The Mother Who Nurtured a King
Princess Maria Adeniyi Adegeye, the devoted mother of juju music legend King Sunny Ade (KSA), passed away two Fridays ago at the remarkable age of 112. Referred to by her son as “a rare gem,” she was the bedrock of his life and career, especially after the early passing of his father.
Reflecting on her impact, Sunny Ade shared: “My mother was a rare jewel among women. She raised me into manhood. When I lost my father at the tender age of 8, she poured her love and attention into me, softening the blow of that tragic loss.”
However, Maria’s unwavering love initially clashed with her son’s ambitions. She opposed his decision to pursue music, a resistance rooted in her dreams for him and her concern over the perceived instability of a musician’s life. One particular afternoon, an extraordinary event altered the course of their relationship forever.
The Unfolding Vision
One sweltering July day in Oshogbo, Osun State, young Sunday Adegeye (later KSA) returned home from school. While removing his uniform, Maria, seated in a cane chair, watched him closely. Her mind wandered into a future she had always envisioned for her son: as a respected doctor clad in white with a stethoscope or a sharp-witted lawyer addressing a court in his black gown and wig. Each image filled her with pride and hope.
Her reverie was broken when Sunday called out, “Ma’ami.”
“Yes, my child, what is it?” she asked with cautious curiosity.
“Mama,” Sunday said, “after elementary school, I want to join one of my idols’ bands—either I.K. Dairo or Franco.”
Her smile faded. To Maria, musicians were drifters, living uncertain, hand-to-mouth lives. She had promised her late husband to secure a proper education for their son and ensure a future worthy of his princely lineage.
“You will not disgrace this family,” she replied firmly, dismissing the notion. Though Sunday outwardly obeyed, his heart was set on music. From that day forward, he began to pursue his passion in secret.
The Strange Incident
Later that afternoon, Maria went to the garden to gather vegetables. Near a long-dead tree, she hummed a tune as she worked. Suddenly, a powerful gust of wind swept through, and to her shock, the lifeless tree sprang upright as though resurrected.
Terrified and bewildered, Maria ran to call her neighbors, who confirmed the strange phenomenon. As the murmurs of amazement quieted, Maria returned home, still shaken. She turned to Sunday and said, “You’re a strange child. Perhaps the prophecy of your fame is true after all.”
This event marked the beginning of her change of heart. Gradually, Maria softened her stance, ultimately supporting Sunday’s dream of becoming a musician.
Her eventual blessing laid the foundation for his journey to global stardom as King Sunny Ade, a pioneer of juju music and an icon of Nigerian culture.
A Legacy of Love and Perseverance
The story of Princess Maria Adegeye and her son is one of maternal devotion, resistance, and acceptance. It highlights the profound influence of a mother’s love and faith in shaping the destiny of one of Nigeria’s greatest musical legends.
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