Nigerian radio talk show host and broadcaster Ifedayo Olarinde, better known as ‘Daddy Freeze’, has responded to criticism over his choice of outfit at the Service of Songs held for late actor Alexx Ekubo.
The memorial event brought together family, friends and colleagues at the Monarch Event Centre in Lagos. Guests were asked to wear white. However, Daddy Freeze and his wife arrived in black, sparking reactions online and at the venue.
Addressing the criticism, Daddy Freeze apologised, saying the mistake was unintentional. He explained that he received an invitation with a QR code and did not notice the dress code stated on it.
He said the information was placed in a corner of the invitation and escaped his attention. He also noted that, in his culture, black is traditionally worn for funerals. According to him, he did not view the occasion as a celebration, given that Alexx Ekubo died at 40.
In his words:
“I don’t believe he died empty. I don’t see why they are rejoicing. It wasn’t a passing on to glory. My mum’s youngest child is a year older than Alexx.”
The incident drew mixed reactions online. Some social media users saw the funny side and joked about it. Others praised Daddy Freeze for explaining what happened and apologising for the error.
@celestine.okechukwu.9279 reacted:
“Burials or Deaths in Nigeria are always a celebration…. We need to rethink our philosophy about burials and the useless, wasteful culture.”
@itz_jenky commented:
“Na lie. Your partner did not see the dress code, too?”
@lewis_oll said:
“To be honest, I was also shocked to see them in White.”
@twinkles_ib shared:
“Oga, you claim you love Alex. Will he be happy seeing you set the camera to analyse how his service of songs was conducted?”
