Christogonus Ezebuiro Obinna (1947 – 2 June 1999), widely known as Dr. Sir Warrior, was a seminal figure in Nigerian highlife music. As the leader of the Oriental Brothers International Band, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Igbo highlife scene for several decades.
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Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in 1947 in Enyiogugu, Aboh Mbaise, in what was then Colonial Nigeria, Dr. Sir Warrior exhibited musical talent from a young age. He began playing the guitar at the age of 11 in the 1960s, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in music.
Formation of the Oriental Brothers International Band
In the 1970s, following the Nigerian-Biafran war, Dr. Sir Warrior co-founded the Oriental Brothers International Band alongside Godwin “Kabaka” Opara and Ferdinand “Dan Satch” Opara. The band became renowned for its unique blend of traditional Igbo rhythms and contemporary highlife sounds, captivating audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
Musical Achievements
Throughout his career, Dr. Sir Warrior was celebrated for his powerful vocals, energetic performances, and thought-provoking lyrics that often addressed social issues and cultural values. He recorded numerous hits, achieving 12 platinum and 10 gold records. His 1978 album, “Nwanne Awu Enyi,” was particularly successful, selling over 7.8 million copies.
Discography Highlights
Some of his notable works include:
- Nwanne Awu Enyi (1978)
- Jide Nkegi (1981)
- Chi Abu Otu (1982)
- Ndi Adudu (1986)
- Ndi Ji Ego (2011)
- My Success (2014)
- Hapum Mebiri (2014)
These albums feature tracks that have left a lasting impact on the highlife genre.
Personal Life
Dr. Sir Warrior, born Christogonus Ezebuiro Obinna, was married to Chiamaka Obinna. Together, they had five children: three sons and two daughters. Two of his sons are named Uche Obinna and Ajuzieogu ObinnaDr. He emphasized the importance of education to his children, advising them to prioritize their studies before considering a career in music. His first son reflected, “He did not allow us to get interested in music. He wanted us to finish our education first. He would always emphasize that education was the best legacy; other things could follow later.”
Death and Legacy
On 2 June 1999, Dr. Sir Warrior passed away after a brief illness, shortly after his last two performances. His death was a significant loss to the Nigerian music community. Fellow highlife musician Oliver De Coque paid tribute, stating, “He was a very good and amiable person. We have lost such a genius in highlife.”
Dr. Sir Warrior’s contributions to highlife music continue to influence and inspire musicians and fans alike, cementing his place as a legend in African music history.
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