Popular Nigerian music icon, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, made a striking appearance at the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja today.
The celebrated singer arrived at the court in the company of Natasha Osawaru, the lawmaker representing Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly and the Deputy Majority Leader.
The tribunal, which has been a focal point of political discourse, is currently hearing a petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asuerinme Ighodalo, challenging the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The case has garnered significant public interest due to its potential implications for Edo State’s political landscape.
A High-Profile Courtroom Appearance
The presence of 2Baba at the tribunal raised eyebrows, as the legendary singer is not known for making political statements or engaging in courtroom proceedings.
His appearance alongside Osawaru further fueled speculation about their relationship, which has been making headlines in recent months.
Osawaru, a rising political figure within the PDP, has been actively involved in governance, but her personal life has now become a subject of public curiosity.
As one of the key voices in the Edo State House of Assembly, she has been instrumental in legislative matters, making her alliance with 2Baba all the more intriguing.
Romance and Political Ties
The relationship between 2Baba and Osawaru has been a topic of discussion ever since the singer publicly announced his separation from his wife, Annie Idibia, in January.
The following month, he proposed to Natasha Osawaru, a move that sparked a media frenzy and intense speculation from fans and political analysts alike.
In recent weeks, the couple has been seen together at various high-profile events, from political gatherings to private shopping outings.
Their appearance at the tribunal is being viewed by many as a strong statement about their relationship and growing public presence.
Adding further fuel to the speculation, Osawaru recently updated her Instagram bio to reflect the singer’s surname, now identifying as “Natasha Osawaru-Idibia.” This move came just days after Annie Idibia, 2Baba’s estranged wife, removed “Idibia” from her own social media accounts, seemingly signaling the end of their union.
Legal and Political Implications
While the romance buzz surrounding 2Baba and Osawaru continues to captivate the public, the tribunal itself remains the primary focus for political stakeholders.
The PDP’s petition against Governor Okpebholo is rooted in claims of electoral malpractice and procedural irregularities during the last gubernatorial elections in Edo State.
The party seeks to overturn Okpebholo’s victory, arguing that the election was neither free nor fair.
The outcome of the tribunal could significantly impact the balance of power in the state, potentially reshaping Edo’s political trajectory.
If the court rules in favor of Ighodalo, it could set a precedent for future electoral disputes, while an affirmation of Okpebholo’s victory would solidify the APC’s stronghold in the region.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
Social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions to 2Baba and Osawaru’s tribunal appearance.
While some fans expressed excitement over the singer’s newfound love, others questioned the intersection of entertainment and politics, debating whether celebrity influence should play a role in serious governmental affairs.
Political analysts have also weighed in, with some suggesting that Osawaru’s association with 2Baba could boost her political career, given the singer’s widespread popularity.
Others argue that it could also attract unwanted controversy, particularly in the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the tribunal case.
As the tribunal proceedings continue, attention remains divided between the legal battle over Edo’s governorship and the evolving relationship between 2Baba and Osawaru.
Whether their presence at the courtroom was a mere show of support or a strategic public appearance, it has undoubtedly added another layer of intrigue to an already high-stakes political drama.
For now, all eyes remain on the tribunal’s final verdict, as Edo State awaits a ruling that could redefine its political future.
