Renowned Nigerian musician John Mai Molo (real name John Zuya) has died under tragic circumstances after reportedly eating a meal suspected to be poisoned. Sources say the veteran traditional musician collapsed following the meal and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. 

The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, October 18, 2025, in the Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State. According to reports, John Mai Molo had returned from Lagos on October 16, where he had performed at several cultural events.  Shortly after eating the suspected poisoned meal, he began showing signs of distress, collapsed and was rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi, where he was confirmed dead on arrival. 

His close associate and fellow musician Emma Wakili confirmed the loss in a Facebook post, stating: “It is confirmed that John Zuya passed on this morning at 7:00 a.m. His body has been placed in the mortuary as we move forward with the investigation.” 

John Mai Molo was a respected figure in northern Nigeria’s traditional music scene, known for songs such as “Abar Matasa” and “Chaskale” and for his use of indigenous musical instruments rooted in Hausa culture. 

As of now, the cause of his death remains under investigation. Authorities have initiated an autopsy to determine whether the suspected poisoning is confirmed, and security agents are reportedly collecting statements from witnesses. 

The sudden passing of John Mai Molo has sparked grief across Bauchi State and beyond, with tributes pouring in from fellow artists and fans alike, lamenting the loss of a cultural icon whose music bridged generations. 

Although full investigation details are yet to surface, the incident raises serious questions about food safety and the risks faced by public figures in local entertainment circuits.