Legendary reggae musician Ras Kimono passes away in Lagos after sudden illness

LEGENDARY Nigerian reggae musician Ukeleke Onwubuya popularly known as Ras Kimono has passed away at the age of 60 after suddenly becoming ill and being rushed to a Lagos hospital where he died.

Kimono, who became well known for the hit singles Under Pressure and We No Want, was scheduled to travel to the US yesterday night but complained of not feeling too well. He was rushed to a hospital in Ikeja, Lagos, then later taken to Lagoon Hospital on Lagos Island.

Music veterans Tony Okoroji and Sir Shina Peters have both paid tribute to Kimono, describing him as one of the stalwarts of his generation. A native of Delta State, Kimono had a difficult childhood, having grown up with a disability but defied the odds to become a household name and international star.

Delta State governor Ifeanyi Okowa, has sent condolence messages to the music industry and the Onicha Olona community in the state over the loss. He described the deceased as a true music legend, whose songs entertained Nigerians in the 1980s, noting that the Nigerian music industry benefitted greatly from his contributions and he also mentored many younger musicians.

Governor Okowa said: “I received with sadness the news of the passing away of Ras Kimono, a great reggae legend. He will be remembered for his hit song Rumbar Stylee.

“I join lovers of reggae music to mourn this great loss as he belonged to an era of great reggae music exponents in Nigeria. Ras Kimono spent all his life promoting good governance through reggae music, good entertainment and healthy community relations."