Nigerian music icon Innocent “2Baba” Idibia has set social media abuzz after publicly introducing Edo State lawmaker Hon. Natasha Osawaru as his new “African Queen” during a UK tour performance.
The 50-year-old singer, known for his timeless hit African Queen, paused mid-performance at the Nero Experience and Nero Entertainment event to make the announcement. “I want to introduce my African Queen to you all, and I want you guys to meet the love of my life. Honourable Natasha is in the building,” he told the cheering crowd before placing both hands on her shoulders.
The moment, captured on video, marked the first time 2Baba has called another woman his “African Queen” since his separation from actress Annie Macaulay, who was the original muse of the 2004 classic that made him a continental superstar. The song’s music video famously featured Annie and actress Yvonne Jegede, helping to seal Annie’s place in the singer’s personal and artistic legacy.
For almost two decades, Annie was publicly celebrated by 2Baba as his “African Queen,” a title he reaffirmed as recently as January this year during a Lagos performance, months before their separation became public. At the time, when fans called out Annie’s name, 2Baba had responded jokingly: “Annie dey house. For here, we are searching.”
Before the UK concert, few anticipated that the veteran singer would introduce anyone else with that iconic phrase. But the viral clip showed 2Baba embracing Osawaru, describing her as his wife as fans erupted in applause. Osawaru currently serves in the Edo State House of Assembly, while 2Baba holds an advisory role to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia on entertainment and community outreach. His UK tour continues across London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Bristol, and other major cities.
Hours after the video went viral, Annie Macaulay broke her silence through a series of Instagram stories that many fans interpreted as subtle responses to the singer’s public declaration. One clip showed her having breakfast alone with the caption: “I remember when I wanted what I currently have. I’m grateful.” Another video featured men admiring a woman’s beauty, which she captioned, “See, I’m smiling as if I’m the one they’re talking about.”
Annie also reposted a video of a woman saying relationships weren’t part of her plan and praying for God to make her a billionaire, followed by another cryptic message: “Before you bring people down, check their foundation.” The posts came barely a month after Annie wrote an emotional message expressing hope that her daughters would “never endure the same experiences” she did and would always know their worth.
Since separating from 2Baba earlier this year, the actress has gradually redefined her public image — deleting her old posts, dropping the name “Idibia,” and focusing on gratitude, personal peace, and rediscovery. As 2Baba’s new chapter with Hon. Natasha Osawaru unfolds, Annie’s quiet grace continues to capture public sympathy, closing another emotional chapter in one of Nigeria’s most famous love stories.
