Ace live band star, Akinloye Tofowomo, popularly known as Akiin Shuga, has died at 50 in New Brunswick, Canada. Born in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, he overcame polio to become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated live band leaders.
The family confirmed his death and described him as a “revered music icon, Grandmaster, and custodian of rhythm, culture, and the spirit of performance.”
Founder of Shuga Band and Shuga Entertainment, he transformed live music in Nigeria with choreography, brand collaborations, and digital sound engineering.
The band leader of Shuga Band, Reke Ofano said: “Shuga never accepted mediocrity. He pushed everyone to be better, but he also cared deeply. He made us all feel like family.”
A Berklee College of Music graduate and advocate for persons with disabilities, he founded the Shuga Limb Foundation and served as Rotary International District Polio Ambassador.
Akiin Shuga was also the founder and President of the Association of Music Band Owners of Nigeria (AMBON), where he championed improved welfare and higher standards in the live-music sector.
Known for his mantra, “We don’t perform to impress; we perform to connect,” his legacy of courage, creativity, and purpose will continue to resonate across Nigeria’s music scene.
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