Nigerian singer Timaya, born Inetimi Alfred Odon, recently shared a poignant reflection on the Odi massacre and its profound influence on his music career during an interview. The video, captures Timaya discussing the tragic event that shaped his debut single, “Dem Mama,” and his role as a voice for his people.
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The Odi massacre, which occurred on November 20, 1999, in Odi, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, resulted in the deaths of over 900 civilians during a military operation. This event, part of the broader Niger Delta conflict over oil resources, deeply affected Timaya, who hails from Odi. His debut single, “Dem Mama,” released in 2005, was a direct response to the massacre, blending personal loss with a call for remembrance and justice.
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Timaya explains, “You started representing, you started telling Biosha stories. Yeah because it was part of me too.” He reveals a personal connection, “cause my mom had a bakery in this village Odi.” Timaya recounts the government’s response, “you know, when the government just said, go shoot this people down.”
He emphasizes the broader impact, “that was supplying the whole villages and all that.” Timaya states, “I became the voice.” He describes Odi’s importance, “Because it was the place that was attacked.” Timaya asserts, “that’s the mouthpiece of the people.” The interviewer asks, “Why was, why was ODI that important.” Timaya responds, “it’s very touching because we lost lives.”
He adds, “Lost a lot of things like a lot of things. A lot of history too.” Timaya reflects, “Yeah, a lot of history.” He mentions the government’s actions, “You know when the government just say go shoot these people down.” Timaya clarifies, “I don’t talk about the government though.” He explains his approach, “But you can talk about your peoples’ history.”
Timaya says, “Yeah. That’s what I sang about that’s the most I could do.” He continues, “If I sing about if they’re told about their story how to send military to go burn down the village.” Timaya shares, “because my mum had a bakery in the village Odi.” He reflects on the impact, “and it helped me to get an impact and became the voice.” Timaya concludes, “which gave me a great papa on Odi Biosha’s stage. That was mouthpiece of people.”
Read also: Timaya Shares Insight into Early Career Struggles and Success in Music Industry
Timaya’s reflection on the Odi massacre underscores the intersection of personal tragedy and artistic expression. His music, particularly “Dem Mama,” serves as a testament to the enduring impact of the event on his life and career, positioning him as a significant voice in Nigerian music and social commentary.
