Voice behind Timaya’s ‘Ogologoma’, Papi Urhobo dies

Nigerian singer Stephen Ebihor, popularly known as Papi Urhobo, has died after battling illness.

Urhobo Worldwide, a digital community promoting Urhobo culture and heritage, announced his death in a statement shared on Tuesday.

The platform said the singer died on September 8 and appealed to fans and the public to avoid spreading unverified information about his burial arrangements until an official announcement is made by his family.

“With profound sadness, we acknowledge the passing of our dear brother, friend, colleague, and fellow entertainer, Stephen Ebihor aka Papy Urhobo,” the statement read.

The family also urged well-wishers to keep his wife and children in their prayers.

Before his death, Papi Urhobo had publicly shared details of his health struggles, including an accident that left him with a cracked bone and affected his mobility.

He had appealed to Nigerians for financial support to undergo surgery, saying the procedure would help him regain his ability to walk.

In subsequent updates, the singer expressed appreciation to those who supported his medical treatment.

Urhobo gained national recognition through his memorable vocal contribution to “Ogologoma,” a track from Timaya’s 2007 debut album, “True Story.”

His unique voice on the song became one of the track’s standout elements and earned him recognition among Nigerian music lovers.

The singer’s death has since sparked tributes from fans who remember him as the voice behind one of the memorable sounds of Nigeria’s early 2000s music era.