Llegendary Nigerian reggae artiste Ukeleke Onwubuya, AKA ‘Ras Kimono’, has died.
Late Kimono who was known for the hit singles ‘Under pressure’ and ‘We No Want and What A Gwan’, it was learnt was scheduled to travel to the United States Saturday night, but complained of not feeling too well.
He was rushed to a hospital in Ikeja, Lagos, then later taken to Lagoon Hospital in the Island where he was said to have given up the ghost this morning.
Meanwhile, music veterans, Tony Okoroji and Sir Shina Peters have confirmed the incident.
HardReporters can report that late Ras Kimono was last seen in Delta state sometimes in March 21, 2018 when the Executive Council members of the Performing Musician Association of Nigeria, (PMAN) Delta State chapter led by its Chairman, Mr. Tebite Quincy paid a courtesy visit on governor Ifeanyi Okowa in his office in government house, Asaba.
The Association, it was gathered had nearly engaged themselves in a physical brawl over a disbursement formula for a meager sum of N2.5 million gifted them by governor Ifeanyi Okowa during a courtesy visit.
ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Delta PMAN Executive Fights Over Okowa’s Meagre N2.5 Million Largesse
Late Kimono hails from Delta North senatorial district of Delta state.
In a condolence message by Delta state Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, signed by the Chief Press Secretary, (CPS), to the governor, Charles Aniagwu, described the late Ras Kimono as a true music legend whose songs entertained Nigerians in the 80s.
While commiserating with the Nigeria Music Industry, the Onicha Olona community in Delta State, family and friends of the reggae music exponent over the loss. Okowa noted that Kimono spent all his life promoting good governance through reggae music, good entertainment and healthy community relations.
“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. He belonged to an era of great reggae music exponents in Nigeria.
“As one of the legends of reggae music, the Governor commends the late Ras Kimono for contributing to the development of music in Nigeria, and sustaining his interest in the music industry even in old age by participating in several music concerts”.
Governor Okowa affirms that the music industry in Nigeria benefitted from the contribution of the late musician, who also mentored many younger Nigerian musicians.
The Governor prays that the almighty God will accept the soul of the departed, and comfort the family he left behind.
Kimono died at the age of 60.
