Nigerians are coming together to mourn the loss of Ras Kimono.
After it was announced that the 60-year-old musician had passed away on Sunday (June 10), celebrities, politicians, and fans took to Twitter to send their condolences. Ukeleke Onwubuya, more popularly known as Nigerian music star Ras Kimono, reportedly slumped at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, while waiting to board a flight to the United States, on Saturday night (June 9). He was ‘immediately’ rushed to an unnamed hospital in Ikeja and then moved to another hospital on Lagos Island, where he was announced died on Sunday morning (June 10).
Chairman of Copyright Society of Nigeria, Tony Okoroji and President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, Pretty Okafor both confirmed the passing of “Rumbar Stylee” hitmaker, who died aged 60. One of Nigeria’s music stars in the 90s, Baba Fryo said he spoke with the Kimono three days before his death. In his words: “We spoke and, based on my observation, he wasn’t sick. I am worried at the news of his death. I am shocked.” The deceased’s close friend, Iwa Okosun is of the opinion that he might have been ill without the world noticing. “We were together on Wednesday afternoon. He said he was coming from the clinic,” he said while reacting to a message posted on Facebook.
“Just last month, we were with you celebrating your 60th birthday,” Okosun adds. “I’m in shock. God will strengthen your family to bear this huge pain. Rest in peace, Kimono.”
A man who dedicated his life to making good music, Farewell Ras Kimono. You will live forever in our hearts. ?
— Cool DJ Jimmy Jatt (@djjimmyjatt) June 10, 2018
Death why! Why! My brother and my friend. Legend Ras Kimono rest in Peace. What a black day! What an unceremonious exit. I love you and will miss you. Sad sad sad.
— Senator Dino Melaye (@dino_melaye) June 10, 2018
I feel so sad hearing about the death of reggae legend, Ras Kimono. He redefined the face of music and there will be none like him. He will be dearly missed.
— Ben Murray-Bruce (@benmurraybruce) June 10, 2018
Sad to hear about the death of Ras Kimono. A legend and one who made our childhood so much fun. May his soul Rest In Peace.
— Reno Omokri (@renoomokri) June 10, 2018
Sincere condolences to the family, friends & fans of Ras Kimono. He came to light up the reggae world in Africa at a time when music lovers needed a breath of fresh air. He was a fresh air at the time. It’s sad that it’s when he just began to stage a big comeback that we lost him
— Festus Keyamo, SAN (@fkeyamo) June 10, 2018
Ras Kimono;He made an immeasurable contribution in the field of arts.He used music for political awakening.He was not a praise singer for the establishment.His songs were for the poor and for his country.Adieu.
— Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) June 11, 2018
RIP RAS VERY GENTLE GIANT .LEGEND AND INSPIRATION FOREVER
— @soundsultan (@Soundsultan) June 10, 2018
Rest well Ras Kimono, God bless ur soul and thank you for all the beautiful music yiu created.
— DJ Neptune #ShawaShawa (@deejayneptune) June 10, 2018
Photo Credit: Getty
