Nigerian music icon 2Baba, born Innocent Idibia, is once again making headlines—but this time, not for his chart-topping hits or philanthropic endeavors. The legendary artist has drawn attention from Italy’s prominent fashion watchdog, T20luxury, over allegations of wearing counterfeit designer clothing. This scrutiny comes amid swirling rumors about his personal life, particularly concerning his marriage and a speculated connection with politician Natasha Osawaru. As the news spreads, fans and critics alike are weighing in on the controversy, sparking debates around authenticity, image management, and celebrity relationships.
The incident began when a viral video surfaced showing 2Baba at a Lagos nightclub alongside Afrobeats superstar Davido and Natasha Osawaru. In the footage, the “African Queen” singer was seen dressed in what appeared to be a brown Fendi shirt, black jeans, and a matching cap. However, T20luxury quickly pointed out that the outfit was not an authentic Fendi piece but rather a counterfeit imitation. Known for its sharp eye and unrelenting stance against fake designer goods, the Italian-based watchdog addressed 2Baba directly, urging him to prioritize authenticity in his wardrobe choices.
In their statement, T20luxury approached the matter respectfully, acknowledging 2Baba’s status as a legend in the creative industry. They wrote, “Dear Legendary 2Baba, we understand that as an artist, you may rely on stylists or personal shoppers to curate your wardrobe and accessories. However, there is a possibility that counterfeit items may have unintentionally entered your collection through third-party sources.” The message went on to emphasize the importance of maintaining credibility both personally and professionally, advising the singer to source original items directly from verified vendors or high-end brands.
The post also included practical recommendations for avoiding counterfeit products, such as working exclusively with certified professionals and exercising due diligence when selecting stylists. T20luxury concluded by requesting that 2Baba share their advice with his team, reinforcing the idea that public figures bear a responsibility to uphold the integrity of the fashion industry.
While the fashion watchdog’s comments were constructive, they ignited a wave of reactions online. Social media users flocked to comment sections, offering their opinions on everything from 2Baba’s alleged faux pas to the broader implications of his rumored relationship with Natasha Osawaru. Some comments leaned toward humor, while others expressed disappointment or outright disbelief.
One user, @omowunmi_ogungbaibi, quipped sarcastically, “How can person dating Natasha wear original, when he left original for inferior?” The remark seemingly referenced lingering questions about 2Baba’s marital status and his reported closeness to Osawaru. Another commenter, @yasssssssxs, chimed in with a playful jab, saying, “Good! Help me check that Natasha bag too, ty,” alluding to speculation about whether Osawaru herself might be sporting counterfeit accessories.
Meanwhile, other netizens defended 2Baba, arguing that mistakes happen even to the most influential personalities. @eniolaworldwide praised T20luxury’s page, expressing interest in seeing more content related to the singer. Meanwhile, @o2_luxury_fashion doubled down on the accusation, pointing out specific details about the outfit that supposedly confirmed it was fake. “Fake, only the metal buttons already showed it is fake FENDI,” they asserted.
The timing of this controversy adds another layer of intrigue, given the ongoing buzz surrounding 2Baba’s personal life. For months, rumors have circulated about his marriage to Jessie Idibia, which appears to have hit a rough patch. Reports suggest that the couple has been living separately, fueling speculation about the state of their union. Adding to the drama is the emergence of Natasha Osawaru, a politician and businesswoman, who has reportedly grown close to the singer. Their interactions, including appearances together at events, have sparked whispers of romance, though neither party has publicly addressed the nature of their relationship.
Against this backdrop, T20luxury’s critique takes on added significance. Public figures like 2Baba often serve as role models, influencing trends and setting standards within their industries. When someone of his stature is accused of wearing counterfeit clothing, it raises questions about accountability and the impact of such actions on consumer behavior. Counterfeit goods undermine legitimate designers, erode trust in luxury brands, and contribute to unethical labor practices—a reality that T20luxury seeks to combat through its advocacy work.
For 2Baba, whose career spans decades and continents, maintaining a polished image has always been crucial. From his early days as part of the Plantashun Boiz to his solo success and humanitarian efforts, he has consistently projected professionalism and authenticity. This latest incident, however, highlights the challenges of navigating fame in an era where every detail of one’s appearance—and private life—is subject to intense scrutiny.
Despite the backlash, many fans remain supportive of the artist, viewing the situation as a minor misstep rather than a major scandal. To them, 2Baba’s contributions to music, culture, and society far outweigh any wardrobe mishap. Others see the episode as a reminder of the pressures faced by celebrities, who must constantly balance personal preferences with public expectations.
As the conversation unfolds, one thing is clear: 2Baba’s place in the spotlight ensures that every move he makes will be analyzed and debated. Whether addressing accusations of counterfeit attire or navigating the complexities of his personal relationships, the singer continues to captivate audiences worldwide. What remains to be seen is how he—and those around him—will respond to these developments.
For now, the focus remains on authenticity—not just in fashion but in all aspects of life. T20luxury’s message serves as a timely reminder that true value lies in transparency, integrity, and respect for craftsmanship. And as 2Baba navigates this chapter of his journey, his ability to rise above the noise and stay true to himself will undoubtedly shape the narrative moving forward.
Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: the world will be watching.
