With heavy hearts, Ruggedman, Lara George bid OJB farewell

To honour and celebrate the life of veteran Nigerian producer, OJB Jezreel, a wake keep and service of songs was held on Thursday, July 7, at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

The singer/producer died on Tuesday, June 14, after suffering complications from his kidney ailment.

OJB has for the past few years, fought valiantly to stay alive in spite of a bad kidney.

In 2013, the artiste, real names, Babatunde Okungbowa, was flown to India for a transplant after one of his wives agreed to be a donor.

The transplant, initially successful, bought him a few more years on earth, but it would however, fail a week before his death.

Comedian Okey Bakassi played host to the somber gathering at O’jez event center.

After a few words, the comic invited gospel artiste, Sammie Okposo to lead in a praise and worship session that elicited tears and solemn expressions.

The event had in attendance, a cross section of OJB’s family, friends and colleagues – as Okposo, Lara George, OJB’s son, daughter and one of his wives – all rendered heart wrenching performances.

While a chunk of the popular faces in Nigerian entertainment were absent, old collaborators and colleagues of the late OJB were in attendance.

Some of which include: Ruggedman, Jazzman Olofin, African China, Yvonne Jegede, Mr Kool, Azadus, Dj Boombastic, Grace Amah, Dj Gosporella, K- Solo, Essence, Rasqie, DJ Humility and KSB.

OJB, producer of 2face Idibia’s African Queen, died while preparing for his 50th birthday which would have held on Monday, July 4.

He will be laid to rest on Friday July 8; a Laying in State will be held at his residence – 4, Gbaja str, Surulere, Lagos.

The following day, a burial service will be held at Redeemed Christian Church of God, Grace Chapel, 129, Ogunlana Drive Surulere while his final resting place will be the Ikoyi Cemetery.