You have been involved in the music industry for some time now and have released a couple of singles. However, it seems that your music is no longer being heard. How do you feel about this?
Music has always been a huge part of my life, and even though I’m not as active as I used to be, I have not left music behind. I am currently serving as the Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment to Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, which has taken up a lot of my time. It is difficult to focus on music while fulfilling my responsibilities in government, so it’s normal for my music career to be put on hold for a while.
You have been relatively quiet since taking up your position in government. Do you think this has affected your music career?
Combining my role in government with music has been a challenging task. Although I have continued to release music during my time in office, it’s not the same as being fully invested in my music career. Music and governance require a lot of energy and focus, and it’s difficult to divide my attention between the two. I understand that my fans miss my music, but I had to make a sacrifice for the good of my state.
Is your appointment a blessing or a curse to your music career?
I view my appointment as a blessing, even though it has affected my music career in some ways. Being a public servant and a musician require a lot of time and energy, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve my state. My manager, Dami Adenuga, and my label have been a great support system for me during this time, helping me to balance both responsibilities.
Could you tell us about the ‘Jumabee Inspires Concert’ and why it is so important to you?
The ‘Jumabee Inspires Concert’ is an event I started to celebrate my birthday by giving back to the less privileged in my community. Every year, we pick a project and complete it, such as giving scholarships to 60 students in my three senatorial districts. The concert is the last leg of the celebration, where we fill the stadium with people who are motivated and inspired by the music. It’s an event that means a lot to me, and I am always thrilled to see the impact it has on people.
You have been involved in politics for some time now. Is this something you hope to continue when Governor Bello’s tenure ends?
Politics has always been a part of my life, even though it’s not something I’m particularly fond of due to the tragic experience of losing my father to political violence. However, I believe in doing what I can for the people, and I am open to whatever opportunities come my way in the future. For now, I am fully committed to serving my state under Governor Yahaya Bello.
Could you tell us more about your father’s death and how it affected you and your family?
My father was a sitting Independent National Electoral Commission official in Kogi and was murdered a few months before the gubernatorial election. His death was a big shock and left a lasting impact on me and my family. It’s a traumatic experience that will stay with me forever.
What’s your relationship like with Governor Bello?
Governor Bello is a father figure to me. Despite the media’s negative portrayals of him, he has raised the bar in terms of governance in Kogi State. I am honored to serve under him and learn from his leadership.
