Nigerian gospel singer Esther Igbekele, widely known as the Duchess of Gospel Music, has announced the death of her mother, Mary Amope Igbekele.

The singer shared the news on Instagram in an emotional post on Friday, expressing her grief over the loss.

Mary Amope Igbekele was recently celebrated by the family on her 70th birthday and wedding anniversary.

She wrote:
“AND MY MOTHER DIED. Death, you took my GOLD away.”

Esther Igbekele began her gospel music journey in 1996, and has become famous for her energetic performances focused on Alujo with highlife-infused rhythms.

The “Shey normal’ crooner has released several gospel projects, with a host of live band perfomances to her credit, both home and abroad.