Gospel singer popularly known as 'New Jerusalem' is dead
Israel Terhemba Ikyereve, a well-known gospel singer who went by the stage name New Jerusalem, passed away.
He was 53 years old when he died. His passing has caused a great deal of grief throughout Benue State, especially among Christians, who held him in high regard for converting Tiv Swange music into a potent vehicle for the gospel.
During a condolence visit to the late gospel icon's Makurdi home, Chief Samuel Ortom, the former governor of Benue State, led tributes to him.
Ikyereve, accompanied by members of the Brethren Prayer Group, was a devout Christian whose music had an impact much beyond Nigeria's boundaries, according to Ortom.
"His songs touched my heart as a lover of Christ,” Ortom said. “That attraction led me to seek a personal relationship with him, which began a lasting bond with his family.”
The former governor recalled hearing the late singer's music on an international show in Australia, where New Jerusalem songs were playing in the background while a Tiv guy was teaching music.
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