Sir Olaiya, who celebrated his 89 birthday last December, was confirmed dead by Managing Director of Evergreen Music Company Ltd, Bimbo Esho.
Esho, who in a brief statement described Olaiya as Doyen of the industry, lamented that he died at exact 12noon.
“We pray that the Doyen of highlife music find repose with the creator while wishing the family and entire music community the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.
“And to my name sake, Abimbola Olaiya, I will miss your contribution to Highlife Music,” he added.
Sir Olaiya, like his peers – Roy Chikago, Adeolu Akinsanya, Rex Lawson, Victor Uwaifo, Bobby Benson and many more, has been very popular especially since the 60s.
His song, “E bami so fun sisi yen ko mai lo o ….” will remain evergreen forever. May his soul rest in peace.
Enjoy the music in his memory:
Video: Youtube