Entertainment
How I survived despite being banned from Overseas for 12 years – Fuji Superstar, Obesere reveals
The Obesere brand has been existing for over 30 years. Many people still wonder how you have managed to sustain the brand for that number of years. Staying relevant must have come with a lot of sacrifices and rewards for you. What do you think about your continued relevance in the music industry?
As I always tell those who care to listen that there is no secret about what I have become, except for the power of God. His power has brought me to this point in my life. When I look back at how the journey started, I can only give thanks to my Creator for the gift of life and blessings. One thing that is certain is that nothing happens without God’s knowledge. A man can’t become anything without the hand of God in it. When He is involved, everything will always work out fine. Though, it may look rough at some point, if you believe in God and what you do, and you pursue your dreams with a pure heart, you will triumph. It is as simple as that.
Looking back at how it started and where you are at the moment, what would you say has been your limitation?
The late Micheal Jackson was very much more blessed and relevant than some rich people in the US even years after his demise. Maybe, I would have been richer than the likes of Aliko Dangote or Mike Adenuga, but I still give thanks to God.
Why did you say that?
The reason for my giving thanks is not far to seek. My detractors thought they could dim my star. They only tried but failed at every attempt to bring me down. The Obesere they wanted to pull down has been busy shuttling from one show to another around the world. Obesere is not begging anyone for a means of livelihood. In fact, no year passes without that same me acquiring a new house and cars. In fact, I still give out cars, land, or houses to people every year. God never allowed my enemies to stop me from doing all those good things in life.
It was reported that you didn’t travel out of the country for 12 years until 2017. It is believed that some petitions that were said to have been written against you at foreign embassies stopped you from travelling. Is this true?
It is true that certain petitions were written against me at various foreign embassies in US and Europe for reasons I am yet to understand. I think some people are surprised that I am living fine, despite my inability to travel out of the country for shows that would have fetched me more money. You can imagine a situation whereby a popular musician could not travel for 12 years but still manages to live fine without asking anyone for help. I guess that’s why petitions were written against me, but that has never stopped me from doing what I know best.
What do you think is responsible for this?
You know in this kind of profession, going international adds value to your trade. So, that is what some people tried to block my way. But when God said it was time, doors opened. 2009 was the last time I was in England. Even when the door opened, I left the category of those who would seek for visa as I was given a UK citizenship.
Last year, you were busy touring the US and you ended up performing in about 26 states. How did you do it, given that you have not been there for a while?
Like I said earlier, many people had waited patiently to see me over there because the kind of job I am doing is God-given. He handed it over to me. It’s in me. I’m music, music is me. It’s in my blood. I don’t copy anybody. So, when I got to the US, shows were lined up for me that at a point, I had to beg the promoter to let me go back to Nigeria because people were already thinking I had made up my mind to stay overseas. My plan was just to go there, work and come back home. So, I had to abandon some shows till further notice.
For somebody who could not travel out of the country for 12 years, how did you break the jinx?
As I said earlier, I was able to gain entry into the US after 12 years. My brother, you needed to have seen the petitions written against me. I wondered how people had the time to come up with such lies just to discredit me. Some people alleged that I had a lot of money that could not be traced to music alone. They said that I was into fraud, drugs and money laundering. They tried to implicate me with a lot of things that were not true.
Are you saying music is the only trade you have been involved in over the years?
I don’t have anything I am involved in other than music and I have made a lot of money from it. I’m successful because I am not a flamboyant person. The late Ayinde Barrister once said that work hard and get money that will make the lazy man feel bad. I am constantly reminding myself how my journey in music started and where I am going, so I don’t spend my money on frivolities because I know money is not easy to come by. So, the little I have, I use it well. I invest in my family and assist the needy. I manage my income very well, and this made some people feel bad. You will hear them say, “is he the only one singing?”
During that difficult time, what lesson did you learn?
Sometime ago, a pastor met me in London and said ‘Abass, I know you don’t know me but God sent me to tell you that He was aware of your travails.’ The man told me that God said He allowed those things to happen to me to confuse my detractors, so that they won’t tamper with my life? I held on to that message till now. So now, US, UK, among other places, have become where I can stroll in and out anytime. In fact, I can say I want to go and have fun in London any time. My family is there, and they are the ones God used for me to secure my citizenship.
How did God use them for your?
I have been able to manage my resources very well, which helped me to transfer my family abroad more than 15 years ago. I always sent money to them, investing in them heavily before they moved to London. So, my wife and the kids were those who thought for me. If I had not invested in them a long time ago, I would still be unable to gain entry into England because I was banned for 10 years from entering the country. That was in 2014. Now that I have been given a permanent residential permit, I have visited UK more than eight times. Again, people keep wondering, is the flight ticket so cheap? I have my family there. There is nothing too much to spend to see them. So, for those who believe I want to stay, it’s not true. Last weekend, I left London for Nigeria for a show at Gbagi, Ibadan, which had a massive turnout and more shows have been lined up, some of which I can’t even remember now. It has been back to back from London to Nigeria, to Dublin, and other places.
You have been seen performing in three shows a day with a minimum of six hours each at those shows. Given back to back shows, some people believe you are always under the influence of alcohol. What do you have to say?
In this game, you just have to give your fans what they will always take home and talk about. Energetic performance is in my blood. I didn’t learn music; I have always had it in me. It’s in my lineage. God really loves me that He has given me so much strength such that I can perform for over eight hours on stage. When I go to shows, I just love to entertain the people. For them to have come out to support me, the best I could give them is a great performance. I always want people to talk gleefully about my shows six years after.
People say you are humble and religious. We learnt that your house in Lagos has a mosque, where other residents come to worship every Friday. Are you truly a religious person?
Whoever God has created has a purpose to fulfill. There is nothing God doesn’t know about. Being humble that most people say about me is not pretentious. That’s just the way I am. For those who are not humble, that’s how God created them. But, I thank God for how He created me. That’s why if you say you want to behave like Abass Akande Obesere, it won’t be easy to be who I am. That’s why people often say whom God has created can’t be copied. We are different in nature. You can’t be me and I can’t be you. Yes, people often come to my house every Friday to worship in the mosque. That’s just me. So, people shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. People judge me because of the kind of job I do and what I sing to entertain. People should just understand that when Obesere is on stage, I just do my work because that’s where I get my daily bread from. The real man is inner, not outer. It’s very deep until you see someone portray it. Only God can judge man.
What are your plans for the rest of the year?
My latest studio album entitled Ojurawonlo is still fast-selling. I even heard some people want to pay promoters to stop selling but, God has shut them out. At the same time, I have some hip hop tracks with A-list Nigerian artistes, and more are still coming. You can always check my page on Instagram for constant updates. A hip hop single, Ibaje will be released soon. I am also working on another album on my Europe tour.
What advice do you have for your fans and young ones who want to do what you do?
My advice is that you don’t need to be a musician before you are successful. Just try to be yourself in whatever you have chosen to do and always work smarter. Don’t be discouraged. Be focused.
Entertainment
I Used To Insult Single Mothers Until I Remembered That My Mum Is A Single Mother -Akeem
I Used To Insult Single Mothers Until I Remembered That My Mum Is A Single Mother
-Akeem Akintola a.k.a. ‘Oko Awon Single Mothers’
A young man doing well in life is often defined by a disciplined, and purpose-driven approach to his personal and professional growth. 34-year-old Lagos State born social media influencer, Olalekan Akeem Akintola, disclosed in this interview that he has cultivated the habits and mindsets of a young man determined for long-term success before he attained age 21. He said he continually updated his knowledge and skills to keep up with changing demands and trends even before he left Nigeria for Europe in search of greener pastures at age 29. Other than his talent alone, Akeem noted that his becoming successful abroad was not all by luck, but mostly by being kind and respectful. He also revealed the secret behind his popular social media nickname, ‘oko awon single mothers’. And more…
What do you love about yourself?
What I love about myself is that I am a very determined person. When I am determined to do something I don’t look back. I just go into it not minding what the result would be and I don’t care about what anybody would say.
Tell us about your marital life.
I was married. But I’m a single father now (general laughter).
What year did you travel abroad and how did you manage to succeed abroad?
I traveled out of Nigeria in 2021. I’m currently in Europe, Germany, South Cyprus to be precise. I worked in the kitchen. To be honest, my experience abroad wasn’t an easy one. Thank God, today I have my citizenship documents and I’m living fine. It wasn’t easy getting to this level. I give God the glory.
Who are the most special people in your life?
The most special person in my life is my mum. Then my kids and my mum’s families, especially Sister Iyabo and Sister Nofisat. My mum’s families are so special in my life because they have been very supportive of my life.
Tell us about your experience helping a sick lady, Keji, whose matter has gone viral on social media.
This lady, Keji, came into my Instagram inbox and told me that she was sick and needed help. Ordinarily, I do use my platform to help people, especially those who are sick. There was a time I ignored her and didn’t attend to her complaints. But when she showed me the evidence and pleaded that I should help her, I had to support her. I am the person that sent her to see Agbala Gabriel pastor. But I didn’t know that he was going to mess up.
What type of people do you love to be around you?
I love to be around people who are friendly, ready to help and very supportive. I do not like people with negative vibes.
You’re a young guy, why do people call you ‘oko awon single mothers’?
There was a time I used to abuse single mothers; what they were doing, why did they leave their marriages and so on. I saw it as an abnormality. But I came to realize that my mum is also a single mother and I said why should I be insulting single mothers when I was also raised by a single mother. So, I had to start making videos about single mothers, praising them and talking about their challenges and qualities. Since that time, single mothers started calling me ‘oko awa single mothers’ (husband of us single mothers).
Do you make so much money through social media posts or you have a job that gives you the biggest?
Yes, I make money on social media. I also work in the kitchen as a chef. I’m into kitchen stuff here abroad and it pays me well. Also, I run adverts for people on my platform and I make a lot of money from it.
You are very popular among society women; how did you make it happen?
All I can say is thank God. I don’t know how it happened. I just found myself with millions of fans and followers. People really love me, especially older society women who fondly call me ‘oko wa’ (our husband).
What is your success tip for young people like you?
My advice for young people like me is that whatever they’re doing they should keep doing it. They should be consistent. Keep doing it, don’t relent and don’t look back. When I started out on social media, I was bullied, cursed. I never envisaged where I am today. I never expected that people would be talking about me sometime in the future. But here I am. I never saw this coming. I really thank God for everything. So, let us just keep doing whatever we are doing. There’s light at the end of the tunnel.
Are you fully in the entertainment industry or on part time?
I work and I’m fully back in the entertainment industry.
You look so young despite your age, what’s the secret?
The secret is that I maintain physical fitness, I do regular workouts. I know that a strong body supports a strong mind.
Entertainment
Nollywood Actress and Philanthropist Amb. Princess Chelsea R.C. Nwodo Appointed as Chief of Staff to AGN National President*
*Nollywood Actress and Philanthropist Amb. Princess Chelsea R.C. Nwodo Appointed as Chief of Staff to AGN National President*
Abuja, Nigeria – The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) announces the appointment of Amb. Princess Chelsea R.C. Nwodo as the new Chief of Staff to National President, ALHAJI SANUSI ABUBAKAR YAKUBU. This strategic move underscores the Guild’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to fostering a more efficient and effective leadership structure.
Amb. Nwodo brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, having served as a National Deputy Secretary (Emeritus) and demonstrating exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the Guild’s vision and mission. A respected member of the Nigerian entertainment industry, she is also known for her dedication to promoting actor welfare and advancing the Guild’s interests.
*A Proven Track Record*
Amb. Nwodo’s appointment is a testament to her outstanding contributions to AGN and her commitment to serving the Nigerian film industry. Her philanthropic efforts and advocacy for social causes have made a positive impact on Nigerian communities, She’s also the CEO of CHELSEA NWODO’S FOUNDATION a foundation known for its unique cultural expression and alliance with many state government including Delta state government and so on.
*About the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN)*
The AGN is the governing body for professional actors in Nigeria’s Nollywood film industry, established in 1998 with over one million members across the six geopolitical zones of the federation. The Guild promotes actor’s welfare, protects their rights, and advances the Nigerian film industry.
Entertainment
From Drill to Deen: Central Cee’s Conversion and the Power of Faith in Modern Hip-Hop
From Drill to Deen: Central Cee’s Conversion and the Power of Faith in Modern Hip-Hop
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
“The British rap star’s public declaration of Islam sparks global reactions and renews debate about spirituality, identity, and influence in contemporary music.”
British rap superstar Central Cee has publicly announced that he has converted to Islam, a revelation that has rapidly spread across global media and social platforms, drawing reactions from fans, cultural commentators and religious observers alike. The development marks a deeply personal shift for one of the most influential voices in modern UK drill, and it highlights the growing intersection between faith, identity and popular culture.
Central Cee, whose real name is Oakley Neil Caesar-Su, disclosed the decision during a recent livestream, where he stated that he had taken the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith that formally marks a person’s conversion to Islam.
According to multiple reports published on February 6, 2026, the rapper confirmed the conversion publicly, saying he had changed his name and embraced Islam, with friends present during the broadcast congratulating him.
The announcement quickly became a trending global topic, with thousands of fans flooding social media with messages of support and congratulation.
What happened, when, where and how
The confirmed facts are straightforward.
What happened: Central Cee announced his conversion to Islam.
Who: The British rapper, born Oakley Neil Caesar-Su.
When: The announcement surfaced publicly on or around February 6, 2026.
Where: The declaration was made during a livestream, widely circulated online.
How: He confirmed he had taken the Shahada and embraced Islam, with friends present during the session.
Before this announcement, Central Cee had never publicly declared adherence to any specific religion, though fans had long speculated about his spiritual leanings.
Background: the rise of a global rap force
Born on June 4, 1998, in London, Central Cee rose from the streets of Shepherd’s Bush to become one of the most commercially successful British rappers of his generation.
He achieved mainstream recognition with his 2020 single Day in the Life and later dominated charts with hits such as Doja and Sprinter, accumulating billions of streams worldwide.
By the mid-2020s, he had become a defining figure in UK drill, blending street narratives with a polished, globally accessible sound.
Reactions and significance
The news of his conversion triggered widespread reaction across continents. Many fans congratulated him, using phrases such as “Welcome to Islam, brother,” reflecting the celebratory tone among supporters.
Others expressed curiosity about whether the decision would influence his music, public image, or future lyrical direction.
Cultural analysts note that religion has long played a quiet but significant role in hip-hop. From Malcolm X’s influence on American rap consciousness to the presence of Muslim artists in both US and UK scenes, faith has often shaped artistic identity.
British sociologist Dr. Reza Pankhurst, writing on religion and youth culture, has argued that for many urban artists, faith offers “a language of discipline, moral structure and belonging in environments often defined by instability.”
Similarly, American scholar Dr. Sherman Jackson has noted that Islam’s appeal among musicians and athletes lies partly in its “emphasis on personal responsibility, spiritual dignity, and community.”
While these are broader observations about religious influence in culture, they help explain why high-profile conversions often resonate far beyond the personal sphere.
Why the announcement matters
Central Cee is not merely another celebrity; he is one of the most commercially powerful voices in British rap, with global reach across Europe, Africa, Asia and North America. His decisions, therefore, carry symbolic weight.
When artists of such stature publicly embrace a faith, it often triggers three parallel conversations:
First, identity: Fans begin to examine how the artist’s beliefs align with their lyrics and public persona.
Second, influence: Younger audiences may view the decision as aspirational or spiritually significant.
Third, authenticity: Critics and supporters alike debate whether faith will reshape the artist’s artistic content.
British cultural commentator Kehinde Andrews has previously observed that hip-hop is “not just music but a social language through which young people negotiate power, race, faith and identity.”
In that sense, Central Cee’s announcement becomes part of a larger cultural dialogue not merely a personal declaration.
The question of a new name
Some reports indicate that the rapper mentioned changing his name after taking the Shahada, though details remain inconsistent across sources.
While certain online reports suggested possible new names, there is no universally confirmed official new name from the artist at the time of reporting.
This remains an evolving aspect of the story, and responsible reporting requires caution until a formal statement is released through verified channels.
The broader context: faith and hip-hop
Central Cee joins a growing list of artists who have publicly embraced Islam. Over the decades, figures such as Yasiin Bey (Mos Def), Lupe Fiasco, Ice Cube, and Q-Tip have either converted to Islam or drawn heavily from Islamic teachings in their music.
In the UK, Muslim identity has long been intertwined with the grime and drill scenes, reflecting the multicultural realities of cities like London, Birmingham and Manchester.
Cultural historian Tricia Rose, one of the foremost scholars of hip-hop, once wrote that the genre “has always been a site of spiritual searching, moral struggle and social commentary.”
In that context, a public conversion is not an anomaly but part of a longstanding tradition of artists seeking meaning beyond fame and commercial success.
What remains unclear
Despite the viral spread of the story, certain details are still evolving:
The exact location of the livestream has not been formally confirmed.
The identity of the individuals present during the Shahada has not been publicly verified.
Any official legal name change has not been documented in confirmed public records.
Responsible journalism requires distinguishing between verified facts and social-media speculation.
Final assessment
Central Cee’s conversion to Islam is a deeply personal decision that has nonetheless sparked global conversation. Announced during a livestream in early February 2026, the declaration places one of Britain’s most influential rappers at the centre of a broader discussion about faith, culture and celebrity influence.
In an era where artists are often defined solely by streaming numbers and chart positions, his announcement underscores a different narrative: the search for meaning, identity, and spiritual grounding in the midst of global fame.
As the late scholar James Cone once wrote, “Spiritual transformation is the most radical form of social change, because it begins inside the human soul.”
Whether Central Cee’s journey will reshape his music or remain a private source of guidance is a question only time can answer. What is certain, however, is that his decision has already stirred conversations that extend far beyond the world of rap.
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)
-
Business7 months agoGTCO increases GTBank’s Paid-Up Capital to ₦504 Billion






You must be logged in to post a comment Login