Renowned traditional musician John Zuya, popularly known as John Mai Molo, has reportedly died after eating a suspected poisoned meal in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

According to reports, the late singer began feeling unwell shortly after consuming the meal on Saturday, October 18, 2025. He was rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi, where he was confirmed dead.

Sources revealed that Zuya had just returned from Lagos two days earlier, on October 16, 2025, after performing at several cultural events. His sudden death has since shocked fans and the entertainment community in northern Nigeria.

A fellow musician and close associate, Emma Wakili, confirmed the sad news in a Facebook post, revealing that Zuya passed away around 7:00 a.m. on Saturday.

The deceased’s body has been deposited in the hospital mortuary for an autopsy, as investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of death.

John Mai Molo was widely celebrated for his deep cultural influence and traditional musical style that resonated with Hausa communities across northern Nigeria. His untimely passing marks a significant loss to the Nigerian traditional music scene.