06/03/2026
Just two months after losing Tupac Shakur, another member of his inner circle was killed.
The grief had barely begun.
Then came another funeral.
1996.
East Orange, New Jersey.
Yaki Kadafi was 19 years old.
Born Yafeu Akiyele Fula on October 9, 1977, in The Bronx, New York, he grew up surrounded by political activism and Black liberation movements.
His mother, Yaasmyn Fula, was a well-known activist, and his godfather was Tupac Shakur’s mother, Afeni Shakur.
Because of that connection, Yafeu and Tupac grew up close.
As a teenager, he entered the rap world and became known as Yaki Kadafi.
His stage name was inspired by Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, whose name was often referenced within certain revolutionary circles during that era.
Kadafi became a member of Tupac’s rap group, Outlawz.
Though young, he quickly gained respect for his lyrical ability and energetic performances.
Fans heard him on several Tupac recordings, including songs from All Eyez on Me and other projects released during the final years of Tupac’s life.
Then came September 7, 1996.
Tupac Shakur was shot in Las Vegas.
Yaki Kadafi was there that night.
In fact, he was considered one of the key witnesses to the shooting and reportedly provided information to investigators during the early stages of the case.
Six days later, Tupac died from his injuries.
The hip-hop world was devastated.
But tragedy was not finished.
On November 10, 1996, Yaki Kadafi was visiting friends in East Orange, New Jersey.
During an argument and confusion involving several people, he was accidentally shot.
The gunshot struck him in the head.
Yaki Kadafi died at just 19 years old.
His death stunned friends, family, and fans who were still mourning Tupac.
Many people saw the loss of Kadafi as another painful chapter in one of hip-hop’s most turbulent eras.
A young rapper.
A loyal friend.
A rising talent whose story ended before it truly began.
Yaki Kadafi.
1996.
