Fuji music veteran’s management dismisses viral death claims, confirming the 82-year-old icon is alive, well and in good health
Veteran Nigerian Fuji musician Alhaji Kolawole Rasaq Ilori, popularly known as Kollington Ayinla, aged 82, has been confirmed to be alive and in good health, following the circulation of false reports alleging his death in Lagos State, Nigeria, on 22 June 2026.
Also read: Court Keeps Sowore in Kuje Prison Pending Cybercrime Trial
The clarification was issued by the management of Kollington Ayinla through a statement signed by Shamsudeen Ilori on behalf of the family, in response to viral claims spreading across social media platforms.
The statement strongly dismissed the reports as false, malicious and misleading, describing them as an attempt to generate attention and online traffic at the expense of the Fuji legend’s reputation.
According to the management, Kollington Ayinla remains in stable health, surrounded by family members and close associates, and continues to enjoy his private life while still contributing to the Fuji music legacy that has defined his decades-long career.
The statement read in part: “Our attention has been drawn to a malicious and unfounded rumour circulating all over the internet claiming that Kollington Ayinla Fuji authority has passed away. Alhaji Kollington Ayinla is ALIVE, WELL, and IN GOOD HEALTH.”
The Fuji icon health rumours debunked message further emphasised that the veteran musician remains active within his family circle and continues to be a respected cultural figure whose influence on Fuji music remains significant across generations.
Secondary reactions have since followed the clarification, with fans expressing relief across social media platforms.
Some supporters described the false reports as disturbing, noting that repeated celebrity death hoaxes have become an unsettling trend in Nigeria’s online space.
In a firm warning, the family and management also condemned the spread of misinformation, describing it as irresponsible and harmful.
They stressed that legal action would be considered against individuals responsible for fabricating or amplifying the rumour.
“Spreading false death news is not content, it is wickedness,” the statement added, underscoring the emotional impact such reports can have on families and fans.
The incident adds to a growing list of misinformation cases affecting public figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, raising fresh concerns about digital accountability and the rapid spread of unverified claims online.
Kollington Ayinla, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern Fuji music, has maintained a strong cultural presence for decades, with a legacy that continues to influence younger generations of artists.
Also read: Court Keeps Sowore in Kuje Prison Pending Cybercrime Trial
His management has urged the public to disregard unverified reports and rely only on official family or management statements for accurate information regarding his wellbeing.
