By Tahav Agerzua
Christian gospel music legend, Israel Ikyereve, better known as New Jerusalem, has passed at the age of 54 years.
His wife, Deborah Msendoo Israel Ikyereve, stated that her husband transited at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital Makurdi at about 1 am on Saturday, 7th June, 2025 as a result of what she described as brief illness.
As a Performing artiste, his legendary accomplishments include turning the sensual, secular Swange music and dance into sacred praise and worship renditions.
Mr. Ikyereve, a confessed armed robber turned gospel preacher, has fostered unprecedented church unity especially in Tiv land with his music.
Although his music compositions are multilingual, the bulk of it remains in his mother tongue -Tiv.
Born in Katsina-Ala local government area 54 years ago on 25th December, 1971, Israel Ikyereve has no doubt carved a niche for himself in the Christian music industry.
His career has been tremendously complimented by his wife, Deborah, who is a composer, performer and editor in her own right, as well as his father in-law, Evangelist John Igyo Begha, a renowned trumpeter.
Israel and Deborah who are blessed with several children have produced 12 albums.
His family is yet to issue an official statement on his funeral.
