Newsone Nigeria reports that a famous Nigerian gospel singer Ajayi Aduke Morounkola popularly known as Aduke Gold is dead.
This online news platform understands that Aduke Gold’s death was confirmed in the early hours of Tuesday, August 13, 2024, by another famous Nigerian gospel singer Esther Igbekele.
Taking to the social media platform, Facebook, Esther Igbekele, wrote on her Facebook page: “A GENERAL HAS FALLEN. ADUKE GOLD
Though as of the time of filing this report, Aduke Gold cause of death remains unclear, Newsone understands that the late singer was battling with vertigo, which caused frequent fainting spells, which was a constant challenge she faced while pursuing her music career.
The Ilesha-born singer was initially known as Aduke Penkele.
She grew up in the Ogba and Badagry areas of Lagos and was from a polygamous home.
She was the 11th child of her late parents.
Aduke Gold came to stardom with her live performance at the first remembrance of the late gospel artiste, Baba Ara.
Professionally, she started music in 2004.
One of her famous track “Nitori Ogo” which she released in 2021 also brought her into limelight.
Apart from music, she was a child educator passionate about teaching young children.
Aduke was a history and international relations graduate from Lagos State University.
She also had her second degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Lagos.
Early hardships:
Orphaned at just four years old, Aduke Gold faced numerous challenges from a young age. She often shared her story of hawking goods at a tender age. Her battle with vertigo, which caused frequent fainting spells, further complicated her early years but did not deter her from pursuing her calling which is music.
Educational accomplishments
Aduke Gold was highly educated, holding a degree in History and International Relations from Lagos State University, thanks to a scholarship from Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele. She also earned a higher degree in Child Psychology and several diplomas in various fields including Montessori education, special education, and music.
Name change
Initially known as Aduke Penkele when she started her career as a child artiste, she later adopted the stage name Aduke Gold on the advice of her mentor, Tope Alabi.
Passion for education
Alongside her music career, Aduke Gold was committed to education. She had a passion for teaching young children and was skilled in working with children with special needs, such as autism and dyslexia.
Musical rise
Despite the competitive gospel music industry, Aduke Gold made a name for herself with her uplifting songs. Her breakthrough single, “Nitori Ogo” (translated as “Because of Glory”), garnered huge fanbase.