ABUJA/Nigeria: Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned Urhobo musician and cultural icon, Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, popularly known as “The Ogburine,” describing him as one of the finest custodians of Urhobo heritage and identity.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday, Dafinone said the passing of the celebrated musician was a painful loss to the Urhobo nation and all lovers of indigenous culture, noting that Prof. Adjan dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the rich traditions, values and history of the Urhobo people.
The lawmaker described the late cultural ambassador as a towering figure whose contributions transcended music and earned him a place among the foremost advocates of indigenous knowledge and cultural preservation in Nigeria.
According to Dafinone, Prof. Adjan’s music served as a living repository of Urhobo history, philosophy and societal values, helping generations remain connected to their roots through thought-provoking lyrics and distinctive artistic expression.
“Prof. Adjan’s music was more than entertainment; it was a living archive of our history, philosophy and values. Through his thought-provoking lyrics and unique artistic style, he enlightened, inspired and connected generations of Urhobo sons and daughters to their roots,” the senator stated.
He noted that the late musician’s works bridged the gap between the past and the present, ensuring that the Urhobo culture remained vibrant and relevant despite the pressures of modernization and globalization.
Dafinone further described Prof. Adjan as a respected cultural ambassador whose influence extended beyond the stage and whose commitment to the promotion of the Urhobo language, customs and wisdom earned him admiration across Nigeria and beyond.
The senator said the late music legend’s famous signature refrain, “Isi wadooo… iyaaa…,” would continue to resonate in the hearts of his admirers as a symbol of a remarkable life devoted to culture, music and community service.
“His unwavering commitment to promoting Urhobo language, customs and wisdom earned him admiration across Nigeria and beyond. The echoes of his famous refrain, ‘Isi wadooo… iyaaa…,’ will continue to resonate as a reminder of his enduring legacy and remarkable contributions to society,” he said.
Dafinone extended his heartfelt condolences to the Adjan family, the Urhobo nation, members of the creative community and the countless individuals whose lives were touched by the late musician’s art and wisdom.
He prayed for God’s comfort and strength for the bereaved family and all those mourning the cultural icon, while asking God to grant the departed eternal rest.
With the passing of Prof. Adjan, the Urhobo nation has lost one of its most celebrated cultural voices, but his rich legacy of music, wisdom and cultural advocacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
