Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned Urhobo musician and cultural icon, Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, popularly known as “The Ogburine,” describing his passing as a monumental loss to the Urhobo nation and Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday, Dafinone paid glowing tribute to the late musician, whom he described as one of the foremost custodians of Urhobo culture and traditions.
According to the senator, Prof. Adjan’s contributions extended far beyond music, noting that his works served as a powerful vehicle for preserving the history, values and identity of the Urhobo people.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, affectionately known as ‘The Ogburine,’ a towering figure in Urhobo music and one of the finest custodians of our cultural heritage,” Dafinone said.
“His death is a painful loss to the Urhobo nation and to all who value the preservation of indigenous traditions and identity.”
The lawmaker noted that Adjan’s music was more than a form of entertainment, describing it as a repository of Urhobo history, philosophy and wisdom that inspired generations and strengthened cultural consciousness among the people.
“Through his thought-provoking lyrics and unique artistic style, he enlightened, inspired and connected generations of Urhobo sons and daughters to their roots. His work served as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that our culture remained vibrant and relevant,” he added.
Dafinone further praised the late cultural ambassador for his unwavering commitment to promoting the Urhobo language, customs and values, saying his influence transcended the music industry and earned him widespread admiration across Nigeria and beyond.
He recalled Adjan’s famous refrain, “Isi wadooo… iyaaa…,” describing it as a timeless expression that would continue to echo in the hearts of admirers and serve as a reminder of his enduring legacy.
The senator extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, the Urhobo nation, members of the creative industry and countless admirers whose lives were impacted by the late musician’s art and wisdom.
He prayed for divine comfort for those mourning the revered cultural figure and for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan was widely celebrated for his role in preserving and promoting Urhobo culture through music, earning respect as one of the most influential voices in the cultural and artistic history of the Urhobo people.
