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Iyabo Ojo Offers Cash Reward for Mercy Aigbe’s Missing Phones at Movie Premiere
Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has pledged a cash reward for anyone who recovers the missing phones of her colleague, Mercy Aigbe. The devices reportedly went missing during the premiere of Iyabo Ojo’s latest film, Labake Olododo, at Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX in Lekki, Lagos, on Sunday, March 23. Scheduled for theatrical release on March 28, Labake Olododo is a historical drama that explores the life of a fearless female warrior as she navigates the complexities of power, love, loyalty, and leadership. A video obtained by Vanguard on Monday captured Iyabo Ojo appealing to attendees for the return of the missing phones, offering a financial incentive to encourage their recovery. “We are searching for them. Please, has anyone seen them? I am not accusing anyone of theft. But if anyone finds a phone that isn’t theirs, kindly return it, we will reward you,” she pleaded. “I will personally offer a cash reward. Two phones missing at the same time, please. Just find me, and I promise to compensate you.” A visibly distressed Mercy Aigbe was also seen questioning her assistant, who was reportedly responsible for safeguarding the phones before they disappeared. The premiere of Labake Olododo was a star-studded event, featuring a stellar cast that includes Odunlade Adekola, Cute Abiola, Saheed Balogun, Yinka Quadri, Olumide Oworu, Scarlet Gomez, Broda Shaggi, Wunmi Toriola, and Hafeez Oyetoro.
25/03/2025, 13:11:22
views 7033
Presidency Applauds Omoni Oboli’s ‘Love In Every Word’ for Its Remarkable Achievement
Nigerian actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli has received high praise from the Nigerian presidency for the remarkable success of her latest movie, Love In Every Word. Fegho Umunubo, the Special Assistant to the President (Office of the Vice President) on Digital and Creative Economy, lauded Oboli and the film’s lead actors, Uzor Arukwe and Bambam, for their outstanding contributions. In an Instagram post on Friday, Umunubo applauded their efforts and acknowledged the film’s growing impact. Since its release on YouTube two weeks ago, Love In Every Word has captivated audiences, amassing over 16 million views and sparking widespread discussions on social media. Viewers have widely embraced catchphrases from the film, such as “Odogwu paranran” and “Achalugo,” which have become popular in memes and online conversations. Despite an initial hurdle when the movie was briefly taken down due to a copyright claim, it was swiftly reinstated and continued to gain massive traction. Notably, Uzor Arukwe’s stellar performance has resonated with fans, further elevating the movie’s acclaim. In his statement, Umunubo described the film as a compelling masterpiece, celebrating its impressive milestone of surpassing 15 million views. He also predicted that its momentum would continue, anticipating that the movie would exceed 30 million views in the near future. This recognition from the presidency underscores the increasing influence of Nigeria’s creative industry, reaffirming Nollywood’s ability to produce content that resonates on both local and international platforms. As Love In Every Word continues to shatter viewership records, it stands as a testament to the power of Nigerian storytelling in shaping the global entertainment landscape.
25/03/2025, 13:05:46
views 7042
Nigerian Idol Introduces New Judge for Season 10
The highly anticipated 10th season of Nigerian Idol is set to premiere on April 20, with a new judge joining the panel. The announcement was made at a press conference ahead of the new season, which is themed, “Your Voice, Your Victory.” Joining the existing judges, Omawumi Megbele and Ric Hassani, is popular singer Iyanya. Meanwhile, seasoned media personality Ik Osakioduwa will return as the host, continuing his role in guiding contestants through the competition. Speaking about the show, Dr. Busola Tejumola, the Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, highlighted the significance of Nigerian Idol as more than just a competition. She stated, “Nigerian Idol is more than just a competition; it is a platform that transforms lives. Over the years, we have seen aspiring artists step onto that stage and emerge as stars. With the line-up of judges this season, fans can expect passion, commitment, and insightful feedback that will enrich the overall experience of the show.” Tope Oshunkeye, the Executive Head of Marketing, further emphasized the excitement surrounding this season, pointing out that additional elements have been incorporated to enhance the drama and entertainment factor. He added, “The icing on top is the new judge joining the show in the person of Iyanya. We are hoping that everyone chooses to rise to victory with a voice that would be worthy of the platform and people’s time.” With Nigerian Idol consistently serving as a launchpad for emerging talents, the introduction of Iyanya as a judge is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the competition. Fans eagerly await the new season, anticipating thrilling performances, intense competition, and moments that will shape the future of Nigeria’s music industry.
25/03/2025, 13:02:16
views 9042
Jide Kosoko Questions Nigeria’s Readiness for Democracy
Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has sparked controversy with his recent remarks on Nigeria’s political system, suggesting that democracy may not be the most suitable form of government for the country. During his appearance on The Honest Bunch Podcast, the seasoned actor criticized Nigeria's current democratic structure, asserting that it does not align with African traditions. Kosoko argued that the country continues to face persistent challenges because it is attempting to operate under a governance system that is fundamentally un-African. "The kind of government we have is un-African, and that's why we continue to have problems. We need to design our own type of governance; we are not ready for democracy. It’s like Fela said—this democracy is a ‘demonstration of crase.’ I am a Nigerian, and I’m entitled to my opinions, so leave every other thing," Kosoko stated. His comments have ignited widespread debate across social media, with many Nigerians expressing divergent views. While some sympathized with his perspective, arguing that the current system has failed to address the country’s core issues, others strongly criticized his stance. Critics, particularly those opposing the current administration, reminded the actor of his past political affiliations and support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Many accused him of hypocrisy, arguing that he had previously endorsed the very system he now condemns. Others suggested that his remarks reflected the frustrations of many Nigerians struggling with governance inefficiencies, economic instability, and political unrest. Jide Kosoko’s statements contribute to a larger discourse on governance in Nigeria. The country has faced multiple democratic challenges, including electoral controversies, corruption, and ineffective leadership. Some analysts argue that the nation needs structural reforms to establish a system better suited to its socio-political landscape, while others maintain that the democratic framework should be improved rather than discarded. As the debate continues, Kosoko’s remarks have added another layer to the national conversation about Nigeria’s political future. Whether his sentiments will inspire meaningful discussions on governance or remain a polarizing opinion remains to be seen.
25/03/2025, 12:58:47
views 8019
Reekado Banks Calls Out Hidden Forces Sabotaging Nigerian Music Industry
Nigerian singer and songwriter, Reekado Banks, has sparked conversations within the music industry and among fans with a recent post on X (formerly Twitter). The artist made bold claims about certain individuals within the Nigerian music industry who, according to him, deliberately stifle the growth of emerging talents. In his post, dated March 25, 2025, Reekado Banks suggested that these individuals either lack the necessary expertise to manage artists effectively or are intentionally obstructing their progress. He expressed his frustration with the actions of these industry players, whom he described as either "clueless" or "plain demonic." "One day, I’ll take an interview to talk about someone in the corners of the entertainment industry, who’s either absolutely CLUELESS or plain DEMONIC. Somehow, the brightest budding talents fall in their lap and either through cluelessness or pure demonic activities, they agree to policies that effectively slow these talents down and for some other talents, frustrate them out of pursuing their dreams. One day…," the singer wrote. Reekado Banks' statement has reignited discussions surrounding the challenges that many Nigerian artists face in the hands of record labels and music executives. Over the years, there have been multiple disputes between record labels and artists, with numerous reports of contractual disagreements, financial exploitation, and creative suppression. While fans are left speculating about whom Reekado Banks might be referring to in his post, it is unlikely that he is targeting his former record label, Mavin Records, given the amicable nature of his departure. In a previous interview with media personality Daddy Freeze, the "Ozumba Mbadiwe" hitmaker debunked assumptions that his exit from Mavin Records was contentious. He emphasized that he left on good terms with Don Jazzy, the label’s founder, after his contract expired. "That man took me from absolutely nothing. I wonder why anyone would think it wasn't amicable. The end of the contract came, I wanted to leave, and he (Don Jazzy) gave me his blessings," Reekado Banks stated. The Nigerian music industry has been plagued with numerous controversies involving artists and record labels. Several musicians have publicly accused their management teams of exploitative contracts, poor career decisions, and restrictive agreements that hinder their growth. Some artists have successfully fought for their independence, while others have faded into obscurity due to industry constraints. Reekado Banks’ recent outburst aligns with a growing concern about the need for transparency and ethical practices in the industry. Many industry observers believe that his statement sheds light on the deeper systemic issues that continue to affect Nigerian artists. As the speculation continues, fans and industry stakeholders will be keenly watching to see if Reekado Banks eventually follows through on his promise to expose those he believes are sabotaging artists’ careers. Whether this will lead to greater scrutiny and reforms within the Nigerian music industry remains to be seen.
25/03/2025, 12:55:31
views 7037
Yemi Alade Unveils Empowering Single ‘You Are’ for Upcoming Animated Series ‘Iyanu’
Global Afropop icon Yemi Alade has released her latest single, ‘You Are,’ a powerful anthem of strength, resilience, and cultural pride. The track, inspired by the highly anticipated superhero fantasy series ‘Iyanu,’ arrives alongside a visually striking lyric video produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, incorporating animation from the show. Renowned as “Mama Africa,” Alade infuses ‘You Are’ with her signature vibrant vocals and deep cultural influences, weaving a narrative of self-discovery and destiny. Speaking on the song’s significance, she shared, “Music has always been a powerful medium for storytelling, and ‘You Are’ embodies the strength and divine power within us all. It’s an anthem for anyone embracing their greatness. Bringing this to life for ‘Iyanu’—a series rooted in Nigerian mythology, is an honour. This is for every young dreamer who believes in their destiny.” Produced by Grammy-nominated artist Michael Hodges, the song was co-written by Hodges, Alade, Kayla Morrison, Gerald Trottman, and Ghian Wright. Hodges lauded Alade’s contribution, stating, “She is the perfect voice for this message. Her vocals bring a unique energy and emotional depth that truly define the song.” For ‘Iyanu’ creator, executive producer, and showrunner Roye Okupe, this collaboration is especially significant. “As a Nigerian storyteller, watching ‘Iyanu’ come to life has been a dream realized. Yemi Alade’s ‘You Are’ perfectly captures the essence of the show—strength, resilience, and the magic of our heritage. This song will inspire audiences just as much as Iyanu’s journey will,” Okupe expressed. With ‘You Are,’ Yemi Alade further cements her status as a global ambassador of African music, seamlessly blending artistry and storytelling to celebrate culture, empowerment, and identity.
24/03/2025, 16:42:32
views 10024
Tope Alabi Addresses Critics Over Her Fashion Choices
Renowned gospel singer Tope Alabi has responded to critics questioning her fashion choices, asserting that her decision to wear accessories and cover her hair is a personal one, not a directive from God. In a recent livestream session, the celebrated singer addressed the misconceptions surrounding her appearance, making it clear that every aspect of her style is intentional. She explained that while she has always had a deep love for fashion, financial constraints in the early years of her career limited her ability to fully express her taste. "I love beauty and fashion, but I didn't have the money for it back then. God has never told me not to wear earrings, necklaces, or wigs, never," she firmly stated. Tope Alabi further clarified that her decision to cover her hair while ministering was a personal conviction rather than a divine instruction. "The hair I cover in church was never under God's directive. It was my own decision. I told myself that whenever I am ministering, I would cover my hair unless I am unexpectedly called to sing while already wearing a wig." She also shed light on her minimalist approach to jewelry, emphasizing that her appearance often aligns with the themes of her music videos. "If you see me in a video without earrings, it's because I chose not to wear them. The theme of the song sometimes does not warrant earrings. I am a trained theater practitioner, so I know what look best suits each song." Reflecting on her early career, the gospel artist revealed that people often assumed she preferred small earrings, unaware that financial limitations played a role in her choices. "Back then, people thought I wore small earrings by choice. They didn’t realize it was because I couldn’t afford bigger ones. I also factored in the theme and setting of each music video. Do suffering people wear earrings?" Her remarks have sparked discussions about self-expression in gospel ministry, with many applauding her transparency and commitment to authenticity.
24/03/2025, 16:40:46
views 12027
Tems Stuns South African Fans with a Sold Out, Electrifying Performance
Nigerian music sensation Tems delivered a breathtaking performance in Johannesburg, leaving fans in awe during the South African leg of her 'Born In The Wild' world tour. The sold-out concert took place at The Dome, Nasrec, a state-of-the-art venue in Johannesburg with a seating capacity of 6,000. Tems enchanted the audience with a stellar lineup of her biggest hits, showcasing her signature sound and vocal prowess in a performance that will be remembered for years to come. Beyond the thrilling stage act, the Grammy-winning artist also took time to personally connect with fans during an exclusive meet-and-greet session, further intensifying the excitement surrounding the event. This Johannesburg show marked the first African stop on Tems' global tour after the cancellation of her scheduled performance in Kigali, Rwanda. On January 30, the singer took to her X account to announce the decision, citing geopolitical tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In her statement, Tems acknowledged that she had been unaware of the ongoing crisis at the time of planning and expressed sincere regret to anyone who may have perceived her initial decision as insensitive. She also extended her heartfelt thoughts to those affected by the conflict. The 'Born In The Wild' tour follows the release of her highly acclaimed debut album of the same name, which earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Global Album. The year 2025 has already been monumental for the 29-year-old superstar, as she recently won her second Grammy Award for Best African Song Performance at the 67th Grammy ceremony. Further cementing her global dominance, Tems recently took center stage at the prestigious O2 Arena during the unveiling of Aston Martin’s latest car for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Her participation in such a high-profile international event underscores her rising influence and status as one of Africa’s biggest music exports.
24/03/2025, 16:20:44
views 13027
Pastor Femi Lazarus Exposes High Fees Charged by Gospel Artists for Church Performances
In a recent sermon shared online, renowned Abuja-based pastor, Femi Lazarus, shed light on the exorbitant fees charged by gospel musicians to perform in churches. He revealed that some gospel artists demand as much as $10,000 for a single church performance, a practice he strongly condemned. Pastor Lazarus disclosed details from a contractual document, commonly known in the music industry as a "Rider." The document outlined the requirements of an unnamed gospel artist, who insisted on traveling with an entourage of 40 individuals, all of whom were to be fully accommodated and catered for by the church. Among the listed demands were a first-class seat for the artist, economy-class tickets for the entourage, and accommodations in a five-star hotel. The musician requested an executive suite for himself, while four of his primary assistants were to be lodged in another executive suite. The church was also required to provide three full meals per day, with a preference for local cuisine, for the entire crew. The most startling part of the document, according to Pastor Lazarus, was the financial demand. The artist’s honorarium was set at $10,000, with a non-refundable 50% deposit required upfront. The remaining balance was to be paid no later than two days before the scheduled performance. Pastor Lazarus has been vocal in his criticism of gospel musicians who charge fees for church performances, arguing that such practices commercialize what should be a divine calling. He emphasized that the gift of music is a blessing from God and should be used in service to Him rather than being treated as a business venture. His remarks have sparked widespread discussions about the ethics of gospel artists charging high fees for church performances, with many debating whether ministry should be monetized in such a manner.
24/03/2025, 16:19:05
views 12039
Ayo Adesanya Reveals How Domestic Violence Almost Turned Her Into an Alcoholic
Nollywood veteran actress Ayo Adesanya has bravely opened up about the harrowing decade she spent enduring domestic abuse at the hands of her ex-husband. In an emotional interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, the actress recounted her painful journey, revealing how the relentless abuse drove her into depression and led her to alcohol as a means of escape. For ten long years, Adesanya was trapped in a cycle of violence and emotional distress. While there were fleeting moments of laughter and happiness, they were overshadowed by the persistent physical and emotional abuse she suffered. “It was something I was involved in for ten good years. It was up and down. We had moments when we laughed, though, but it wasn’t all that. The beating was there, the domestic violence was there, it wasn’t going away. For ten good years, it wasn’t going anywhere,” she shared. Her candid revelation highlights the silent suffering many victims endure, often holding onto fleeting good moments in the hope that things will change. But for Adesanya, the violence was a constant presence, one that ultimately took a severe toll on her mental and emotional well-being. The prolonged abuse led the actress into a deep state of depression, though she did not recognize it at the time. Feeling isolated and overwhelmed, she found an escape in alcohol, gradually spiraling into alcoholism in a desperate attempt to numb the pain. “I was so depressed. I didn’t know it was depression; I started drinking. I would just sneak out, go and buy a bottle of brandy for real, for real go to a corner and drink. I just wanted to be numb. I would drink like a whole bottle. I was a drunk, forget it,” she confessed. For Adesanya, drinking was more than just a habit; it became a coping mechanism to dull the agony of her reality. She described how she would secretly purchase alcohol from a local chemist in Surulere, sneaking it home to consume in private. “There used to be a chemist where we stayed at Surulere. So I would just go and buy the bottle, hide it, bring it home, and drink. I became an alcoholic. It was just God. I became something else. I didn’t want to feel the pain from any beating from my ex,” she said. Adesanya’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite enduring years of suffering, she has emerged stronger, using her experience to raise awareness about domestic violence and the mental health struggles that often accompany it. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that victims of abuse are not alone and that there is always a path to healing and recovery. Today, the actress stands as a beacon of hope, urging others in similar situations to seek help and break free from the cycle of abuse. Her courage in speaking out sheds light on the silent battles many women face and emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and support for survivors of domestic violence. For those experiencing domestic abuse, Adesanya’s story is a call to action, an encouragement to seek help, speak out, and reclaim their lives. With support systems and resources available, no one has to endure such pain alone.
24/03/2025, 16:17:23
views 15030
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