The entertainment industry in Bauchi State has been thrown into mourning following the sudden and shocking death of renowned traditional musician, John Zuya, popularly known as John Mai Molo. The celebrated singer reportedly lost his life after eating a meal suspected to have been poisoned in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
Sources revealed that John Mai Molo had just returned from Lagos on October 16, 2025, where he performed at a series of cultural events and musical shows. Shortly after his return, he allegedly consumed a meal that left him feeling unwell. Within a short time, his condition worsened, and he collapsed. He was immediately taken to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi, where medical personnel confirmed him dead on arrival.
Confirming the heartbreaking news, fellow musician and close friend, Emma Wakili, shared a post on Facebook expressing grief over the incident. He revealed that John Mai Molo passed away at about 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The singer’s body has since been deposited in the hospital mortuary for autopsy as investigations continue to uncover the true cause of his death.
John Mai Molo was widely known and loved for his contribution to traditional music in northern Nigeria. His melodious voice and deep cultural expression made him a symbol of pride for Bauchi’s entertainment community. His sudden passing has sparked widespread sorrow and emotional tributes across social media, with fans and fellow artists describing him as a true cultural legend whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.