Veteran Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician Iyun Janet Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, complained of chest pain and experienced difficulty breathing shortly before her death, her children have revealed.
The family shared details of the singer’s final hours during an interview with Alore TV, recalling how she appeared perfectly well during her last performance before her sudden health crisis.
Saint Janet performed hours before her death
According to her daughter, Omowunmi, the musician performed at an overnight event in Sango, Ogun State, on the eve of her death.
She said Saint Janet appeared healthy throughout the performance, interacted with people after the show and returned home without showing any obvious signs of illness.
“We did not suspect anything. After the show, we came home and slept.”
The following day, Saint Janet reportedly went to the market and returned home around 6 p.m. She then began preparing food and initially appeared fine.
Omowunmi said she later noticed her mother holding her chest and breathing abnormally.
“She said she felt like something wanted to drop off her chest. Her breathing was no longer regular.”
The singer subsequently asked to be taken to the hospital.
Family recounts her final moments
Omowunmi said her siblings and uncle rushed Saint Janet to the hospital, where she was immediately attended to and placed on oxygen.
Her son, Orinayo, said the family was informed that she was having difficulty breathing and that medical personnel began treating her immediately.
“It was when they were looking for pulse that she gave up.”
Another daughter, Fola, said she only learned of her mother’s death after arriving at the hospital.
She described Saint Janet as a loving and caring mother who was always concerned about the wellbeing of those around her.
“She was a good mother. She always ensured that people around her eat.”
Saint Janet’s manager also said he noticed no signs of illness during her final performance.
According to him, she sang normally, interacted with the event organiser and even sat among the audience after performing.
Funeral arrangements announced
The family has set up a committee to coordinate the late musician’s burial arrangements.
A nine-day prayer and thanksgiving programme has commenced, while her funeral is scheduled for August 25 and 26.
Saint Janet’s death was first announced on Sunday by publisher and socialite Otunba Femi Davies, who described her as a popular Juju and Highlife performer known for her energetic stage presence and distinctive music.
Her death has since drawn reactions from fans and members of Nigeria’s traditional music community, where she built a loyal following throughout her career.
Source: Alore TV; statements from Saint Janet’s children and manager.
