Former Deputy President of the Senate and Obarisi of Urhoboland, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of legendary Urhobo musician and cultural icon, Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Urhoboland and Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
In a statement on Wednesday by his Media Adviser, Mr. Sunny Areh, Omo-Agege said the late Adjan was far more than an entertainer, noting that he served as a philosopher, cultural ambassador and one of the foremost custodians of Urhobo traditions.
According to the former Deputy Senate President, Prof. Adjan dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Urhobo people through music, storytelling and philosophical reflections embedded in his songs.
“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. Through his timeless music, he gave voice to our stories, wisdom to our generations, and pride to our identity,” Omo-Agege stated.
He noted that the late musician commanded respect across traditional institutions, academia, the creative industry and among generations of admirers who drew inspiration from his art.
“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. His influence transcended age and geography, and his legacy continues to command great admiration,” he added.
Omo-Agege said Prof. Adjan’s music served as a vehicle for transmitting values, history and indigenous wisdom, earning him the revered title of “Professor” among admirers and cultural enthusiasts.
He further observed that the late cultural icon masterfully infused deep Urhobo philosophy and worldview into his lyrics, thereby cementing his place as one of the most respected ambassadors of Urhobo culture.
“We have lost an iroko, but his melodies, teachings, and cultural stewardship will remain eternal. He was not just a singer. He was a philosopher in rhythm, a custodian of Urhobo culture, and a legend whose voice carried the soul of our people,” Omo-Agege said.
The former Deputy Senate President recalled that Prof. Adjan, an indigene of Ofuoma-Ughelli in Delta State, dominated the Urhobo folklore and music landscape for decades, earning widespread acclaim for his inspiring lyrics, powerful delivery and unwavering commitment to cultural preservation.
Describing the late musician’s death as a painful loss, Omo-Agege said the vacuum created by his departure would be difficult to fill.
“The vacuum he leaves in the Urhobo nation and Nigeria’s cultural landscape cannot be filled. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the music community, and all who mourn this irreplaceable icon. May his soul find peaceful rest, and may his legacy continue to inspire,” he prayed.
