By Benjamin Njoku

Prophet Franklin, a seasoned gospel and reggae artiste, is advocating for improved welfare and support for Nigerian musicians.

With over 30 years of experience in the music industry, he emphasizes the need for government intervention and industry reform.

Born  Franklin Osifo Imonikhe, Prophet Franklin said “We want our country to show care and concern for our actors and musicians, just as they do for others. We need to address the issues with record labels, as the situation is not okay in Nigeria right now.”

Sharing the story of his musical journey, Prophet Franklin recalled that it started ,  after he completed her secondary education in 1992 and relocated  to Lagos.

Narrating , he said “Before I came to Lagos, I had heard about Fela Anikulapo Kuti and my state native, Majek Fashek. When I arrived in Lagos in 1992, after my cousin chased me out of the house in Iju, I went straight to look for Fela’s shrine in Ikeja. I didn’t work there, but I hung out on the street, watching musicians perform. It was there at the shrine that I met Majek Fashek and other prominent artists.”

“I play gospel music in reggae and traditional gospel styles. My challenges have increased, as the music industry has changed over time. There are no record labels now, and despite the significant effort I’ve put in, I haven’t been signed by any label. I am doing things on my own.”

“I have spent 30 years in music. I recorded my first album in 1994 with Pa James of the Papa Ajasco show, titled My Belief. Some of the tracks on that album include ‘I Have a Friend,’ ‘AIDS is Real,’ ‘Speak the Truth,’ and ‘Plan Early,’ among others.”

“My second album, released in 2023, is titled Powerful God. Some of the songs on it are ‘Greatest God,’ ‘No Other Name Like Jesus,’ ‘All is Well,’ ‘What the Lord Said,’ and ‘Jesus is Great,’ among others.”

“I have released two albums and currently have two single tracks: ‘I Thank God’ and ‘Jesus You Too Much.’ I have also shot over seven music videos,” he added.