Tee Mac, Eddie Lawani, mourn late Nigerian guitarist

Veteran stars have expressed grief at the passing of veteran bass player, guitarist and music producer Abel Nikoro.

The music producer died on Tuesday, December 22, 2015, after a brief illness. He was aged 56.

The Delta State-born producer was a member of the famous Excite Band before his death. Abel is the second member of the Excite Band who died this year. The lead singer and drummer, Mr. Willie Bestman died early in the year.

Excite Band was once a resident band in Jazzville, Onike, Yaba that once housed Fela Kuti on Fridays. The band made music with a large number of musicians in the 90s in many genres including jazz and contemporary music.

A number of veterans in the industry, including Edi Lawani, Alex Zitto, Dele Abiodun, Tee Mac, Gloria Rhodes and others expressed sorrow at his death and said the following about the late guitarist.

“RIP. A fantastic bass player. Never had to worry when working with him. I was blessed to do so,” Gloria Rhodes reminisced with sadness.

Alex Zitto also in reminisce mood, as he exclaimed, “OMG!!! Knew Abel way back in the early days of De cross fellowship band with Oga King Kenny Tone. We use to jam and produced demos. R I P”

Edi Lawani was a man of few deep words: “RIP, Abel. You played your part well.”

Tee Mac had nothing but praise for the musician: “That is bad news. He was a dedicated and professional musician. May he join the other Nigerian superstars in heaven and continue to play his bass guitar for ever on.”

Latoya Aduke:“I did not know he was ill….was just thinking to call him for advice,,,,had the pleasure to work with Abel and Bestman with EXCITE Band…made me feel like a Pro took my music seriously. Rest in Peace Soul Brother.”