0
The Mayor of Urhobo Land and Head of the Association of Urhobo Mayoral Family Crown (AUMFC), His Worship Eshanekpe Israel Agimor, popularly known as Akpodoro, has mourned the passing of renowned Urhobo musician, Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, describing his death as a monumental loss to Urhobo culture and Nigeria’s creative heritage.
Akpodoro, in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, described the late music maestro as a cultural ambassador whose songs preserved Urhobo history, values and traditions while promoting unity among the people.
He said Adjan’s contribution went beyond music, noting that his melodies served as a bridge connecting generations and keeping the Urhobo identity alive across communities and continents.
“While we agitated in the creeks and trenches, he stood on stages and in studios. Prof. Adjan fought his own battle — the preservation of our culture through music,” Akpodoro said.
According to him, the late musician used his talent to transform folklore, proverbs and communal experiences into timeless songs that educated and inspired generations.
“Who can forget how Emevwo taught us about life’s journey of faith and endurance? How Orovor reminded both leaders and followers that power without wisdom is vanity? Or how Odede became a song of homecoming, reminding every Urhobo son and daughter that their roots remain a part of them wherever they go?” he stated.
Akpodoro said Adjan, an indigene of Ofuoma in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, dominated the Urhobo music landscape for decades through his unique ability to blend traditional wisdom with contemporary expression.
“He was not just an entertainer; he was a custodian of our collective memory. When indigenous languages and traditions faced the threat of erosion, his songs became archives of our identity,” he said.
The Urhobo leader added that Adjan’s influence extended beyond Delta State, with his music gaining recognition among Urhobo people across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
“From Ofuoma to Lagos, Warri to London, his voice carried the message of Urhobo pride, resilience and unity. Kings, scholars, traders, students and ordinary people found meaning in his music,” he said.
Akpodoro described the late musician as a rare cultural figure whose works would continue to inspire future generations.
“Prof. Adjan was a university without walls. His classroom was the stage, his textbooks were his songs, and his lessons were the wisdom of our ancestors,” he added.
He urged the Delta State Government, cultural institutions and stakeholders in the creative industry to preserve Adjan’s artistic legacy through proper documentation and recognition.
“We must immortalise Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan. His music should be archived and made available to future generations. A man who dedicated his life to preserving culture deserves a lasting place in our history,” Akpodoro said.
While commiserating with the Adjan family, the Urhobo music community and the people of Delta State, Akpodoro said AUMFC would support efforts towards honouring the late musician appropriately.
“Adjan did not just sing. He preserved, taught and celebrated who we are. Urhoboland has lost a giant, but his voice will continue to echo through the generations,” he said.
