopher, and a true custodian of Urhobo culture whose life’s work preserved and projected the heritage of our people to the world,” Omo-Agege stated. “Through his timeless music, he gave voice to our stories, wisdom to our generations, and pride to our identity.”

The Senator emphasized that Adjan’s influence was not confined to the stage, noting that his lyrics functioned as a living archive of Urhobo philosophy. It was this unique ability to weave deep proverbs, history, and moral lessons into his rhythms that earned him the honorific title of “Professor”, a moniker bestowed not by any university, but by the people themselves in recognition of his scholarly depth.

“Until his death, he remained a towering figure respected across board, by traditional institutions, scholars, fellow artists, and the countless fans who found meaning in his art,” Omo-Agege added. “His influence transcended age and geography, and his legacy continues to command great admiration till date.”

Reflecting on Adjan’s decades-long dominance of the Urhobo folklore and music scene, Omo-Agege described him as a “song-warrior” and a “philosopher in rhythm” whose voice carried the very soul of the people. The Senator noted that the late musician’s work successfully bridged the gap between generations, ensuring that the values and worldviews of the Urhobo ancestors were not lost to modernity.

“The vacuum he leaves in the Urhobo nation and Nigeria’s cultural landscape cannot be filled,” Omo-Agege lamented.

Extending his heartfelt condolences to the Adjan family, the music community, and fans across Nigeria, the Senator prayed for the peaceful repose of the legend’s soul.

“May his soul find peaceful rest, and may his legacy continue to inspire,” Omo-Agege concluded.

The passing of Prof. Adjan marks the end of an era for Urhobo traditional music, but as the Senator noted in his final remarks, the maestro’s melodies and teachings are eternal—ensuring that the “iroko” may have fallen, but its seeds will continue to grow for generations to come.