By Joy Salami
A popular Ebira singer Usman Usman Sheid, aka Sunshine, has celebrated the release of his 18th album titled Ozamare during a grand launch in Lokoja.
Sunshine’s career in music began in 2000, sparked by the political tensions between late A.T. Ahmed and Usman Bello, two leaders who, refusing to concede in a primary election, paved the way for the loss of an Ebira candidate to an Okun politician.
According to him, this event inspired him to use music as a medium to convey messages and uplift his community.
In his words “The easiest way to pass a message is through music,” Sunshine shared with the audience, reflecting on his journey.
Known affectionately as “Okeyiireyi 1 of Ebira Land,” by his fans, he further explained that his passion for music emerged from his desire to speak out on issues affecting his people, and he has since released an album every two years.
The event marked the fulfillment of a promise Sunshine made to himself and his community.
Sunshine’s career is intertwined with the political achievements of Ebira leaders. The musician released an album in honor of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, the first Ebira man to attain the role.
“When I was advocating for an Ebira governor, I made a promise that if it ever happened, I’d release an album to celebrate that milestone. And when it did, I was able to fulfill my promise,” he recounted with pride.
This latest album, Ozamare, also celebrates the current Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and is an offering of gratitude and hope for continued leadership from the Ebira community.
The album title, Ozamare, a term meaning “treasure,” holds a deep message about the responsibility of one’s blessings. “Not everything given to us is a blessing – it’s how we use it that makes it one. Someone may have wealth, but if it leads him into trouble, then it’s no longer a blessing,” Sunshine explained, expanding on the album’s theme, which contemplates life and death, and the legacy we leave behind.
The audience, comprising mainly of community members, fellow artists, and political figures, resonated with his message of accountability and purpose. Sunshine’s performance at the launch echoed his heartfelt sentiments, reinforcing the value of heritage and responsibility in Ebira culture.
The album Ozamare is available for fans and listeners, a reminder of Sunshine’s enduring commitment to his people and a celebration of their shared journey. As Sunshine’s music continues to bridge the past and the present, he remains a voice for Ebira, championing unity, resilience, and hope.
