Ebenezer Obey: Profile of Nigeria’s iconic music maestro

Ebenezer Remilekun Aremu Olasupo Obey-Fabiyi, popularly known as Ebenezer Obey or Chief Commander, is one of Nigeria’s most influential musicians.

He is well known to for rebranding jùjú music, blending traditional Yoruba rhythms with contemporary sounds.

His illustrious career, spanning over six decades, has earned him numerous accolades, financial success, and a revered status in Nigerian music history.

Profile overview

Name: Ebenezer Remilekun Aremu Olasupo

Other names: Ebenezer Obey, Chief Commander

Born: April 3, 1942

State of origin: Ogun

Marital status: Married

Career: Musician

Background

Hailing from the Egba-Yoruba Owu subgroup, Ebenezer Obey’s passion for music ignited at a young age.

Born on April 3, 1942, in Idogo, Ogun State, he grew up immersed in Yoruba traditions, which later influenced his distinctive musical style.

His early exposure to indigenous rhythms and storytelling played a crucial role in shaping his career as one of Nigeria’s most iconic jùjú musicians.

Music career

In the mid-1950s, he moved to Lagos, Nigeria’s entertainment hub, where he apprenticed under the highlife legend Fatai Rolling Dollar.

By 1964, he formed his own band, The International Brothers, which later transformed into Inter-Reformers in the 1970s.

His musical style combined jùjú with Yoruba proverbs, life lessons, and Christian themes, making his songs both entertaining and educative.

Achievements

Ebenezer Obey is widely regarded as a pioneer in modern jùjú music, bringing innovative elements such as:

• Expanded percussion setups (introducing more drum kits and talking drums)
• Complex guitar arrangements
• Philosophical and spiritual lyrics emphasizing morality, family values, and faith

His music became a staple at social gatherings, particularly among the Nigerian elite, as he was known for praise-singing wealthy business moguls and dignitaries.

However, unlike many musicians of his time, Obey also infused gospel themes, which later led him to transition into gospel music in the early 1990s.

Beyond Nigeria, Obey gained international recognition, performing in Europe and the United States, and solidifying his place as a cultural ambassador for African music.

Honors

Due to his immense contribution to Nigerian music and culture, Ebenezer Obey has received several prestigious awards and honors, including:

• Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) – A national honor from the Nigerian government
• Special Recognition from the Nigerian Music Industry for his impact on jùjú music
• Lifetime Achievement Awards from various organizations, including City People Entertainment Awards
• Honorary Doctorate Degrees from notable Nigerian universities for his contributions to music and culture

His ability to adapt across generations, combining secular jùjú music with Christian themes, has made him one of the most respected figures in Nigerian entertainment.

Personal life

Ebenezer Obey married Lady Evangelist Juliana Obey-Fabiyi in 1963, and they shared many decades together before her passing in 2011.

Their union was blessed with children and grandchildren, and despite the loss of his wife, Obey has continued to dedicate himself to music, evangelism, and mentorship.

Net worth

Ebenezer Obey us currently estimated to be worth around $5 million earned from his music career and business ventures.

Discography

With over 50 albums, Ebenezer Obey has produced some of the most iconic records in Nigerian music history. His most notable works include:

• Ewa Wo Ohun Ojuri
• Ode To Nso Eledumare
• In London
• The Horse, The Man and His Son
• Operation Feed The Nation
• Current Affairs
• Austerity
• The Only Condition to Save Nigeria
• Immortality
• Count Your Blessings
• I Am a Winner
• Ase Oluwa, among others.