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Spellz Inspired Me To Be A Better Version Of Me – Alternative Singer, DeJon

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Spellz Inspired Me To Be A Better Version Of Me – Alternative Singer, DeJon

 

Jonathan Ogbonna, also known as DeJon, is born into the family of four children; an elder brother and sister, and two younger sisters.

A graduate of Geology from the University of Ibadan. Jonathan is a Christian with a passion for music and married to the most amazing woman in the universe. He is also blessed with a daughter.

In this chat with SHABA GBENGA, the Publisher of Omonaijablog.com.ng, DeJon, an alternative singer spoke about his life, his career and music. He also revealed what he can’t do to ‘blow’.

He revealed much more, so much more.

 

 

Tell us about your journey into the entertainment industry.

My first encounter with music was as an eight-year-old boy. I was merely influenced by my mother, who was to release an album around that time. In primary 6, I started playing the keyboard for my Church and making melodies. During my 100 level in tje HigherInstitution, my friend and roommate, Toba, advised me to get lyrics for my melodies, instead of just letting them waste; so I wrote my very first song then. Of course, I did not release it, I was supposed to present it for the University of Ibadan Fresher’s Welcome Program at the Chapel of the Resurrection, The Youth Forum. However, I told myself, maybe I will still release the song, unedited so the world can see the growth.

 

 

 

How do you come about the name DeJon?

People call me Jon for short, but my mom calls me Dee Jon (which translates to Uncle Jon) when she is pleased with me and wants to pet me to do something for her. I liked the name; I decided to concatenate it and write it as DeeJon. To my surprise, I found out there is an actual name like DeJon which means ‘God is gracious’, often found among African Americans. I adopted the name, more so because of the meaning of the name.

 

 

 

What has been your experience since you started?

It hasn’t been easy, but it hasn’t been unbearable either. There have been moments of both joy and pain, but through it all, one thing has been consistent – growth. My experiences have shaped me and given me new perspectives on life. They have also reshaped my understanding of the music industry through what I have seen and heard.

 

 

Spellz Inspired Me To Be A Better Version Of Me - Alternative Singer, DeJon

What is your genre of music?

I am an alternative singer.

As an alternative singer, who are those who inspired you to do music?

I have been inspired and influenced by lots of musicians. The first is my mom, although her songs were never released nor published. I believe I got my musical talent from her. I was first inspired to write my first song by my roommate Toba. He believed in me and told me that my melodies were worth listening to if only I would find words for them. I have also been inspired by the likes of Jon Bellion, Jon Legend, Rihanna, and Justin Bieber. Bringing it home, in no particular order, I have also been a lover of Rema Music, WizKid, Buju, Davido, and Burna Boy.

Who is your greatest inspiration of all time?

Of all the big celebrities in the music industry, Spellz happens to be the only one I have come close to, beyond studio sessions. He has inspired me to be a better version of the Me he first met and given me a better perspective on success in the music industry.

He has taught me a lot about the music industry, he gave my music exploration a definition. He has shown me music is beyond the studio room, and that the real life of an artist starts after he is done with his studio sessions and performances.

How do you source for inspiration to sing?

I take a walk, I sleep and receive melodies in my dreams sometimes, and I drive out in an open space enjoying nature and the breeze. Sometimes, I eat and take a shower. Some other times I see a movie or have a fun time with my wifey.

What’s that unforgettable thing you ever found yourself doing?

I remember a time in school when I took the punishment for my younger sister. As she was a girl, I didn’t want her to be punished. At the time, I was a prefect, and school rules prohibited public punishment of a prefect. I went to the principal, handed in my badge, and offered to take the punishment in her place. My sister appreciated and respected me even more for it. The school management was surprised and returned my badge to me.

Can you do a Sugar Mummy to grow?

No, please.

Why?

Apart from the fact that I’m married, I don’t see reasons why I need to do a sugar mommy to blow. Music is art; people love good art and are always drawn to it, just like an ant is drawn to sugar. If you have a good craft, and the right support system, the people will accept you. There is only not so much you can achieve as an artist if your foundation in the industry is sugar mommy. I would rather develop my craft to blow.

What do you consider a success in the entertainment industry?

It is being who you want to be in the industry without sacrificing your personality or breaking your rules to attain it. For me, success in the industry is attaining a position where I can freely relate without restrictions; my music to a stream of audience willing to vibe hard with me, and not sacrificing my persona. That is success to me. I want that freedom of expression. I do not want to lose myself or become whoever the market wants me to become in order to blow.

Why do you think most young artists find it difficult to succeed?

First success is relative. They have to define what success truly entails for them. Talent, persona, and a strong management team have a strong impact on the market value of an artist. When the artist lacks these things, they might suffer in the industry. However, there are no simple ways of explaining these things, as some people have succeeded without the obvious requirements and some have also not seen success although they have it all.

Lyrically, what are some of the works you have done. And what are you working on presently?

I am currently working on a couple of songs with Spellz.
Two of the songs are ready and we will be sharing with you all very soon. I am so excited about the project because we created something very spiritual.

OK. What do you do to relax?

I listen to music, I watch movies, I eat junks, take a shower, I take a walk, and I play with my girls.

What are some of the things most people don’t know about you?

I love eating food that I did not cook and I enjoy being in nature. I cherish life, and love, and believe that men should always love and protect the women around them.

Can you share your social media handles with us?

Sure, of course.
Instagram and thread- Officialdejon
Twitter: official_dejon
Tik tok: officialdejon_
Snap chat- officialdejon

 

#DeJon, #Spellz, #Jonathan Ogbonna, #Omonaijablog, #Rema Music, #WizKid, #Buju, #Davido, #Burna Boy #AlternativeSinger #AlternativeMusic, #Officialdejon, #official_dejon, #officialdejon_
#officialdejon, #Jon Bellion, #Jon, #Legend, #Rihanna, Justin Bieber

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OTUNBA WASIU JAIYEOLA BAGS TASUED’S DOCTORATE DEGREE

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OTUNBA WASIU JAIYEOLA BAGS TASUED’S DOCTORATE DEGREE

 

In recognition of his impactful contributions to clothing and textile industry in Ogun state in particular and Nigeria in general, the Governing Council of Tai Solarin University of Education, ijagun is set to honour the Founder of Wessy Creations, Otunba Jaiyeola Wasiu, with the Doctor of Science, D.sc Ed (Honoris causa) in Textile and Clothing.

The letter of conferment of the award dated September 30, 2024 with reference number TASUED/REG.122/VOL.1/006 and signed by the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Oluwole Banjo, indicated that: “The Award is in recognition of your passion for education, and numerous contributions to the advancement of human race in general.”

The letter reads further: “The University takes special recognition of your numerous professional achievements and community services, including your exemplary leadership roles in our Nation as an elder statesman whose modest achievements and accomplishments represent the idea of integrity and selflessness, which our University stand for.
“The University joins well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating your humble, worthy, and outstanding legacies in the service of humanity.
“We also congratulate you and your family on your many notable achievements in life”.

The conferment ceremony is slated for Thursday, 28th November, 2024 at the School Auditorium in Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

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Family Pleads With FG to save brother in South African prison

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Family Pleads With FG to save brother in South African prison

Family Pleads With FG to save brother in South African prison

 

The family of a Nigerian businessman, Olatunji Abdul, imprisoned in South Africa, has called on the Nigerian government and the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to intervene and save his life urgently.

The family, at a press conference on Thursday at Ikeja, alleged that Olatunji, a businessman and humanitarian, who has been held in a South African prison since 2019, is a victim of false charges allegedly orchestrated by state agents and xenophobic business rivals and that he is facing imminent danger.

PUNCH Metro gathered that through a petition submitted by the founder of Zarephath Aid, Ben Abraham, an international criminal justice organisation, the family narrated the ordeal of the Osun State-born entrepreneur.

 

Abdul, who relocated to South Africa in 2009, established himself as a prominent figure in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

According to the family, as the founder and CEO of Hydro Club, a leading hospitality consultancy in Johannesburg, he provided employment opportunities for Nigerians and supported businesses, students, and tourists in the diaspora.

However, his family believes his success made him a target for xenophobic competitors and corrupt officials.

 

Olatunji’s brother, Sesan, revealed that in 2019, these forces allegedly initiated a scheme, called “#DestroyAbdul,” aimed at destroying his reputation and business ventures.

Sesan claimed that this led to his wrongful arrest, denial of bail, and coercion into providing false confessions.

“In 2020, Olatunji was convicted on charges of theft and sentenced to 15 years in prison, a sentence his supporters insist was based on fabricated evidence.’

“Despite being granted leave to appeal his sentence in November 2024, Abdul is said to be facing further challenges as his efforts to secure legal representation for his appeal have been thwarted.

 

“Several lawyers have reportedly withdrawn from his case due to threats and intimidation, leaving him to represent himself in court,” he said.

His family further stated that his situation is worsening, with fears of poisoning in prison and the confiscation of his laptop, which he needed for legal preparation.

The family, along with Zarephath Aid, appealed to the FG to act swiftly to prevent Olatunji’s death.

 

“If nothing is done, we risk losing a man who has brought pride to Nigeria and significantly contributed to the Nigerian diaspora.”

The petition reads. “Abdul is not a criminal; he is a victim of a malicious plot to destroy him.”

Olatunji’s physical and emotional health has reportedly deteriorated.

His family added that without intervention, his life remains in grave danger.

“This is not just about Abdul,” said Ben Abraham of Zarephath Aid. “It is about protecting Nigerians abroad who face unjust persecution despite their positive contributions.

 

“Abdul is an example of what Nigerians can achieve, and he deserves the protection of his country,” he said.

“Abdul is not just a businessman; he is a father, a son, and a role model for Nigerians in the diaspora. Nigeria must act now to bring him home,” the family stated.

 

 

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How Visiting US-based Nigerian bought nine drugs before death 

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How Visiting US-based Nigerian bought nine drugs before death 

How Visiting US-based Nigerian bought nine drugs before death

 

The Ogun State Police Command on Thursday said it found nine different drugs and medications in the hotel room of the visiting US-based 51-year-old Sunday Abidoye whose lifeless body was discovered at the Creestar Hotel room, GRA, Sagamu, on Wednesday.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday to confirm Abidoye’s death.

Odutola explained that the Chief Security Officer of the hotel, one Mr Oluwole, reported the incident regarding the discovery of the deceased customer to the police, five days after his arrival from the United States of America.

She said on receiving the report, a team of detectives visited the scene and on arrival, found the body of the deceased already placed inside a car outside the hotel, being prepared to be taken to the morgue by his family.

 

Odutola said that the deceased’s brother, Jimoh Godday, residing in Imota, Lagos State, informed the police team that his brother had arrived in Nigeria from the USA on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

 

She explained further that Godday said he had called at the hotel on Monday and knocked on Room 109, where his brother was staying, but got no response after which he requested a spare key from the manager to enter the room, where they discovered his brother’s lifeless body.

Odutola said, “Photos were taken, and various drugs and traditional medicines were recovered from the room.

 

“The centre of the bed was soaked with a liquid-like substance. A friend of the deceased, Ogunmonti Ogunwole, confirmed that he accompanied his friend, Sunday, to purchase nine different types of medication the previous day due to his complaints of illness.

“The body has since been evacuated to OOUTH morgue in Sagamu for an autopsy.

“No known cause of death yet, and the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet investigation.”

 

 

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