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Nigerian musician Stephen “Papi Urhobo” Ebihor has died following a serious illness.
Urhobo Worldwide, a digital community and cultural platform promoting Urhobo heritage, music, traditions and unity, announced his death in a statement posted on its Instagram page on Tuesday.
The platform did not reveal when Papi Urhobo died or provide details about the illness that caused his death.
He also appealed to his fans and the public to avoid spreading unverified news, especially regarding the manner of his death and burial.
Urhobo Worldwide said the musician’s family will announce the burial date and other details in an official statement at a later date.
The statement reads: “With deep sadness, we acknowledge the passing of our dear brother, friend, colleague and fellow entertainer, Stephen Ebihor Aka Papy Urhobo. We kindly ask the public, friends, colleagues and fans to refrain from sharing any unverified information or details about his burial arrangements until the family makes its official statement.
“The family will communicate with the public at an appropriate time. We appreciate everyone’s love, prayers and support, and we invite friends and members of the public to pray to the wife and children he leaves behind during this difficult time. May Papy’s soul rest in perfect peace.”
Health challenge
Although the circumstances of Papi Urhobo’s death are still unclear, the singer had previously revealed that he was involved in an accident.
In a video posted to Instagram on July 29, Papi Urhobo said the accident left him with a broken bone and prevented him from walking.
He appealed to Nigerians for financial assistance to pay for surgery, saying the treatment would help him walk again.
In another video posted on August 2, he updated on his condition and thanked those who had contributed to his medical expenses.
The wife asks for help
Meanwhile, Papi Urhobo’s wife has also requested financial assistance to support her husband’s treatment.
In a video posted on the Facebook page of Ossai Success, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Delta State Governor, in August, he called on Nigerians to help raise funds for the medical tests required before doctors could perform the surgery.
She said her husband needed a scan or x-ray before the hospital would admit him for the procedure.
Urhobo Popes
Papi Urhobo became famous for his distinctive voice in Timaya’s 2007 hit, “Ogologomma”, where his performance became one of the memorable elements of the song.
The song was a track on Timaya’s debut studio album, “True Story”.
The Delta State-born musician built a reputation for his powerful voice and contributions to early Nigerian dancehall and Afropop recordings.
Papi Urhobo has brought elements of his Urhobo musical heritage into his sound, combining traditional influences with contemporary Nigerian rhythms and giving his vocal performances a distinct character.
