By Deborah Nnamdi
Nigerian music legend Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has come under fire after fans noticed the conspicuous absence of his estranged wife, Annie Idibia, from his 25th anniversary appreciation message.
The award-winning singer, who recently marked 25 years in the music industry, shared a heartfelt open letter thanking those who helped shape his journey. In the tribute, 2Baba mentioned industry pioneers such as Nelson Brown, Baba Keke, D1, Eddie Lawani, and DJ Jimmy Jatt, among others. However, Annie Idibia — who was by his side through much of his early career — was not included.
The omission has since ignited a social media storm, with many Nigerians accusing the music icon of ingratitude and failing to acknowledge the woman who supported him through his rise to fame.
“Not thanking the wife of many years ago who stood by you is wickedness,” one user, @puritymoses, wrote. Another, @ezibabyy, added, “In all this, I didn’t see Annie’s appreciation because she was there for you as a wife then.” Similarly, @miss_ulalia_landers urged, “Give Annie her flowers! She was the grace carrier.”
Others, however, defended 2Baba, arguing that he had the right to decide who to acknowledge in his personal reflection. One user, @sandymodiva, commented, “Which wife exactly? The one that was in nursery school when you started, or the one that was there from the beginning?”
Annie Idibia, who rose to public prominence after starring in 2Baba’s 2004 hit song African Queen, has long been associated with the singer’s success story. The song — regarded by many as one of Africa’s greatest love anthems — became a global sensation and was featured in the 2006 Hollywood movie Phat Girlz.
Despite their well-documented marital challenges, fans insist that Annie remains an integral part of 2Baba’s legacy. Her emotional and financial support during his early days, particularly through the Plantashun Boiz era and his solo breakthrough, are well acknowledged by fans and industry observers alike.
The controversy underscores the complexities of celebrity relationships and the blurred line between personal and professional gratitude.
As of press time, 2Baba has not issued any public response to the criticism surrounding the omission.
