Nigerian music legend Innocent “2Baba” Idibia has once again placed himself at the centre of media conversation following his public introduction of Honourable Natasha Osawaru, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly, as his new “African Queen.” The unexpected development, which unfolded during one of his current UK tour stops, has set social media buzzing with discussions about love, legacy, and moving forward.
These latest headlines broke out after a striking scene during a performance organised by Nero Experience and Nero Entertainment. 2Baba, celebrated as a pioneer in the Afrobeats scene and respected across the continent, was seen pausing mid-song, turning the stage lights on Ms Osawaru, and introducing her warmly to a cheering crowd. Clips from the moment quickly spread on Instagram and other social platforms, further fuelling a viral discussion. (
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His words—“I want to introduce my African Queen to you all, and I want you guys to meet the love of my life. Honourable Natasha is in the building”—were met with thunderous applause as he approached the lawmaker, placing both hands affectionately on her shoulders. The gesture was significant, not just as a personal declaration but for its cultural resonance. For nearly twenty years, “African Queen” has been a song synonymous with 2Baba’s image and a title long reserved for his estranged wife, the Nollywood actress Annie Macaulay.
“African Queen”: A Song and Symbol
“African Queen,” released in 2004 as part of his debut solo project “Face 2 Face” under Kennis Music, quickly became an anthem across Africa. The song’s music video famously featured both Annie and actress Yvonne Jegede, reinforcing Annie’s role as the inspiration behind the love song. Over the years, Annie became publicly identified as 2Baba’s muse and was often tagged as his “African Queen” in interviews and on stage, embedding the phrase as part of the couple’s legacy.
Earlier this year, even as the couple’s relationship appeared strained, 2Baba was seen referencing Annie at a performance marking the 65th anniversary reunion of Christ Apostolic Grammar School Old Students Association (CAGSOSA). When fans called out Annie’s name, he responded with the comment, “I see say some of una dey shout ‘Annie’ for that side. Annie dey house, she dey house. For here, we are searching.” (see performance reference)
Shifting Foundations: New Faces, New Beginnings?
Few fans or observers anticipated seeing the singer publicly introduce another woman as his “African Queen,” certainly not on a stage filled with expectant fans. The viral video from the UK event, now widely circulated on TikTok and WhatsApp in Nigeria, shows 2Baba acknowledging Natasha Osawaru not only as a partner but as his wife. The sight of a renowned Nigerian music icon embracing an Edo State legislator amid cheers underscores changing dynamics in celebrity relationships across the region.
Honourable Natasha Osawaru is herself no stranger to public service, having served her constituents in the Edo State House of Assembly. For audiences back home, her linkage with 2Baba has prompted debates on social media about women in politics, inter-state relationships, and the evolving role of public figures in private matters.
Meanwhile, 2Baba remains a cultural heavyweight. Besides his recording career, he holds the role of Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach to Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State. His UK tour continues with scheduled performances in major cities such as London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Bristol, Chelmsford, Bournemouth, Sheffield, and Cardiff, further cementing his status as an international star representing Nigeria on the global stage.
Public Reactions and Personal Reflections
Almost immediately after the public introduction, Annie Macaulay-Idibia posted a string of updates on Instagram, offering followers a glimpse into her state of mind following her estranged husband’s announcement. The mother-of-two shared short video stories and images, providing personal reflections and seemingly guarded responses. One clip showed her dining alone, with a reflective caption: “I remember when I wanted what I currently have. I’m grateful.”
Her Instagram stories included memes and videos depicting self-acceptance, gratitude, and optimism. In one story, Annie showed a group of men admiring beauty photos on their phones, playfully captioning it: “Thank you. See, I’m smiling as if I were the one they’re talking about.” (see Instagram story) In a separate post, Annie shared a video of a woman humorously stating that relationships were not in her plans, but hoping to become a billionaire through God’s grace. (see Instagram story)
Adding a thoughtful note, she posted a cryptic message: “check the foundation” of others before trying to tear them down, a quip many interpreted as a subtle response to ongoing public scrutiny. (see Instagram story)
Many Nigerian netizens quickly interpreted these posts as indirect reactions to the “African Queen” introduction. The online conversation has since moved beyond celebrity gossip, sparking broader debates around marriage, self-worth, and the complexities of public relationships in the African context.
The Broader Context: Love, Legacy, and Reinvention
Annie’s latest social media updates come just a month after she shared her hopes for her daughters’ futures on Instagram. She prayed that they would quickly realise their value and always know she would stand by them, regardless of circumstances. According to reports, Annie also wished for her children to grow up believing “the grass is greener wherever they stand,” signalling a strong commitment to their self-esteem, especially in the face of high-profile family changes.
These reflections mark another chapter in the ongoing saga between the singer and actress, which first made national news when Annie publicly addressed their separation. In March, she appeared on social media following a two-month hiatus, rebranding her online persona by deleting all previous posts and dropping “Idibia” from her surnames, a bold move signalling personal reinvention and intention to move forward independently.
Perspectives from Nigeria and Across Africa
Celebrity relationships in Nigeria, particularly those involving music and Nollywood stars, are subject to intense scrutiny, with personal developments often interpreted as symbols of societal trends. Dr. Kemi Adebayo, a Lagos-based sociologist, notes, “Many fans are looking for role models and cues on handling changes in relationships. 2Baba and Annie’s story is relevant because it mirrors the real-life experiences of countless Nigerians navigating love, marriage, and changing family structures.”
For many West Africans, 2Baba’s open declaration is seen as both a personal milestone and a public shift in the artist’s narrative. As Ghanaian music critic Samuel Odame observes, “The ‘African Queen’ introduction is not just about a new relationship; it’s about how our icons evolve, redefine their legacy, and influence how we see ourselves culturally and personally.”
Online reactions, meanwhile, remain divided. Some supporters applaud 2Baba’s courage to move forward and follow his heart, while others express empathy for Annie and focus on the lessons in resilience and self-love shared through her recent posts. The conversation also highlights the pressures public figures face as they navigate changes in their private lives while in the full glare of public attention.
What Lies Ahead: Lessons and Local Impact
For Nigerian audiences and viewers across West Africa, this high-profile development invites wider reflection. How do public icons shape perceptions of love, loyalty, and reinvention? What support and understanding should people, especially women, expect in the face of relationship changes in a society balancing tradition and modernity?
As 2Baba continues his UK performances and Annie embarks on a new phase of her life, Nigerians and Africans alike will be watching closely—not just out of celebrity curiosity, but for the bigger stories about self-definition, resilience, and the ever-evolving meaning of “African Queen” in contemporary society.
What are your thoughts on the latest twist in 2Baba and Annie’s story? Do you believe that public figures should keep their personal lives private or are these moments part of what makes them relatable? Drop your views in the comments and make sure to follow us for more updates and in-depth stories on your favourite stars and newsmakers.
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