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Birthday Tribute:
BY OLOYE ‘LEKAN ALABI
Professor (Evangelist) Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, MFR, marked his 83rd birthday on Thursday, April 3, 2025. Long live the world-acclaimed Chief Commander of Juju music, whose unique style is fondly referred to as the Miliki System.
When Obey clocked 60 years old in 2002, I penned a diamond anniversary tribute in his honour titled: “Obey the Ali In You.”
This heartfelt tribute was widely published across major Nigerian newspapers. For ease of reference, one can consult the April 21, 2002 issue of the Comet Newspaper, where it appeared.
A decade later, like millions of fans around the globe, I once again celebrated the sage of the stage with another tribute, this time titled: “Obey As A Buoy.”(See the attached copy)
My earliest encounter with Ebenezer Obey and his International Brothers Band dates back to the 1960s, when I danced live to his music during the “Come, Let’s Dance” programme.
This was a weekly entertainment show held every Wednesday on Africa’s first television station, the Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), Ibadan, established in 1959.
The regular compère for “Come, Let’s Dance” was the late Toun Adeyemi, a British-educated, velvet-voiced presenter who later transitioned from television to law practice. Obey’s presence added class and charm to the show that brought music lovers together.
Another unforgettable moment was in 1970, when I attended a party hosted by the Oyenugas for their matriarch at Isale-Gangan on Lagos Island.
That gathering, which featured Obey’s live performance, remains a cherished memory from 55 years ago.
In 2012, when Ebenezer Obey turned 70, I had the honour of chairing the Ebenezer Obey 70th Birthday Planning Committee – a role I proudly embraced in celebrating a living legend.
My personal connection with Obey deepened in 1973, when I was appointed the Social/Entertainment Editor of the now-defunct Sunday Sketch newspaper.
That marked the beginning of a warm friendship that has endured for 52 years.
Obey and his band performed at my 40th birthday party in Ibadan in 1990, and again at my 60th birthday in 2010.
The diamond anniversary celebration in 2010 was held in grand style at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Agodi GRA – a memorable event graced by the Miliki maestro himself.
As we celebrated the remarkable life and legacy of Professor (Evangelist) Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, we wish the Juju Miliki music legend many happy returns of the day – in good health, peace, and continued happiness. May his music and message continue to inspire generations to come.
*Oloye ‘Lekan Alabi, the Maye Olubadan of Ibadanland writes from Ibadan, Oyo State.
Note: The attached photos visually capture some of the moments described above.
