NEWS

Story of Bode Thomas,the iconic Nigerian lawyer who ‘died barking like a dog after insulting a king’

Published

7 years ago

January 4, 2020

This was the case of Olabode Akanbi Thomas, popularly known as Chief Bode Thomas.

Thomas, born October 1919, died tragically on November 23, 1953, under curious circumstances aged just 34.
The day was also his daughter’s second birthday, thus, bringing joy and pain to the Bode household.

A day prior, on November 22, 1953, Bode, who had been made the chairman of the Oyo Divisional Council having taken over from Alaafin Adeyemi II, arrived at a meeting of the council with the Oba (king) in attendance as a member.

The report holds that all the other councillors, except Oba Adeyemi in his 60s, stood to welcome him. Thomas then impolitely told the king “why were you sitting when I walked in? Why can’t you show me respect?”

The Alaafin, feeling disrespected, asked Thomas “shey emi on gbo mo baun? emi ni ongbo bi aja mo baun” meaning “is it me you are barking at like that?’ is it me you are barking like a dog at like that? keep barking.”

Various accounts further hold that Thomas, upon reaching home after the meeting in Oyo, started barking through the night at his Yaba, Lagos home. He died the following day (November 23, 1953) despite being sent to Ijebu-Igbo for further treatment.

Thomas, being a chief himself, must have known the time-held Yoruba practice of respecting the elderly and traditional authority as he and Alaafin Aderemi II were Yorubas.

However, it appears the two not seeing eye to eye had to do with power-play regarding tax mobilization, political party support and rights of traditional authority.

Political leader Obafemi Awolowo had established the Action Group to wrestle power from the British with Thomas as deputy leader.The Alaafin, one of the few highly placed men of Yoruba extraction, rather threw his weight behind Nnamdi Azikiwe and the National Council of Nigerians and the Cameroons (NCNC).

There had been a test of powers of sorts with Alaafin on one hand and Awolowo and Thomas on the other. The rift led to banishing of the Oba’s son, the death of Thomas and the dethronement of the Alaafin by Awolowo.

Thomas was Nigeria’s first Minister of Transportation and later Minister of Works. He also served as both a colonial minister of the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria and a nobleman and privy counsellor of the historic Oyo clan of Yorubaland.

He was Balogun of Oyo – a royal name given to a village’s warhead although it can also mean one who can’t be defeated or conquered. He received the Balogun title in 1949.

Thomas was instrumental in the fight for self-rule against the British serving as a lawyer, politician, statesman and traditional aristocrat.He was born to Andrew Thomas, a wealthy trader and auctioneer who was originally from Oyo but migrated to Lagos. He studied law in London and was called to the bar in 1942.
He subsequently returned to Nigeria to establish the law firm “Thomas, Williams and Kayode” in 1948, together with Chief Frederick Rotimi Williams and Chief Remilekun Fani-Kayode.

Among his other feats, he became the legal adviser of Egbe Omo Oduduwa in 1946. He was one of the founding members of the Action Group. Prior to joining Action Group, he was a successful Lagos lawyer and was a member of the Nigerian Youth Movement.

With Thomas’ style, he was regarded as brilliant, logical, astute, thoughtful, forward-looking and a workaholic. On the downside, he was viewed as arrogant, hot-tempered and a bully.

Thomas married Lucretia Shobola Odunsi having children Eniola and Dapo together. He was chancellor of the African Church of Nigeria and became a member of Regional House of Assembly in 1951.

NEWS

SOUNDOUTTV in Collaboration with COBYL CITY – Unveils SOUNDOUT LIVE Edition 2 with Over ₦900,000+ in Career-Boosting Prizes for emerging artists.

Published

6 days ago

July 23, 2026

Baba Blow

Aspiring artists across Delta State have another opportunity to showcase their talent as SOUNDOUTTV officially unveils SOUNDOUT LIVE Edition 2, the second edition of its online music talent competition.

View this post on Instagram

With over ₦900,000+ in career-boosting prizes, industry exposure, and artist development opportunities up for grabs, this year’s edition is set to spotlight some of the state’s most promising emerging talents.

COBYL CITY joins this second edition as the official production partner behind the competition beat and select artist development rewards. The official competition beat, produced by Berry IV for COBYL CITY LTD, will be released on August 1, 2026, officially opening the competition.

Known for its growing commitment to talent development and creative excellence, COBYL CITY’s contribution extends beyond the competition itself, giving contestants access to professional production opportunities that reward not only performance but also artistic potential.

A Platform for Emerging Talent

Participants are invited to record either a freestyle or an original song using the official competition beat, giving artists a platform to showcase their creativity, originality, and performance skills before a wider audience.

Prize Packages

The SOUNDOUT LIVE Champion will receive an outstanding artist development package, including:
• Official Champion Award
• Professional Performance Session
• Artist Interview and Introduction Video
• Professional Photo Session
• Short Visualizer by P-YoungsMedia
• Exclusive Beat License by COBYL CITY LTD
• Professional Studio Recording Session by COBYL CITY
• Free 24-Hour Hotel Accommodation
• Customized Champion Merchandise
• Additional Gifts from Sponsors

The second-place winner will receive a professional performance package, customized merchandise, and an official Certificate of Achievement, while the third-place winner will receive a performance session and featured artist interview.

How to Participate

Eligible artists in Delta State can enter by:
• Downloading the official competition beat on August 1, 2026
• Recording a freestyle or original song
• Creating a performance video
• Posting the video on Instagram or TikTok, tagging @soundouttv
• Submitting the same entry through the official SOUNDOUT WhatsApp Group

Only one official entry is permitted per contestant.

Fair Competition. Real Opportunities.

Voting will be conducted exclusively through the official SOUNDOUT LIVE voting platform. Each supporter may cast up to 33 votes per contestant, while any attempt to manipulate votes or violate the competition rules will result in immediate disqualification.

More than just a competition, SOUNDOUT LIVE Edition 2 is designed to spotlight emerging talent and create genuine pathways into the music industry. As part of its collaboration, COBYL CITY powers the official competition beat, produced by Berry IV, and contributes exclusive production rewards for the competition’s eventual winner.

Important Dates
• Official Beat Release: August 1, 2026
• Submission Deadline: To Be Announced
• Public Voting: Opens After Submissions

With the official beat dropping on August 1, anticipation is building for another exciting edition of SOUNDOUT LIVE. Artists are encouraged to follow @soundouttv, prepare their entries, and seize the opportunity to gain valuable exposure, professional development, and industry recognition.

Let the Talent Shine. Let the Fans Decide.

ARTICLES

Exclusive Interview with BabaBellz on Enjoyment Night & New Singles

Published

1 week ago

July 22, 2026

Baba Blow

The Nigerian music scene continues to witness the rise of versatile and intentional artists, and one name that has consistently stayed true to his craft is BabaBellz. Known for his dynamic sound, deep lyrical expression, and ability to switch seamlessly between Afro vibes, hip-hop, and inspirational music, BabaBellz is steadily carving a unique identity in the industry.

From the journey of his project R2GTheAlbum (Road To Glory) to the release of his latest dual singles “Enjoy” and “Mama’s Prayer”, the talented artist has proven that he is not just about making music, but about delivering messages that connect with real-life experiences.
While “Mama’s Prayer” touches the heart with emotional depth and appreciation for motherly love, “Enjoy” brings a vibrant Afro sound that encourages fans to celebrate life, hustle hard, and live their dreams. This duality perfectly showcases BabaBellz’s creative range and his commitment to making meaningful music for different moods and audiences.

In this exclusive interview with Blow Naija Media, BabaBellz opens up about his musical journey, the inspiration behind his recent releases, and his highly anticipated event “Enjoyment Night with BabaBellz”, set to celebrate both his birthday and his growing fanbase.

He also shares insights into the challenges of the music industry, his motivation to keep pushing forward, and why consistency, faith, and purpose are key to success.

Read the full interview below as BabaBellz gives us a closer look into his world, his music, and what fans should expect next.

Enjoyment Night with BabaBellz

INTRODUCTION

Blow Naija Media:
Hello BabaBellz, how’s life? Family and music?

BabaBellz:
Hello… beautiful people. Life’s good, famz doing great and music (smiles)… we pushing it.

ON HIS MUSICAL JOURNEY & CONSISTENCY

Blow Naija Media:
We want to have a quick conversation with you about your music life. From the kickstart of R2GTheAlbum (Road To Glory) to your latest dual singles “Enjoy” and “Mama’s Prayer”, how have you been able to keep pushing and never relent on this musical energy and great vibes?

BabaBellz:
Firstly, I have to return all the glory back to the Almighty God for the knowledge, wisdom and understanding He gave me in this entertainment life.

I’m not gonna lie to you, it’s not easy… the time, the late-night meditations, the pen game, studio sessions, the ups and downs, even the way Nigerian and African music is evolving, it’s not an easy task. But like the wise ones always say: never give up.

I guess that’s one of the major reasons why I keep going and never look back. God has been faithful to me, I won’t lie about that. Glory be to God.

ON “MAMA’S PRAYER” & “ENJOY” INSPIRATION

Blow Naija Media:
Wow, that sounds amazing. Now let’s talk about your dual single before we move to your event “Enjoyment Night with BabaBellz.”

What inspired you to create two different genres? “Mama’s Prayer” is emotional and deeply touching, while “Enjoy” is a vibrant Afro sound. We’ve seen you do something similar during your “My Sound” era. So what inspired these two beautiful records?

BabaBellz:
Well… my major goal is to make people understand something about me after I dropped my last album MY SOUND. If you listen to that project very well, you’ll understand what I’m trying to point out, I can make different kinds of sounds.

I’m not saying I’m the best, but with the grace of God, I know I can make good music. Look at songs like Ghetto Breed, Spirit of a Hustler, IDGAF About You, those are international hip-hop standards that even people overseas play daily.

Now bring it down to songs like Kilofe, You, Bend Over, Sisi Caro, these are 100% Afro sounds, expressions of love, beautiful music that makes women feel special, club bangers, and vacation vibes.

Then you have Afro-Adura and inspirational songs like Blessings, Bless My Way, Hustle Mi, etc.

To cut it short, don’t be surprised by any kind of sound you hear from me. My sounds can be zig-zag, but the main thing is you’ll always understand what I’m saying and where I’m coming from.

I don’t just jump on the mic and say random things. My songs are a reflection of how I think and feel at that moment. But I’m also conscious that artists have a responsibility to the masses, so I watch what I say.

“Mama’s Prayer” is to appreciate all good mothers and remind everyone that a mother’s love is priceless and can never be replaced.

“Enjoy” is for people to dance, groove, and understand that enjoyment is part of life. Make money and enjoy life. Don’t just dance — chase your goals, achieve your dreams, and live good.

Because if I make my money, I will definitely enjoy my life.

ABOUT “ENJOYMENT NIGHT WITH BABABELLZ”

Blow Naija Media:
What is your event “Enjoyment Night” all about?

BabaBellz:
Well… as we all know, July 31st is my birthday. I haven’t always celebrated it the way many entertainers do, like hosting big events. I usually celebrate with close friends and family.

But this time, I chose to celebrate with people who truly cherish my music and my craft. Considering the current economic situation, I decided not to sell tables or create VIP sections. Everyone supporting the BellzExpressions brand is automatically a VVIP to me.

I just want people to come out, celebrate my music and birthday with me. It’s nothing too complicated, just a night of love, appreciation, and music… a night specially made for BabaBellz.

EXPECTATIONS FOR THE EVENT

Blow Naija Media:
Are we expecting any big artists at the event? And what more should fans look forward to?

BabaBellz:
Yes, of course. But like I said earlier, everyone supporting my brand is big to me. It’s not easy for someone to genuinely support you without incentives.

There will be a lot of big personalities, artists, CEOs, top entertainers, DJs, hypemen, MCs, and more. Everybody is welcome.

Just look good, come with positive vibes, buy your drinks, enjoy your chops, and have a great time.

SHOUTOUTS & APPRECIATION

Blow Naija Media:
Would you like to give a shoutout to anyone supporting you?

BabaBellz:
Yes ooo… big shoutout to everyone supporting me, those I know and those I don’t know. From day one supporters, real and fake friends (laughs), they are all part of the journey.

Shoutout to my dad, my mom, my woman, my siblings, DJs, hypemen, show promoters, my brother Blow Naija and his family, my producers and sound engineers, my Uniosun & BPA guys, IB city & Osogbo friends, and all Lagos Island and Mainland homies, maximum respect and love.

CLOSING

Blow Naija Media:
Thank you so much for your time, BabaBellz. Keep shining, keep moving, and never stop making good music for those of us who love great sounds.

BabaBellz:
Sure, all on God… BellzExpressionsMusic for life. Thank you for having me. Jah bless 🙏🤍

MUSIC

Meet Big Ken – The Afro beats Sensation Master Mind Behind the epic singles ( Coco baby, No Face , Cruise, Spiritual Frequencies & Alakija

Published

3 weeks ago

July 7, 2026

Baba Blow

Meet Big Ken – The Afro beats Sensation Master Mind Behind the epic singles ( Coco baby, No Face , Cruise, Spiritual Frequencies & Alakija

Nigerian Afrobeats singer and songwriter Big Ken whose known offstage as Kenneth Afure Okudi, releases hits debut singles “Coco Baby” “No Face” “Cruise” “Spiritual Frequencies” and Alakija” the fast rising afrobeats singer has being gaining attention. This release has proven his dominance and has amassed millions of streams across all platforms. He’s also focused on his next level of success.