Ebenezer Remilekun Aremu Olasupo Obey-Fabiyi, popularly known as Chief Commander, is a highly respected and well-known musician from Nigeria who specializes in juju music. He was born on April 3, 1942, in Idogo, Ogun State, Nigeria. Hailing from the Owu subgroup of the Egba-Yoruba ethnic group, Obey has made significant contributions to the Nigerian music industry throughout his career. With his distinctive style and captivating performances, he has garnered immense popularity and earned the title of Chief Commander.

Ebenezer Obey

Career

Obey started his music career in the mid-1950s when he moved to Lagos. He was guided by Fatai Rolling-Dollar's band and created his own band, The International Brothers, in 1964. His music was a blend of highlife and jùjú styles. In the early 1970s, the band changed and became known as Inter-Reformers. They produced several popular Juju albums under the West African Decca music label.

Obey is famous for his creative use of Yoruba drumming style, and he added more drum kits, guitars, and talking drums to his band. He's skilled at incorporating detailed Yoruba sayings into his dance music, a feature common in Nigerian Yoruba social-circle music. The Inter-Reformers band became known for their songs praising wealthy Nigerian socialites and business people. Apart from that, Obey is well-known for including Christian spiritual themes in his music. Since the early 1990s, he has focused on Nigerian gospel music.

Personal Life And Challenges 

Ebenezer Obey, a renowned Nigerian musician, got married to Juliana Olaide Olufade, and they were blessed with children and grandchildren. Unfortunately, Ebenezer Obey's beloved wife, Lady Evangelist Juliana Obey-Fabiyi, passed away in 2011 at the age of 67. It has now been nine years since her passing.

Tragically, Ebenezer Obey also experienced the loss of one of his sons, Olayinka. According to reports, Olayinka, who was 48 years old, passed away on Friday, July 29. He was laid to rest on Saturday, July 30.

Ebenezer Obey's journey as a musician has been remarkable, and his contributions to the Nigerian music industry are widely recognized. He has enjoyed a successful career, and his music has touched the hearts of many people throughout Nigeria and beyond.

The marriage between Ebenezer Obey and Juliana Olaide Olufade resulted in a loving family that grew to include children and grandchildren. Their union was a source of joy and happiness for them. However, the passing of Lady Evangelist Juliana Obey-Fabiyi in 2011 brought deep sorrow to the family. She was a beloved wife and mother, and her absence has been deeply felt.

It is important to remember and honor the memory of Lady Evangelist Juliana Obey-Fabiyi. She played a significant role in Ebenezer Obey's life, providing love, support, and encouragement. Her passing was a great loss to the family and the music community.

Additionally, the passing of Ebenezer Obey's son, Olayinka, was another heartbreaking event for the family. Losing a loved one is never easy, and the pain of his loss is undoubtedly felt by all who knew him. Olayinka's untimely death has left a void in the lives of his family and friends.

Despite the challenges and sorrows they have faced, the Obey family has shown resilience and strength. They have continued to cherish the memories of their departed loved ones and find solace in the love and support they receive from one another.

Ebenezer Obey's music has been a source of comfort and inspiration to many people. His talent and passion have touched the lives of countless individuals, and his contributions to the Nigerian music industry will always be remembered.

As time passes, the Obey family remains united in their love and support for one another. They find strength in the memories they shared with Lady Evangelist Juliana Obey-Fabiyi and Olayinka, and they continue to celebrate the blessings of children and grandchildren.

Some of Obey's most notable songs include:

- Enia Nwoju

- Ajo Ni Mowa

- Edumare soro mi Dayo

- Eto igbeyawo

- Baba loran mi wa

- Board members 

- Generation to Generation 

- Ara nbada owo oje

- Face to face

- Tribute to Late Chief obafemi awaolowo

- Ebere mole.

Legacy

Ebenezer Obey's legacy is a testament to his incredible talent, dedication, and impact on the Nigerian music industry. He has been a driving force in the evolution of Juju music, blending traditional Yoruba drumming styles with modern instrumentation to create a distinct musical experience. His influence extends far beyond the boundaries of Nigeria, touching the hearts of listeners worldwide and inspiring countless musicians.

Obey's music is not only known for its rhythmic allure but also for its depth and wisdom. His lyrics, often based on Yoruba proverbs and Christian themes, provide insightful commentary on various aspects of life. This has garnered him respect and admiration, not just as a musician, but as a philosopher and a sage.

His dedication to gospel music since the early 1990s also stands as a testament to his deep faith. Despite the success and fame he achieved with secular music, he chose to dedicate his talent to praising God, touching lives in a different but equally profound way.

In his personal life, Obey exemplifies resilience. Despite the heartbreaking losses of his wife and son, he has continued to live and create music with strength and grace. His life serves as a reminder that beauty and joy can persist amidst sorrow, a message often reflected in his music.