Chairman Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Tony Okoroji, has called on the Federal Government to immortalise the late musician, Dan Maraya Jos.
Okoroji gave the advice in a statement issued on his behalf by COSON Executive (News Media), Mary Uket, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday
Okoroji, a former president of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigerian (PMAN), called on the Plateau State Government to also do the same in honour of Dan Maraya’s contribution to the development of local music.
“Nigeria has lost a prodigious talent who for many years held millions spellbound with a voice that caressed different octaves like that of a nightingale.
“His simple one string instrument from which he created unique rhythms and melodies and the unforgettable lyrics of this incredibly gifted poet will live in our hearts forever.
“I hope that both the Federal Government and the Plateau State Government will take steps to immortalise this extraordinary Nigerian who brought happiness to many across our nation.
“Of course, there will be more musicians who will come and go; but there will never be another Dan Maraya Jos,” Okoroji said.
Danmaraya Jos, one of the most famous Nigerian musicians from the north died Saturday, last week aged, 69.
In an announcement by his close associate, Ladan Salihu, the Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), wrote on his Facebook page:
“Inaa Lillaahi Wa Innaa ilaiHir raaji’un. One of Nigeria’s foremost Hausa musicians, poet, philosopher and philanthropist, Dr Adamu Danmaraya Jos has answered Allah’s call about an hour ago.
“He died in Jos after a protracted illness. When I visited him two weeks ago, he spoke passionately about the Unity of the North and of one Nigeria. I remember when he insisted that my late father gave out his (Dan Maraya’s) adopted daughter’s hand in marriage some 15 years ago.
“We shared many moments. He was to me a brother and a friend. I am devastated. But I am proud he lived a very useful life, transforming society through music and silently through Islamic endeavours. May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaws. Amin. For the record he was a recipient of the National Honours of MON, OON and United Nations Peace Medal.”
