Since Big Brother Naija Season 10 kicked off last month, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu has been doing something truly special that goes beyond just being a stylish host. Every launch night and live show, he steps on stage as the face of the show and also as a walking tribute to some of Nigeria’s greatest cultural legends. From old-school musicians to beloved actors and public figures, Ebuka has been recreating the iconic looks of these legends in a way that feels respectful and refreshing.
The man behind these bold and beautiful outfits is none other than Ohimai Atafo, professionally known as Mai Atafo, unarguably one of Nigeria’s most respected fashion designers, known for his attention to detail and powerful storytelling through clothes. Together, they are turning the Big Brother Naija live show into more than just a reality TV show. They’re using fashion as a way to remind us of who we are, where we’ve come from, and the people who shaped our music, movies, style, and spirit.
So far, Ebuka has paid tribute to the likes of Nkem Owoh, the legendary actor loved by many for his role as Osuofia, King Sunny Ade, the evergreen juju music maestro, and other legends.
Here’s a spotlight on every look Ebuka has reimagined so far, and the icons who inspired them.
1. The Osuofia Look – A Nod to Nkem Owoh’s Comic Brilliance
The first look in Ebuka’s tribute series was inspired by the legendary Nkem Owoh, the beloved actor and comedian best known for his iconic role as Osuofia. Drawing from the character’s over-the-top, theatrical style, Ebuka stepped out in a pair of wide-legged pink trousers, a white hat, and a denim jacket covered in crystal embellishments.
The outfit was bold, eccentric, and playful, much like Osuofia himself. But beyond the humour, there was a stylish balance, as the look felt fresh and modern, blending vintage elements. It was a fun reminder of how deeply Nkem Owoh’s character lives in the hearts of Nigerians as unforgettable and always entertaining.
2. The King Sunny Ade Look – Celebrating Royalty in Sound and Style
For his second look of the night, Ebuka channelled the timeless elegance of King Sunny Ade, the Grammy-nominated icon whose name is etched into the history of Jùjú music.
This tribute came to life through a bright pink lace agbada, paired with a matching fila and layered coral beads. It was a look full of colour, grace, and quiet confidence, just like KSA himself. The outfit nods to the music legend’s rich Yoruba heritage and captures the spirit of celebration that often surrounds his sound. Bold yet dignified, it was Ebuka’s way of showing that style, like music, can carry the weight of legacy while still feeling joyful and alive.
3. The Prince Nico Mbarga Look – A Tribute to a Timeless Classic
Night two opened with a nod to the late Prince Nico Mbarga, the Cameroonian-Nigerian highlife legend whose song Sweet Mother remains one of the most loved records in African music history.
But beyond the music, Prince Nico was also known for his bold, coordinated style, often matching outfits with his band members in a way that made their presence as striking as their sound. Ebuka honoured that flair with a newspaper-print suit, a direct reference to one of the musician’s most memorable looks. It was a playful, stylish tribute that captured both the charm and charisma of a man who gave us a song for generations, and always looked good doing it.
4. The Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh Look – Honouring a Man of Style and Power
This look paid homage to Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh, Nigeria’s first Minister of Finance and one of the most flamboyant public figures of his time. Known as much for his fashion sense as his political influence, Chief Okotie-Eboh left a lasting impression with his bold and elaborate style.
Ebuka recreated this energy with a long wrapper skirt that trailed behind him, paired with a crisp white tunic, coral beads, and a straw hat. The outfit was regal and dramatic.
5. The Oliver De Coque Look – A Stylish Salute to a Highlife Legend
This look was inspired by none other than the late Oliver De Coque, the legendary king of highlife and ogene music, whose voice and guitar strings carried the soul of Igbo tradition. With 93 albums to his name before his passing in 2008, Oliver De Coque remains one of Africa’s most prolific and beloved musicians.
Ebuka’s outfit for the night leaned into that same spirit of tradition and excellence. He wore a deep burgundy jacket, richly embroidered with golden geometric and circular motifs, a nod to the intricate beauty of African craftsmanship. Underneath was a matching top and slightly loose trousers, pulling the entire look together in a way that felt both regal and rooted.
To complete the tribute, Ebuka wore a red cap and coral beads, staples of Igbo cultural dress. And in place of the signature guitar that often hung from Oliver De Coque’s shoulders, Ebuka held a microphone and stand. It was a look full of respect, rhythm, and deep cultural pride.
