Nigerian music legend Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Face or 2Baba, has responded to the growing public interest and online backlash following his high-profile separation from his wife of over a decade, actress Annie Macaulay-Idibia. In a recent interview, the iconic singer made it clear that he owes no one but his children an explanation regarding his marital decisions.
The award-winning artist, who officially announced his divorce from Annie on January 26, 2025, through an Instagram post, broke his silence during a candid appearance on the 234 Mzansi Podcast, hosted by popular Nigerian media personality Nedu.
“My kids are the only people I owe an explanation,” 2Face stated firmly during the interview, which has since gone viral across social media platforms.
“Other people can talk, they can judge, they can speculate. But I know what I had. I know what we both tried to do. That’s enough for me.”
The Fallout: Public Reaction and New Romance
The singer’s announcement of his separation from Annie earlier this year was already a trending topic across Nigeria’s social media landscape. However, things took a more dramatic turn just days later when 2Face began flaunting his new partner, Natasha Osawaru, an Edo State lawmaker.
Photos and videos of the singer with Natasha began circulating online, drawing widespread speculation about the timeline of the relationship and whether it overlapped with his marriage to Annie. Critics were quick to call out what they described as a “disrespectful transition,” while others defended his right to move on.
The controversy escalated further when fans noticed that Annie, who had often defended 2Face publicly despite multiple allegations of infidelity, remained noticeably silent on the matter.
“It Wasn’t Working Anymore” – 2Face Opens Up
During the podcast, 2Face reflected on the difficult decision to end the marriage, explaining that despite their efforts to save it, things had broken down beyond repair.
“She’s an amazing person. We had a good run. But it just wasn’t working anymore,” he said.
“We both gave it our best, and sometimes, your best still isn’t enough to fix what’s broken.”
2Face emphasized that both he and Annie were mature enough to recognize that holding on to a failing marriage would only lead to more emotional damage—both to themselves and their children.
“It’s always better to walk away in peace than to stay in something that’s not working. We did what we could. That’s the truth.”
A Love Story That Captivated Nigeria
2Face and Annie’s love story has long been admired—and criticized—by fans and the media alike. The couple met in the early 2000s, long before 2Face became one of Africa’s biggest music stars. Despite numerous challenges, including infidelity, public scrutiny, and blended family issues, they tied the knot in May 2012 in a high-profile wedding attended by some of Nigeria’s biggest stars.
Together, they have two daughters, Isabella and Olivia, and appeared to be one of Nigeria’s strongest celebrity couples—until cracks in the relationship began to show in recent years.
Annie had previously spoken out on several occasions about the difficulties she faced in the marriage, particularly around 2Face’s relationships with other women and his children from different mothers. These emotional outbursts became more public through their appearances on the Netflix reality show Young, Famous & African, where fans witnessed some of the tension between the pair.
Netizens React: “Why Publicize the Divorce Then?”
Despite 2Face’s insistence that he doesn’t owe anyone an explanation, many Nigerians on social media have pointed out that he made the breakup public himself by announcing it on Instagram—and then flaunting a new relationship.
@amaka_lives wrote:
“He says he doesn’t owe us, yet he put everything out in the open. You can’t feed the public with drama and then act shocked when they demand details.”
@realms_o tweeted:
“I understand his need for privacy now, but announcing the divorce and then parading your new woman was always going to bring heat.”
Others supported his view, stating that the decision to walk away was brave and that the public should respect boundaries.
@ms_obioma said:
“At least he’s not pretending. Let the man breathe. His life, his choices.”
A Shift in Perspective?
2Face’s recent statements mark a shift from his previous public demeanor. While once tight-lipped about his personal life, he now appears more willing to speak his truth—albeit selectively.
In a prior podcast appearance just weeks ago, the singer stirred more controversy by saying:
“A man is not built to be sexually with one woman.”
That statement drew heavy backlash, with many accusing him of normalizing infidelity. Combined with his divorce and new relationship, some critics believe the singer is trying to justify his actions post-marriage.
However, 2Face appears unfazed by the scrutiny, choosing instead to focus on his relationship with his children and his new journey.
“At the end of the day, the ones that matter are my kids. They’ll grow up and understand everything,” he said.
“I’ve made my peace. I just want to live a life that’s honest and true.”
What’s Next for Annie?
Meanwhile, Annie Idibia has maintained a dignified silence since the divorce was announced. Close sources suggest she’s focusing on her acting career and spending quality time with her daughters. She has also removed several photos of 2Face from her social media platforms, signaling a clean emotional break.
Fans of the actress have rallied around her, using hashtags like #JusticeForAnnie and #HealingForAnnie to express support and admiration for how she handled the years of public pressure and emotional turmoil.
Conclusion: Private Lives in the Public Eye
2Face’s latest interview serves as a reminder of how complicated celebrity relationships can be when lived under constant public scrutiny. While he insists that his children are the only ones who deserve answers, the reality of social media and fame makes keeping things private nearly impossible.
Still, the veteran singer appears resolute in his stance and eager to move forward with his life—on his own terms.
As fans continue to dissect his every word, one thing remains clear: 2Face’s personal choices will always be as closely watched as his music career.
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