Nigerian Singer John Mai Molo Dies After Alleged Food Poisoning: "This is too Heartbreaking"
- Bauchi-born musician John Zuya, famously known as John Mai Molo, has died under mysterious circumstances after reportedly eating poisoned food
- The folk singer had just returned from Lagos days earlier, where he performed at several cultural events
- His death has left fans and fellow entertainers in shock as police begin investigating the suspected poisoning
The Bauchi entertainment community has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of renowned traditional musician, John Zuya, popularly known as John Mai Molo.
The folk singer, who was celebrated for promoting Hausa traditional music and cultural heritage, reportedly died on Saturday morning, October 18, 2025.
Daily Post reports that Molo died after allegedly consuming poisoned food in Tafawa Balewa local government area of Bauchi state.
Source: Instagram
According to close associates, John had just returned from Lagos on October 16, after a series of performances at cultural events.
Friends said he was full of energy and excitement about upcoming shows before tragedy struck.
Read also
Davido commissions female hostel named after late mother at Abia private uni, Chioma reacts
Reports say John began to feel unwell shortly after eating a meal at home. Moments later, he reportedly collapsed.
He was immediately rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi but was confirmed dead on arrival.
A fellow musician and close friend, Emma Wakili, broke the news in a Facebook post, expressing deep grief over the sudden loss.
His body has since been deposited in the hospital’s mortuary for autopsy as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding his death.
John Mai Molo was a household name in Bauchi and northern Nigeria’s traditional music scene.
Known for his signature molo instrument, a local stringed lute, he blended folk rhythms with storytelling, often performing at weddings, festivals, and community gatherings.
He was regarded as one of the few musicians preserving northern Nigeria’s indigenous music heritage at a time when contemporary styles dominate the airwaves.
Source: Facebook
Ahuja Bello dies at 83
Legit.ng recalled that another veteran singer Ahuja Bello died in August 2025.
According to reports, he he died one day after celebrating his 83rd birthday.
His daughter, Bello Festus Aderemi, confirmed his death in a Facebook tribute message on Monday.
His band page, Ahuja Bello and His Golden Eagles Band, confirmed the news, writing, "Though you are gone, your light continues to shine in our hearts." RIP, Ahuja Bello."
Ahuja Bello, born Ismaila Dele Bello on August 24, 1942, in Iseyin, Oyo State, became a well-known Juju musician, guitarist, and vocalist in the 1970s and 1980s.
Kayode Peters dies after long illness
Legit.ng earlier reported that Nollywood was hit with a tragic loss after the family of actor and movie producer Kayode Peters, aka Koko of My Flatmates, confirmed his death.
While the nature of his illness was not made known, Kayode's family said he challenged and conquered a long-time illness.
The family pen tribute to the late movie producer on how he impacted lives as they ask for kindness and privacy as they take time to make arrangements. Kayode Peters' death comes three days after he marked his wedding anniversary with his wife.
Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
