In a recent turn of events at Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), the General Secretary of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Comrade Yusuph Sholagbade has issued a strong rebuttal to his suspension by the Senate House. The suspension, which was publicly announced during the 5th and the 6th Business Meeting of the Parliamentary arm due to allegations of inactivity, specifically the failure to attend to key meetings.
However, the General Secretary’s formal response, addressed to the Senate President of the Senate House, raises several serious concerns that go beyond the immediate issue of attendance.
1. Issues of Integrity and Transparency
In their letter, the General Secretary has highlighted a troubling pattern of lack of integrity and transparency within the administration. He stated that he has being consistently excluded from decision-making processes and accused various members of forging his signature on important documents. Such actions not only undermine the principles of accountability but also jeopardize the credibility of the entire administration.
2. Criticism of the Acting President
The General Secretary has also taken issue with the Acting President, alleging that she has been making executive decisions and conducting transactions without proper consultation or approval. This bypassing of established procedures not only contravenes the constitution but also places the General Secretary in a difficult position, as their role and responsibilities have been compromised.
A significant part of the General Secretary’s response is dedicated to critiquing the Senate House for its failure to address these issues earlier. Instead of investigating the root causes of the mismanagement and irregularities within the council, the Senate has opted to suspend the General Secretary over a single incident. This reactionary approach does not address the broader issues at play and raises questions about the Senate’s commitment to effective oversight.
4. Ethical Considerations and Reduced Participation
The General Secretary clarified that their perceived inactivity was a deliberate choice to distance themselves from unethical practices they observed within the administration. Rather than neglecting their duties, they chose to uphold the integrity of their office and avoid being associated with practices lacking transparency and accountability.
Call for Review and Investigation
In light of these serious concerns, the General Secretary has requested a formal review of the Central Executive Council’s actions, a reconsideration of their suspension, and an investigation into the conduct of the Acting President and the forgery allegations. They have emphasized their commitment to restoring integrity and transparency within the SUG.
This bold response from the General Secretary underscores the need for a thorough and transparent review of the current administration’s practices. As the student body awaits further developments, the call for accountability and integrity remains at the forefront of the conversation.
In a surprising development, the Acting President of the Student Union of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), along with six other key members of the Student Union Executive Council, has been suspended until further notice. The decision was announced during the 5th and 6th business meetings of the Student Union Parliament, held recently to address concerns about leadership inactivity within the Union.
The following executives have been suspended:
Acting President
Welfare Director
General Secretary
Sport Director
Financial Secretary
Treasurer
Public Relations Officer
Social Director
Suspension Due to Leadership Inactivity
According to reports, the suspension was enforced after it was observed that the aforementioned executives had shown a significant lack of activity in fulfilling their roles as leaders of the TASUED Student Union. The inactivity raised concerns among members of the Parliament, leading to a vote for suspension in order to ensure proper leadership and accountability within the student body.
Disciplinary Action Pending
The suspended executives are now required to appear before an in-house disciplinary committee to explain the reasons for their inactivity. The committee will evaluate the defenses put forward by the executives and determine whether their suspension should be lifted or if further action, including impeachment, will be taken.
Failure to provide satisfactory explanations for their inaction may result in the impeachment of these executives from their respective positions.
Upholding Leadership Standards
This suspension marks a significant step by the Student Union Parliament to uphold high standards of leadership and ensure that those in executive positions are actively working to represent and address the needs of the student body. Students and stakeholders across the university community are closely following the developments, awaiting the outcome of the disciplinary process.
Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding story as TASUED’s Student Union navigates this period of transition and accountability.
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Nigeria’s Junior D’Tigers have bowed out of the 2024 FIBA U18 Men’s Afrobasket Championship after a hard-fought 81-70 loss to Mali in the quarter-finals. The game, held in Madagascar, was a tightly contested encounter that saw both teams battling for a spot in the semi-finals.
The Junior D’Tigers put up a spirited performance, showcasing their resilience and determination. However, despite their best efforts, the Malians managed to pull ahead in the final moments of the game, securing the win and advancing to the next round.
It was a valiant effort from Nigeria’s U18 men’s team, who have demonstrated immense talent and potential throughout the tournament. While the result may be disappointing, the boys can hold their heads high, knowing they fought until the very end.
This marks the end of Nigeria’s journey in this year’s championship, but the future remains bright for these young male stars. The experience gained from the tournament will undoubtedly help shape them into stronger athletes for future competitions.
Though the Junior D’Tigers missed out on a semi-final ticket, they have earned the respect and admiration of fans with their tenacity and passion for the game. We are proud of their journey and look forward to seeing them bounce back stronger.
The Junior D’Tigress of Nigeria have continued their impressive run at the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s Afrobasket Championship, defeating Egypt 66-51 in a thrilling quarter-final clash in Pretoria, South Africa.
From the first quarter, the Nigerian team set the pace with a strong display of teamwork, resilience, and solid defense. Despite Egypt’s attempts to claw back into the game, Nigeria’s tactical edge and superior athleticism carried them through to the end. The victory secured their spot in the semi-finals, where they will face Uganda for a chance to advance to the finals.
The Junior D’Tigress have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the tournament, showcasing the rich talent pool in Nigerian basketball. The team’s chemistry and determination were evident in their performance against Egypt, as they dominated both ends of the court.
As the team prepares to face Uganda, expectations are high, and Nigerian fans are rallying behind these young athletes. Their journey has been an inspiring one, as they continue to show that the future of Nigerian basketball is bright.
We wish the Junior D’Tigress all the best in the semi-finals. Keep flying the flag high, girls!
In a bid to further support student mobility and welfare, the Ogun State Government has donated an 18-seater coaster bus to the Students Union of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED). The official handover took place at the state office in Abeokuta, where representatives from both the government and the university’s Students Union were present to mark the occasion.
The donation aims to ease transportation challenges for the Students Union, enabling smoother coordination of student-related activities both within and outside the university. The bus is expected to enhance the union’s capacity to manage student affairs, organize events, and represent the interests of the TASUED student body more efficiently.
During the handover ceremony, government officials reiterated their commitment to improving education and providing necessary support for students across Ogun State. They highlighted that the donation was part of broader efforts to invest in education and empower student leaders.
The TASUED Students Union expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, acknowledging that the bus will significantly aid their operations, especially in connecting with students across various locations. The union emphasized that the vehicle will play a key role in strengthening communication and transportation for official student engagements.
This donation represents another step in the state’s ongoing mission to enhance the quality of education and student experience in its institutions, reaffirming Ogun State’s dedication to the growth and welfare of its young population.
Music of Mohbad – The name Mohbad resonates deeply within the Nigerian music scene. Known for his raw energy, streetwise lyrics, and catchy hooks, he became a prominent figure in the Afrobeats and street-hop scene. With a voice that captured both the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, Mohbad left behind a musical legacy that still echoes today. In this blog post, we’ll explore the full breadth of his discography, from hit singles to his notable albums, and how each song contributed to his rise as a street icon. Mohbad death
Early Singles and Breakout Success
Mohbad, born Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, started his musical journey like many young artists in Nigeria—working his way up through collaborations and street anthems. His breakthrough came when he signed with Marlian Music, Naira Marley’s record label, which gave him the platform to deliver some of his early notable singles.
KPK (Ko Por Ke) – ft. Rexxie This song became a street anthem almost instantly. Collaborating with the talented producer Rexxie, Mohbad created a hit that dominated the charts and street parties alike. The song’s infectious beat and memorable chorus (“Ko Por Ke”) made it an anthem that celebrated winning and success, themes that resonated deeply with his audience.
Ponmo – ft. Naira Marley & Lil Kesh Another significant moment in Mohbad’s career was the release of Ponmo, a raunchy, party-themed song featuring label boss Naira Marley and fellow street-hop artist Lil Kesh. The song was celebrated for its playful, energetic vibe and became a go-to track at parties and clubs.
Feel Good With Feel Good, Mohbad shifted his tone to something more upbeat and celebratory, with a hook that perfectly captured the carefree, feel-good moments. This track saw Mohbad experimenting with more polished Afrobeats sounds while maintaining his street cred.
Mohbad’s Albums/EPs
Light EP (2020) “Light” was Mohbad’s debut EP, featuring a mix of street-hop and mainstream Afrobeats. It consists of the following tracks:
Ponmo ft. Naira Marley & Lil Kesh
Marlians Anthem
Holy
Father Abraham
Omokomo
Ask About Me
Overhype
Sorry
Blessed (2023) Released in 2023, “Blessed” further demonstrated Mohbad’s versatility and ability to blend different genres. The album includes:
Comprehensive Mohbad Songs List (Including Album Tracks and Singles):
Singles/Collaborations:
KPK (Ko Por Ke) – ft. Rexxie
Once Debe – ft. Davido
Jah Cover Me
KPK (Remix) – ft. Sho Madjozi
Money – ft. Bella Shmurda
Ponmo (Remix)
Dido Lobo – ft. Naira Marley & C Blvck
Shingbain – ft. Naira Marley
Are You Sure – ft. Zinoleesky, Naira Marley & C Blvck
Jafafa – ft. Naira Marley
Fada – ft. Zlatan Ibile & Naira Marley
Overload – ft. Olamide
Riot
Aje
Caution – ft. Barry Jhay
Feelings (single version)
Tiff (single version)
Imole (single version)
Sorry for the Stress
Real Hustlers
Modupe
Gumbody
Lamba
Mohbad’s Freestyle
Balan Zia Gar
Maruwa
Mohbad Fire (Freestyle)
Owoale
Don’t Be Proud
E Get Why
Oba Imole
Beast and Peace
Oja
Inside Life
BB2 Poverty
Weekend
Sabi
Baba Nla
Mi O Foh
Omo Ase
2. Ponmo ft. Naira Marley & Lil Kesh
An upbeat and cheeky track, “Ponmo” used food metaphors to create a playful street anthem. The collaboration with Naira Marley and Lil Kesh solidified its success.
4. Komajensun ft. Naira Marley
An energetic, no-nonsense track, “Komajensun” quickly became a favorite for fans of Mohbad’s street-savvy lyrics and sharp delivery.
5. Marlians Anthem
A tribute to the Marlian movement, this song resonated deeply with Mohbad’s fan base, encapsulating the carefree, bold lifestyle of Naira Marley’s crew.
6. Backside
A playful track with suggestive lyrics, “Backside” became a popular party jam, known for its infectious rhythm and dance-worthy beat.
7. Ronaldo
This song saw Mohbad comparing his ambition and success to that of Cristiano Ronaldo, a testament to his desire to be the best in his field.
8. Once Debe ft. Davido
Mohbad teamed up with Afrobeats superstar Davido on this track, creating a hit that reflected on their journey to success and the challenges they’ve overcome.
9. Peace
A more introspective song, “Peace” touched on Mohbad’s personal struggles and his search for inner calm despite the pressures of fame and life’s challenges.
10. Tiff
In “Tiff,” Mohbad addresses themes of trust and betrayal, reflecting on relationships and how people can deceive or take advantage of others.
11. Omokomo
A song that further explores the theme of loyalty, “Omokomo” sees Mohbad addressing the challenges that come with success, particularly dealing with jealousy and envy.
12. Holy
In “Holy,” Mohbad reflects on his career and how his success has been divinely guided. The song’s introspective lyrics resonated with fans who saw it as a statement of Mohbad’s independence and resilience.
13. Cinderella ft. Zinoleesky
A collaboration with Zinoleesky, “Cinderella” is a romantic track where both artists sing about love, admiration, and the thrill of chasing a beautiful woman.
14. Ask About Me
Released as a way to solidify his place in the industry, “Ask About Me” saw Mohbad flex his accomplishments, letting listeners know just how far he’s come in his career.
15. Feelings
A reflective track where Mohbad touches on emotional struggles, “Feelings” showcased a more vulnerable side of the artist, delving into themes of love, heartbreak, and emotional growth.
16. Jah Cover Me
Mohbad’s prayerful side comes out in “Jah Cover Me,” a song that reflects his belief in divine protection as he navigates the challenges of life and fame.
17. Father Abraham
A playful and witty song, “Father Abraham” saw Mohbad creating a fun track that took off in parties and among street-hop fans.
18. Overhype
“Overhype” is a track where Mohbad addresses his critics and doubters, declaring his rightful place in the music industry despite the obstacles he’s faced.
19. Adura
In “Adura,” Mohbad focuses on prayers and hope for better days, delivering a message of optimism and faith, which resonated with fans facing similar struggles.
20. KPK (Remix) ft. Sho Madjozi
This remix saw Mohbad collaborating with South African artist Sho Madjozi, expanding the reach of “KPK” and cementing its place as a cross-border hit.
21. Money ft. Bella Shmurda
A track that addresses the hustle for financial success, “Money” features Bella Shmurda and explores the themes of hard work, street life, and the desire for wealth.
22. Pariwo ft. Oladips
“Pariwo” was a powerful collaboration with Oladips, where both artists discussed the challenges of street life and the importance of perseverance.
23. Sorry
A more personal and apologetic song, “Sorry” showed Mohbad’s willingness to reflect on his mistakes and seek redemption, making it one of his more emotionally resonant tracks.
24. Blessings
In “Blessings,” Mohbad once again focuses on his gratitude for the success and opportunities he’s had, acknowledging both the highs and lows of his journey.
Features/Notable Guest Appearances:
Ponmo (ft. Naira Marley & Lil Kesh)
Jafafa (ft. Naira Marley)
Are You Sure (ft. Zinoleesky, Naira Marley & C Blvck)
Money (ft. Bella Shmurda)
Dido Lobo (ft. Naira Marley & C Blvck)
Unreleased and Lesser-Known Tracks
Mohbad also had several lesser-known tracks and freestyles that never made it to his albums but were popular among his core fans:
Riot
Caution ft. Barry Jhay
Aje
Don’t Be Proud
These songs, alongside others, were part of his consistent effort to stay relevant in an industry that is always evolving. Even when not releasing major projects, Mohbad remained active through features and freestyles, cementing his legacy as a hard worker.
Mohbad’s Influence on Street-Hop and Afrobeats
Mohbad’s music transcended genres, seamlessly blending street-hop with Afrobeats and street lingo, making his music relatable to many Nigerians. His ability to capture the energy of the streets, while also delivering messages that resonated with everyday struggles, made him a household name.
Through tracks like KPK, Ponmo, Blessings, and more, Mohbad left an indelible mark on the industry. His sound was raw yet polished, rebellious yet introspective, and, most importantly, authentic to who he was. He used his music to tell stories—of hardship, success, and the search for peace. His legacy lives on through his songs, and they continue to inspire a new generation of artists.
Conclusion
Mohbad may have left us too soon, but his music will always serve as a reminder of his talent and contribution to Nigerian music. From his early singles to his final album, Blessed, Mohbad’s catalogue spans street anthems, introspective moments, and collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry. His legacy will continue to grow, as his songs remain in the hearts of fans who admire his hustle, talent, and authenticity.
Today marks a year since the passing of Nigerian singer and rapper Mohbad, a young star whose light was extinguished far too soon. Born Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba on June 8, 1996, in Lagos, Nigeria, Mohbad made an indelible mark on the Nigerian music industry with his unique style that blended Afropop, street-hop, and trap music. His songs, which reflected the hustle, struggle, and triumph of everyday life, resonated with millions of listeners. As we remember him today, we celebrate not just the music he left behind but the resilience and creativity that defined his career.
Early Life and Beginnings
Mohbad grew up in Lagos, a city known for producing many of Nigeria’s musical legends. His early life, like that of many Nigerian youth, was shaped by the vibrant culture and hustle of the streets. It was in this environment that Mohbad developed his musical talent, drawing inspiration from the struggles he witnessed and experienced firsthand.
His passion for music began at an early age, and he quickly gained recognition for his freestyle rap and captivating lyrics. As a rising artist, Mohbad’s early tracks showcased his unique style of blending indigenous Yoruba language with contemporary street slang, a fusion that caught the attention of music lovers across the country.
Rise to Fame
Mohbad’s breakthrough came when he was signed to Naira Marley’s Marlian Music in 2019. Under the label, he released several hit tracks, including the viral anthem “KPK (Ko Por Ke)” featuring Rexxie. The song, which translates to “It’s Plenty,” became a street anthem and one of the biggest Nigerian songs of 2020, earning Mohbad widespread recognition.
Mohbad followed up with other popular tracks like “Ponmo,” “Feel Good,” and “Marlians Anthem,” each reinforcing his place as a force to be reckoned with in the Afropop scene. His versatility as an artist was evident in his ability to fuse street-hop with melodic Afrobeats, making him a favorite among fans.
Throughout his career, Mohbad released a number of songs that captivated audiences and helped shape his legacy in the Nigerian music industry. Here is a list of some of his most notable tracks:
KPK (Ko Por Ke) ft. Rexxie
Ponmo ft. Naira Marley & Lil Kesh
Feel Good
Marlians Anthem
Komajensun ft. Naira Marley
Overhype
Father Abraham
Backside
Beast & Peace
Ronaldo
Once Debe ft. Davido
Peace
Ask About Me
Cinderella ft. Zinoleesky
Omokomo
Holy
Tiff
Pariwo
Blessing
Omo Mi
Account Balance
Sabi
These songs showcase Mohbad’s range, from party anthems to reflective tunes that touch on personal and societal struggles.
Controversies and Independence
Despite his success under Marlian Music, Mohbad’s time at the label wasn’t without challenges. In 2022, he made headlines when he publicly declared his departure from the label, citing personal and professional disputes. His exit was met with mixed reactions, but many fans rallied behind him as he sought to establish himself as an independent artist.
Mohbad continued to make music after his departure, proving that his talent transcended any affiliations. His final year saw him focus on crafting more personal and reflective music, delving deeper into his struggles and aspirations. While his life was tragically cut short, Mohbad’s journey as an independent artist symbolized his resilience and determination to stay true to his vision.
Tragic Passing and Legacy
On September 12, 2023, Mohbad’s sudden death at the age of 27 shocked the entire Nigerian music community. His passing was met with an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians, and industry insiders. The circumstances surrounding his death raised many questions, leading to public discussions and speculations about his life and career. His fans, fondly known as “Imole soldiers,” continue to honor his memory, keeping his music and message alive.
Despite the tragedy, Mohbad’s legacy lives on. His music continues to inspire millions, reminding us of the power of determination, resilience, and authenticity. His songs, such as “KPK” and “Feel Good,” remain evergreen hits, cherished by fans for their energy, optimism, and relatability.
Remembering Mohbad: One Year Later
One year after his passing, we reflect on Mohbad’s incredible journey. From the streets of Lagos to becoming one of Nigeria’s most promising young stars, his story is one of passion, perseverance, and talent. As we remember him today, we celebrate his contributions to the Nigerian music industry and the way he used his platform to give voice to the everyday struggles and triumphs of his generation.
Mohbad’s life, though short, was a testament to the resilience and creative spirit of Nigerian youth. His music will continue to inspire and his legacy will live on through the hearts of his fans. As we mark the one-year anniversary of his passing, we honor his memory by keeping his voice alive in our playlists and our hearts.
Rest in Power, Mohbad. Your light continues to shine.
This post serves as a tribute to Mohbad, reflecting on his life, music, and legacy. His contributions to the Nigerian music scene remain unforgettable.
Reading can be a transformative experience; some books leave a lasting impact that changes how we view the world. Here are five must-reads that offer powerful insights and lessons to help you navigate life, power dynamics, success, seduction, and street wisdom.
1. 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
Dubbed “The Satan Bible” by some, 48 Laws of Power is a masterclass in strategy, manipulation, and gaining influence. Forget what your religious book may have taught you about humility or turning the other cheek—this is about navigating the harsh realities of power dynamics. If you want to rise in any competitive environment, this is the guide to understand how power is acquired, maintained, and lost. Not everyone will agree with its ruthless approach, but its practical application is undeniable.
2. Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
Outliers dives deep into what sets successful people apart from the rest. Gladwell challenges the notion that talent alone breeds success, instead revealing the hidden factors—like timing, upbringing, and even luck—that play a pivotal role in one’s rise to the top. If you’re determined to make it big, this book will open your eyes to how success really works, but be warned: it’s not for everyone. Some people are born into the right circumstances, but the rest of us need to understand the art of playing the game strategically.
One of Robert Greene’s most fascinating books, The Art of Seduction takes seduction beyond the realm of romance. Seduction is a tool of influence, a way to subtly control situations, manipulate desires, and persuade others. This isn’t just for women—this is for everyone. Greene explains how powerful figures throughout history used the art of seduction to sway their enemies and allies. If you master these techniques, you’ll be able to command attention in any room and bend situations to your advantage.
4. The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
Written in the 16th century, The Prince is the original playbook for power and politics. If you can find the right translation, this book offers a brilliant, albeit cynical, guide on leadership and governance. Many believe that Greene drew some lessons from The Prince when writing 48 Laws of Power. Machiavelli teaches that sometimes, to maintain power and protect one’s interests, morality needs to take a back seat. It’s a guide for anyone aspiring to lead—or simply survive—in a cutthroat world.
Street OT isn’t a conventional book you’ll find in a bookstore or library, but it’s a philosophy ingrained in everyday life. It represents the unwritten rules of survival in environments where formal education and conventional wisdom won’t help. Either you have street smarts or you don’t—there’s no in-between. School won’t teach you how to handle street situations, negotiate tough environments, or navigate power plays in life’s rawest form. You either learn the hard way or pick it up from those who’ve mastered it.
Each of these books offers different insights, but together they form a complete toolkit for navigating the complexities of life. Whether it’s mastering power dynamics, understanding success, or learning the subtleties of seduction and survival, these are the books you need to read before your time runs out.
In a world where African music is continually evolving and gaining global recognition, Emmanuel Daraloye has emerged as a key figure in shaping the narrative around the continent’s rich musical landscape. As a distinguished Nigerian music critic, Daraloye has built a reputation for his insightful, balanced critiques that have made a lasting impact on the media and music industries in Nigeria. His journey from campus journalist to a leading voice in African music is a testament to his passion, dedication, and deep understanding of the art form.
The Genesis: Campus Journalism and Early Media Experience
Daraloye’s career in media began during his freshman year at Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo. Alongside a coursemate, he co-founded an online campus newspaper known as Arbico Parrot. This initiative quickly gained prominence as a platform for bold commentary on campus life, student affairs, and societal issues. Arbico Parrot not only became a strong voice within the college community but also served as the springboard for Daraloye’s future in the media industry. His experience as a co-founder of the paper equipped him with the skills to navigate the fast-paced world of journalism, where quick thinking and a clear, compelling voice are essential.
Between 2015 and 2019, Daraloye expanded his media experience by working as a newscaster, co-presenter, and on-air personality (OAP) at various radio stations in Ondo town. His stints at Arbico FM (ACE Campus), EKI 100.9 FM, and King Sunny Ade’s Music & Culture 106.5 FM allowed him to hone his broadcasting skills while also giving him a front-row seat to the local music scene. As he worked across different formats, Daraloye developed a strong connection with both listeners and artists, gaining a deeper understanding of the music that resonated with his audience. These early years were crucial in shaping his distinctive voice as a music critic, one that combines passion with an analytical approach.
A Breakthrough Moment: Establishing His Critique Voice
In 2022, Daraloye’s career reached new heights when he became the Senior Music Critic at Afrocritik, a platform that celebrates and critiques African music and culture. His appointment at Afrocritik marked a significant turning point in his career, allowing him to influence conversations on African music at a broader level. At Afrocritik, Daraloye’s role involves breaking down the intricacies of music trends, dissecting the cultural impact of African sounds, and offering his audience a deeper appreciation of the continent’s diverse musical offerings.
In the same year, Daraloye founded Afro Review, a newsletter dedicated to detailed and thoughtful music analysis. Afro Review has become a must-read for those interested in the deeper layers of African music. Whether it’s a comprehensive breakdown of an album’s thematic structure or an exploration of how traditional rhythms influence modern sounds, Daraloye’s writings have consistently provided readers with new ways to think about the music they love.
Expanding His Influence: Published Works and Interviews
Daraloye’s written work extends beyond his platforms at Afrocritik and Afro Review. Over the years, his critiques and reviews have been published in several respected outlets, including NotJustOK, TheCable, The Lagos Review, Vanguard Newspaper, The Guardian, Modern Ghana, Legit.ng, Nigerian Tribune, Leadership Newspaper, PM News, The Nation Newspaper, Sahara Reporter, The Sun Newspaper, and many others. His ability to write across various platforms speaks to his versatility and his knack for adapting his voice to suit different audiences.
Beyond his reviews, Daraloye has conducted interviews with notable artists such as Beautiful Nubia, Ajebutter 22, Kabex, Dresan, and Pheelz. His interviews are celebrated for their depth, as he asks questions that go beyond surface-level discussions, engaging artists in meaningful conversations about their craft, inspirations, and the industry at large. These interactions not only reflect his respect for the artists he interviews but also offer readers a more intimate look at the creative processes behind some of Nigeria’s most influential music.
A Library of Reviews: Close to 1,000 and Counting
One of the most impressive aspects of Daraloye’s career is the sheer volume of work he has produced. With close to one thousand album reviews scattered across the internet, Daraloye’s influence can be felt far and wide. His reviews range from in-depth analyses of well-established artists to critiques of up-and-coming talent. This extensive body of work demonstrates his commitment to the music industry and his determination to document, critique, and celebrate African music in all its forms.
His reviews are known for their balance, offering praise where it’s due while also pointing out areas where an artist or album could improve. This fairness has earned him the respect of both his peers and the artists he critiques. His approach encourages artists to push their boundaries while providing listeners with an informed guide to navigate the vast and complex world of African music.
A Sought-After Media Personality
In addition to his written work, Daraloye is frequently invited as a guest speaker to discuss music-related issues on both radio and television. He has shared his expertise on a wide range of radio stations, including Suncity 101.9 FM (Ondo town), Fresh FM (Ado Ekiti), Blast 98.3 FM (Ibadan), and Agidigbo FM (Ibadan), among many others. His appearances on television stations like OSRC (Akure), Kaftan TV (Ondo town), and Western Spring TV (Osogbo) further showcase his ability to engage audiences in thoughtful discussions about music.
During these appearances, Daraloye brings his unique perspectives to the table, often shedding light on underexplored aspects of African music. His discussions are characterized by a deep knowledge of music history and culture, as well as a forward-thinking approach to the future of the industry. Whether he’s talking about the role of traditional sounds in modern Afrobeats or the rise of alternative music in Nigeria, Daraloye’s insights are always thought-provoking and rooted in a deep understanding of the subject matter.
Shaping the Future of African Music Criticism
Emmanuel Daraloye’s contributions to African music criticism cannot be overstated. His work continues to influence how audiences consume and appreciate music, offering a bridge between artists and listeners through thoughtful, well-crafted critiques. His deep passion for African music, combined with his extensive media experience, makes him a sought-after critic, speaker, and influencer in the industry.
As the African music scene continues to grow on the global stage, Daraloye’s voice will undoubtedly remain an essential part of the conversation. His commitment to shining a light on the rich, diverse, and evolving landscape of African music ensures that his work will continue to inspire and inform for years to come.
In an industry where trends come and go, Emmanuel Daraloye stands as a consistent and reliable voice, providing audiences with the context, analysis, and appreciation they need to fully engage with African music. His contributions, from his early days as a campus journalist to his current role as a leading music critic, have made him an indispensable figure in Nigerian media, and his impact will be felt for generations.
