Veteran Juju Icon Saint Janet Buried in Abeokuta as Family and Fans Pay Final Tribute

The Nigerian entertainment industry has bid farewell to one of its most distinctive traditional music voices, Iyun Janet Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet or “Mama Yabis.” The veteran Juju and Highlife performer was laid to rest in Abeokuta, Ogun State, following days of funeral activities that brought together family members, colleagues, and admirers.

Her final journey was marked by emotional scenes as loved ones gathered to celebrate the legacy of a woman whose music combined humour, satire, and social commentary in a way that made her unforgettable.

1. Saint Janet's Final Farewell

2. A Burial Filled with Emotion

3. Funeral Activities Before the Burial

4. The Legacy of "Mama Yabis"

5. How Fans Are Remembering Her

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Saint Janet's Final Farewell

Weeks after her passing, Saint Janet was buried at her residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in accordance with arrangements announced by her family.

The burial ceremony attracted relatives, close friends, fellow entertainers, and members of Nigeria's traditional music community, all of whom came together to honour her life and contributions to Juju and Highlife music.

One of the notable figures present was veteran Juju musician Gentleman Dele Taiwo, alongside other respected personalities from the industry.

A Burial Filled with Emotion

Videos circulating from the ceremony captured touching moments as Saint Janet's children and mourners surrounded her remains before she was finally committed to the earth.

The atmosphere reflected both grief and gratitude—grief over the loss of a beloved entertainer and gratitude for the remarkable career she built over decades in the music industry.

Funeral Activities Before the Burial

Before Wednesday's interment, a series of remembrance events took place in Lagos.

The activities included:

A candlelight procession

A Christian wake service

An Artists' Night celebrating her musical journey

These gatherings were held at the AIT/Faaji FM premises in Kola Alagbado, Lagos, where fellow musicians and supporters gathered to pay tribute before her final burial in Ogun State.

The Legacy of "Mama Yabis"

Saint Janet earned the affectionate nickname “Mama Yabis” because of her bold, entertaining, and unconventional performance style.

Unlike many performers of her era, she became known for blending:

Juju rhythms

Highlife melodies

Humorous storytelling

Sharp social satire

Provocative commentary on everyday life

Her fearless approach often sparked conversations, making her one of the most recognizable personalities in Nigeria's traditional music scene.

Why Her Music Stood Out

Several qualities made Saint Janet unique:

Authenticity: She remained true to traditional Nigerian sounds.

Entertainment: Her performances combined music with lively storytelling.

Cultural Impact: She preserved elements of Yoruba musical heritage.

Bold Expression: She addressed societal issues through creative lyrics and satire.

Her influence continues to resonate among lovers of indigenous Nigerian music.

How Fans Are Remembering Her

Across social media, fans have continued sharing memories, performances, and heartfelt tributes.

Many describe her as:

A fearless entertainer

A cultural icon

A voice that celebrated everyday life

A performer whose energy was impossible to ignore

The outpouring of support highlights the lasting impression she made throughout her career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Saint Janet?

Saint Janet, whose real name was Iyun Janet Ajilore, was a veteran Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician popularly known as Mama Yabis.

Where was Saint Janet buried?

She was buried at her residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Who attended the burial?

Family members, relatives, fellow musicians—including veteran Juju singer Gentleman Dele Taiwo—and numerous admirers attended the ceremony.

What made Saint Janet famous?

She became famous for her distinctive blend of Juju and Highlife music, combined with humour, satire, and bold social commentary.

Saint Janet's passing marks the end of an era for many lovers of traditional Nigerian music. While her voice may have fallen silent, the cultural impact of Mama Yabis lives on through her recordings, unforgettable performances, and the memories she created for generations of fans.

Her burial in Abeokuta was more than a farewell—it was a celebration of a life dedicated to entertaining, preserving culture, and leaving an enduring legacy in Nigeria's music history.

Your Input

Did Saint Janet's music inspire you?

Share your favorite memory or song from Mama Yabis in the comments below. Don't forget to share this article with friends and family who appreciate Nigerian Juju and Highlife music, and follow our blog for the latest entertainment news and cultural stories.

Rest in peace, Mama Yabis. ❤️
Which Saint Janet song or performance will you always remember? Drop your tribute below and let's celebrate the remarkable legacy she left behind.