The singer reportedly passed away in the early hours of Sunday, August 2, 2026, after a brief illness.
News of her death was announced by publisher and socialite Otunba Femi Davies, who shared the sad development on his social media platforms.
“St Janet (Iyun Janet Ajilore), a popular Nigerian juju and highlife musician known for her vibrant live performances, energetic stage presence, and socially unfiltered party tracks, is dead. She died after a brief illness,” Davies wrote.
Fondly known as Mama Yabis by her admirers, Saint Janet built a loyal following through her energetic performances and distinctive style of juju and highlife music. She rose to prominence with her controversial hit Faaji Plus, a song that generated widespread attention due to its explicit lyrical content.
Throughout her career, the singer remained a polarising figure in Nigeria’s music scene. Her performances and songs attracted repeated sanctions from regulatory bodies, including the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and the Lagos State House of Assembly over concerns about the content of her music.
Despite the bans and controversies, Saint Janet remained committed to her craft, continuing to entertain fans at private ceremonies and social events across the country.
Her death marks the end of a career that, while often controversial, left a lasting impression on Nigeria’s juju and highlife music landscape. Family members are yet to release details of her funeral arrangements.
