Firstbank-sponsored ‘Obey the Musical’ stage play thrills audience in Lagos
… reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to promoting arts and culture.
First Bank of Nigeria Limited has sponsored the stage play Obey The Musical, a biographical production celebrating the life and legacy of juju music icon, Evangelist Professor Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi.
The two-day performance, held on December 25 and 26 at the Agip Hall, Muson Centre, Lagos Island, attracted large audiences who gathered as part of the Yuletide festivities. The play was hosted by Joseph Edgar of The Duke of Somolu Foundation and written by Emmanuel Adejumo, son of the late veteran comedian, Baba Sala.
Obey The Musical tells the true-life story of Chief Ebenezer Obey, widely regarded as one of the pioneers who took juju music from the streets to mainstream popularity in Nigeria. Through a blend of live music, traditional dance, drama and storytelling, the production traced Obey’s journey from his early years in school to his rise as a household name in the Nigerian music industry.
Before the intermission, Edgar paid tribute to the late Segun Awolowo Jr., a strong supporter of the foundation’s productions. A minute of silence was observed in his honour, led by veteran actor and talk show host, Yemi Sodimu.
Also speaking, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Managing Director of Oodu’a Investment Company Limited, described Awolowo Jr. as a committed patron of the arts and commended the production team and sponsors for sustaining his passion for theatre.
The play highlighted Obey’s formative years, his academic excellence, and his unwavering determination to succeed in music. It also explored defining moments in his career, including his breakthrough at Deca Records, where his preparation and talent earned him an immediate recording deal.
A major emotional point in the production was the portrayal of the tragic loss of Obey’s wife, a moment that deeply affected the musician and influenced his artistic expression. The scene drew strong emotional reactions from the audience, with many moved to tears by the actors’ performance.
The production further examined Obey’s transition into evangelism, showing how his Christian faith reshaped his music and life direction.
The story underscored themes of perseverance, discipline, faith, and consistency, presenting Obey’s life as both an artistic journey and a moral lesson.
Directed by Joseph Edgar, popularly known as the Duke of Somolu, the production was praised for its attention to detail, from costumes and makeup to stage design and orchestration. The live band performed several of Obey’s classic songs, prompting many audience members to sing along during the show.
Speaking after the performance, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to promoting arts and culture in Nigeria.
“FirstBank is committed to creating memorable homecoming experiences during the festive season, from family reunions to cultural celebrations. Our partnership with the Duke of Somolu on this production reflects our long-standing support for the creative industry and the arts,” Ijabiyi said.
He added that FirstBank, through its First@arts initiative, has 131 years of history supporting Nigeria’s creative sector, and encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of the entertainment offerings under the bank’s DecemberIssaVybe campaign.
DecemberIssaVybe is FirstBank’s annual festive campaign designed to boost Nigeria’s arts and entertainment industry by providing platforms for live performances, concerts and cultural events throughout December. The campaign targets both local and international audiences, offering, as the bank describes, a premium homecoming experience.
FirstBank also disclosed that preparations are already underway for the 2026 edition of DecemberIssaVybe, with plans to deliver more entertainment experiences for customers and the general public.
