The Nigerian gospel music scene was thrown into mourning with the sudden passing of Morounkola Aduke Ajayi, affectionately known by fans as Aduke Gold.
The tragic news was revealed by fellow gospel singer Esther Igbekele, who shared a heartfelt tribute on social media platform X in the early hours of Tuesday. Her post featured a poignant message alongside Aduke Gold’s picture: “A general has fallen. RIP.”
As of the time of this report, the cause of Aduke Gold’s death remains undisclosed, leaving many in the gospel community and beyond in shock and sorrow.
Born in Ilesha, Aduke Gold initially gained recognition under the name Aduke Penkele. Her roots in the Ogba and Badagry areas of Lagos, coupled with her upbringing in a polygamous household as the 11th child of her late parents, shaped her journey.
Aduke Gold’s rise to fame began with a powerful live performance at the first remembrance event for the late gospel icon, Baba Ara.
Her 2021 breakthrough single, “Nitori Ogo” (translated as “Because of Glory”), catapulted her to stardom. The track, part of her acclaimed eight-track album, received widespread acclaim on social media, cementing her status as a significant figure in the gospel music industry.
Beyond her musical talents, Aduke Gold was a dedicated child educator, committed to nurturing young minds. A graduate of Lagos State University with a degree in History and International Relations, she furthered her education with a second degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Lagos.
Aduke Gold’s untimely death leaves a void in the Nigerian gospel community, where her soul-stirring songs and passion for her craft had made a lasting impact. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on through her music and the countless lives she touched.
