The gospel music community is in mourning following the loss of rising star Aduke Ajayi, known by her stage name Aduke Gold, News About Nigeria reports.
News of her passing was shared on Tuesday by fellow gospel artiste Esther Igbeke, who posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, accompanied by Aduke Gold’s picture and the caption, “A general has fallen. RIP.”
Aduke Gold gained widespread acclaim for her breakthrough single, “Nitori Ogo” (translated as ‘Because of Glory’), which was a standout track on her popular eight-track album.
The song resonated deeply with listeners and garnered viral praise across social media platforms.
Her untimely death comes shortly after the gospel music industry lost another prominent figure, Egbin Orun, who passed away on April 28, 2024.
Esther Igbeke, a close colleague of Aduke Gold, had also confirmed Egbin Orun’s passing via an Instagram post.
Aduke Gold had openly shared her inspiring journey on Instagram, detailing the early struggles that shaped her career.
From selling slippers, yam, and fried fish to enduring hardships, she recounted how these experiences fuelled her passion for music.
She also spoke about her time working in a frozen foods store, packing fish heads, and learning to cook with firewood during times of scarcity.
Aduke was orphaned at the age of four and battled severe vertigo, yet she persevered and pursued her dreams with unwavering determination.
She earned a degree in History and International Relations from Lagos State University, made possible through a scholarship from Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele, who was the Commissioner for Youths and Sports in Lagos State at the time.
Additionally, she held an advanced degree in Child Psychology, a Diploma in Montessori Education from the UK, and various other qualifications in Special Education, Aquaculture, Cake Making, Cookery and Decoration, Music Rudiment, Business, and Piano.
