Natasha Osawaru, the fiancée of Nigerian music legend Innocent “2face” Idibia, has publicly incorporated his surname into her official introduction, calling herself “Honorable Natasha Irobosa Osawaru nee Idibia” during a recent plenary session at the Edo State House of Assembly. This bold declaration comes amid significant political developments in her legislative career and ongoing public interest in her relationship with the celebrated musician.
A video circulating widely on social media captures the moment when Osawaru, addressing her colleagues in the legislative chamber, formally introduced herself using the hyphenated surname. The declaration marks a significant public acknowledgment of her relationship with 2face, which became public knowledge following the singer’s separation from his wife, Annie Idibia.
The timing of this public name adoption is particularly notable as it coincides with reports that Osawaru has been removed from her position as minority leader for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Edo State House of Assembly. While details surrounding her removal remain limited, sources indicate that another legislator has already been nominated to replace her in this leadership role.
This development has generated mixed reactions online, with supporters of Annie Idibia reportedly celebrating the lawmaker’s political setback. The complex relationship dynamics between 2face, his estranged wife Annie, and Osawaru have been the subject of intense public scrutiny since news of the musician’s new relationship emerged.
Osawaru, who is the granddaughter of prominent Nigerian businessman Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, appears unfazed by the political challenges or public commentary. In what many interpret as a response to critics, she recently shared a video of herself in her office, dressed in white attire complemented by a black hat, conducting business as usual while seated at her desk.
The relationship between 2face and Osawaru represents a significant chapter in the personal life of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated musicians. 2face, known for hits like “African Queen” and numerous other chart-topping songs spanning over two decades, has been a dominant figure in the Nigerian music industry since his days with the group Plantashun Boyz before launching his successful solo career.
Cultural commentators note that the public adoption of a partner’s surname before marriage, especially by someone in a position of political visibility, indicates a strong commitment to the relationship and potentially signals confidence about future marital plans. In Nigerian cultural contexts, the use of “nee” typically follows marriage rather than engagement, making Osawaru’s choice particularly noteworthy.
What we’re seeing is a bold statement about her relationship status and future intentions,” explains social anthropologist Dr. Nkechi Okoye. “By publicly adopting the Idibia name while still maintaining her birth name and political identity as Osawaru, she’s effectively communicating the seriousness of her commitment to 2face while asserting her independent identity as a legislator.”
The relationship between 2face and Osawaru emerged publicly following what has been reported as the end of the musician’s marriage to Annie Idibia. Their marital challenges had previously become public knowledge through social media posts and reality TV appearances, with the couple’s difficulties documented in ways that attracted significant public attention.
Political analysts in Edo State suggest that Osawaru’s removal as minority leader may be connected to broader political realignments within the state’s legislative assembly rather than her personal life, though the coincidental timing has inevitably led to speculation. The PDP in Edo State has experienced various internal challenges as the state approaches its next gubernatorial election cycle.
Legislative leadership changes are not uncommon in Nigerian state assemblies, particularly as political calculations shift ahead of election seasons,” notes political analyst Emmanuel Obaseki. “However, the high-profile nature of Hon. Osawaru’s personal life inevitably colors public perception of these normal political processes.”
Osawaru’s legislative career began with her election to represent Egor constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly. Her pedigree as a granddaughter of Chief Igbinedion, one of Nigeria’s most influential business figures and former Esama of Benin Kingdom, has added another dimension of public interest to her political journey.
The lawmaker appears determined to continue her legislative duties despite the recent changes. Her office video showing her engaged in work discussions projects an image of business as usual, suggesting she intends to maintain her professional focus regardless of developments in her political position or personal life.
For 2face, this relationship represents another chapter in what has been a complex personal life that has frequently intersected with his public persona. The musician, father to seven children from previous relationships including his marriage to Annie, has maintained a relatively low profile regarding this new relationship, allowing Osawaru to navigate the public aspects of their partnership.
Entertainment industry observers note that 2face has historically preferred to keep his personal life private despite its inevitable public interest, focusing instead on his musical legacy and humanitarian work. His foundation has been active in peace-building initiatives and youth empowerment programs across Nigeria.
As the situation continues to evolve, public interest remains high in both the political trajectory of Honorable Osawaru and the personal journey of one of Nigeria’s most beloved musical icons. The intersection of entertainment, politics, and personal relationships continues to captivate public attention, reflecting the complex ways these spheres influence each other in contemporary Nigerian society.
Whether Osawaru’s adoption of the Idibia surname signals an imminent wedding announcement or simply represents her current commitment level remains to be seen. What’s clear is that both her political career and personal relationship continue to evolve in the public eye, creating a narrative that spans Nigeria’s entertainment and political landscapes.
