In a refreshing twist of generational talent and innovation, the iconic legacy of Nigerian music legend, Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, is being rebirthed through the vibrant sounds and creative energy of his grandsons—Olaniran Obey Fabiyi, popularly known as Niran Boy, and his older brother, Olaluwa Obey Fabiyi, aka Royse LK.
These dynamic young men, proudly known as The Miliki Boys, are set to revolutionize the Nigerian music scene with a bold new sound they’ve coined the Miliki System—a soulful blend of their grandfather’s signature Miliki highlife and contemporary Afrobeats. The genre not only pays homage to their roots but also redefines it for a younger, global audience.
“It’s in the blood,” Niran Boy says with a confident smile. “My dad, Tolu Obey, is also a brilliant musician. I’ve always looked up to him. People always call me ‘Omo Tolu’ and I’m proud of that. From the way I dress to the way I carry myself—looking like my dad is my way of honoring him.”
Niran, a music producer and singer, may not have released his singles yet, but the studio is already bubbling with unreleased tracks that promise to light up the airwaves soon. “I’ve recorded a lot, but I’m waiting for the right time. It’s going to be a surprise to the world,” he teases.
Joining him in this creative journey is his brother, Royse LK, who is just as passionate and deeply rooted in the family’s musical heritage. “Miliki System is something we carved out of what Grandpa makes,” Royse explains. “We kept the instruments, the guitar vibes, but we made it Gen Z. It’s a groove that both the old and young can enjoy.”
Royse, who has been involved in music for over four years, attributes his artistry to the countless hours spent observing their grandfather’s recording sessions. “I learned charisma, stage presence, and so much more just watching him. It made me want to carry on the legacy in my own way.”
Together, the brothers are poised to take the industry by storm with their upcoming release—a collaborative track featuring their legendary grandfather. Set to drop either at the end of this month or early next, the song is expected to be a vibrant introduction to the Miliki System and the new era of Obey music.
But it doesn’t stop with Niran and Royse LK. The Obey lineage is rich with talent, with cousin Tims Obey also making waves in music. “It’s one big family,” Niran says. “We’re all pushing our things together.”
Beyond music, the brothers have solid educational backgrounds. Having attended both federal and private institutions, they bring discipline and structure to their craft. “Boarding school taught me real-life lessons—how to hustle, how to be independent. My mum is a believer in tough love, and I’m grateful for it,” Niran reflects.
As they prepare to launch fully into the industry, The Miliki Boys are not just preserving a legacy—they are evolving it. With a full body of work featuring dancehall vibes, slow jams, and everything in between, the world should brace itself for a fresh yet familiar sound that bridges generations.
Their passion, vision, and commitment to music came to light during a chat with City People’s Jamiu Abubakar, at their grandfather’s 83rd birthday Thanksgiving service held in Lagos. In that exclusive conversation, they shared their dreams, inspirations, and plans to carve a niche with a sound that carries the Obey identity into the future.
From their harmonies to their heritage, it’s clear: the Obey bloodline still sings, and the world is about to hear it loud and clear.
