Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Iyabo Ojo has confirmed that she was recently invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with the spraying of money at her daughter’s wedding ceremony. In a statement shared with the press, the popular film star disclosed that the EFCC reached out to her following viral videos showing guests spraying Naira notes at the lavish celebration. She expressed surprise at the development, noting that she was unaware that spraying any currency at social events was considered a legal offence. “I was shocked when EFCC told me it is not legal to spray money at events,” she said. According to Ojo, her invitation was part of the agency's broader crackdown on currency abuse, a practice that has become widespread at Nigerian parties and ceremonies. The EFCC, which has in recent times intensified its campaign against the mishandling and defacement of the Naira, has emphasized that spraying or stepping on the Naira in public is in violation of Nigerian law. The actress, however, maintained that the action was unintentional and driven by long-standing cultural traditions rather than any intent to break the law. “We’ve been doing this at events for years without knowing the implications. This experience has been an eye-opener,” she added. Ojo also used the opportunity to advise her fans and fellow entertainers to be more mindful of how they handle money at public functions to avoid running afoul of the law. The EFCC has not yet issued a formal statement on her case, but sources within the commission suggest that more high-profile Nigerians may be invited in the coming weeks as part of its effort to enforce respect for the national currency. This development adds to a growing list of celebrities who have come under scrutiny over the public spraying of money, a cultural norm that is increasingly being challenged by legal authorities in Nigeria.

Nigerian comedian and actor Ayo Makun, widely known as AY, has spoken out about his recent invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of Naira abuse. In an Instagram post on Wednesday, AY revealed that he was summoned for questioning on Monday, May 5, concerning the public spraying of local and foreign currencies at a recent social event—an act deemed a violation of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s rules against currency mutilation. He wrote, “I am grateful to God for His mercy and guidance. On Monday, I was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies, an act that has been classified as an offense related to the abuse of the Naira. The comedian expressed appreciation to the EFCC and relevant authorities for their understanding and for granting him a pardon after it was confirmed that the money sprayed was not tied to any criminal or illicit activity. “I want to sincerely thank the EFCC and all authorities involved for their understanding and for granting me pardon based on confirmation that the money being sprayed is not linked to the proceeds of crime or any form of illicit funds. “This experience has been a valuable lesson, and I am personally committed to promoting awareness about the proper respect and care for our national currency. “To my friends, family, and the general public: We all know that spraying money at public events is a practice common in Nigerian celebrations, especially during weddings, funerals, and parties. It is generally considered a cultural tradition rather than a criminal act. But let me attach some slides to this post on the DOS AND DON’T. “It is important to understand that mutilating or abusing the Naira—whether by spraying, tearing, defacing, or mishandling—is not just a cultural practice but also a violation of Nigerian law. Such acts undermine the integrity of our national currency and can have serious legal consequences. “Let us all strive to uphold the dignity of our currency, which is a symbol of our nation’s sovereignty and economic stability. Respect for the Naira is respect for Nigeria’s future. “Together, we can promote responsible behaviour and foster a culture of patriotism and integrity.”

Popular media personality and author, Toke Makinwa, has once again stirred conversation on social media with a thought-provoking statement that’s raising eyebrows and prompting reflection on relationships, male psychology, and modern dating. The quote, which has quickly gone viral, reads: “If you ask a man to choose a woman out of 100 women, even if he picks the best, he will still feel the pain of losing the remaining 99. Why?” Though it remains unclear whether Makinwa made the statement in an interview, podcast, or social media post, the message has resonated widely, with thousands weighing in on the underlying meaning behind the rhetorical question. While some interpret it as a commentary on men’s fear of commitment or the illusion of endless options in the age of social media, others see it as a deeper critique of how modern relationships are shaped by choice overload and fear of missing out (FOMO). Relationship experts have noted that the sentiment touches on the paradox of choice — the psychological concept that having too many options can lead to dissatisfaction, even after making a seemingly good decision. Toke Makinwa, known for her bold takes on love, self-worth, and femininity, has long been a voice in conversations around relationships in African pop culture. Whether or not the quote was originally hers, it has sparked exactly the kind of discourse she often champions: open, uncomfortable, and unapologetically honest.

Reality TV star and new mom, Nengi Hampson, has spoken out about her ongoing postpartum journey following public criticism of her appearance at a recent social event. The former Big Brother Naija housemate, who gave birth two months ago via an emergency Cesarean section, took to Instagram to share a candid message about her struggles with body confidence and recovery. In her Instagram Story, Nengi revealed that she is still in the healing process and has not yet resumed gym workouts. “2 months post emergency C-section. Not cleared for the gym yet. Still healing, still learning to love this new body even though sometimes all I have is a tiny thread of confidence. And I’ll take every little moment that helps me feel like me again,” she wrote. Her comments come in the wake of mixed reactions to her choice of outfit at a recent public appearance. Nengi wore a black dress featuring a sheer bottom, which sparked backlash from some fans and social media users who deemed the look "too revealing" for a new mother. Despite the criticism, many others have rallied around the reality star, praising her for her honesty and vulnerability in addressing the realities of postpartum recovery. The 26-year-old media personality’s openness highlights the broader conversation about body image, societal expectations for new mothers, and the pressure women face in the spotlight.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of popular rights activist and social media influencer, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). In a statement posted on its X handle on Tuesday, the anti-graft agency said Otse was apprehended in response to petitions involving serious allegations of financial misconduct that demanded the Commission's attention. It said the activist had “refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication”. “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the exercise of its mandate of tackling economic and financial crimes, invited Martins Vincent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes raised against him. He refused to show up in spite of several invitations sent to him through his known addresses and medium of communication. The petitions pertain to grave allegations of financial malfeasance which cannot be ignored by the Commission,” it said in the statement titled, “EFCC’s Case against Martins Vincent Otse”. The EFCC, also said that as against the outcry over the arrest and detention of Otse, the agency had the right to hold him in custody. It, however, said the activist had been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions. “It is needful to admit that the Commission is aware of several unguarded attacks of the suspect against its operations. While such conduct is condemnable, his arrest was not informed by such attacks. The relevant law enforcement agency will be allowed to look into them. “The EFCC has a lawful right to hold Otse in custody like any other suspect being investigated by the Commission. The appropriate Remand Order was obtained in this regard. He has been offered an administrative bail and would be released after fulfilling all the bail conditions. It also stated that charges would be filed as soon as investigations were concluded. “The Commission appreciates the interest of Nigerians in its operations. The passion, enthusiasm, and torrential actions to all of its activities are welcome. However, insinuations about its motive in carrying out its assignment should no longer continue. “The EFCC should be allowed to do its job without fear or favour. As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed,” it added.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that popular social media activist Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), will be released upon fulfilling his bail conditions. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, while speaking to BBC News Pidgin on Monday, stated, “We will release him if he meets his bail conditions, and we will take the case to court as soon as possible.” According to him, VDM’s arrest followed multiple petitions submitted by various individuals, alleging misconduct. “We arrested him to respond to a series of allegations raised against him by some petitioners,” he said. VDM’s arrest by EFCC operatives in Abuja has sparked widespread backlash online, with many accusing the commission of targeting dissenting voices.

Award-winning Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has expressed that, while Nigerian men are confident and generous, they often lack true romantic depth. During a recent episode of Thoughts In A Culli, the Water and Garri hitmaker praised their charm and spending habits but emphasized that these qualities don’t equate to genuine romance. “Nigerian men do have swag but they are not really romantic when it comes down to it. They know how to swag and splash cash but I am not looking for that,” she said. Savage first rose to fame in 2010 with her breakout single Kele Kele Love and has since become a household name in the Nigerian and global music scene, winning several international awards. She married music executive Tunji ‘TeeBillz’ Balogun in 2013, and the couple welcomed a son, Jamal, in 2015. Their union, however, ended in divorce in 2018.

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested popular Lagos socialite, Emeka Okonkwo Daniel, also known as E-Money, over alleged Naira abuse. According to reports, he was apprehended on Monday night at his residence in the Omole area of Lagos. Sources within the commission revealed on Tuesday that E-Money was taken into custody for allegedly spraying U.S. dollars, a violation of the Foreign Exchange Act. One of the sources said, “On Monday night, we arrested E-Money for Naira abuse and defacing foreign currencies. Specifically, he was alleged to have sprayed U.S. dollars, which is against the Foreign Exchange Act. “He was arrested at his Omole, Lagos residence. Preliminary investigations are ongoing, and he will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.” Another source who confirmed his arrest to our correspondent stated that E-Money is currently being flown to Abuja for questioning. The source, who is not authorised to speak to the press, said, “Yes, he has been arrested and is being flown to Abuja as I speak, to face investigators on the issue.”

Popular Nollywood actress and producer Uche Jombo has shared a powerful message encouraging individuals to move forward from past relationships and embrace new beginnings. In a recent statement, Jombo compared clinging to an ex-partner who has moved on to trying to re-enroll in a primary school, a stage in life that has already been completed. "Life is about stages," Jombo emphasized. "You can't keep forcing yourself into places you've outgrown." She highlighted the emotional toll that harboring hatred can take, noting that it only "confuses a heart that should be busy loving again." The actress urged her followers to let go of resentment and pain, reminding them that new opportunities, relationships, and experiences await. "There's always another man, another woman, new people to meet, new experiences to live, a better story waiting for you," she said, encouraging individuals to open themselves up to the future rather than remain trapped in the past. Jombo concluded her message with a call to action: "Stop hating, start elevating. Life is too short to repeat classes you already passed! Grant yourself peace." Known for her candid and motivational messages, Uche Jombo continues to inspire her audience to prioritize personal growth, self-love, and emotional healing.

Pop and Afrobeat stars Davido, Tems, Rema, and Zerry DL lit up the stage at the 17th Headies Awards, held on Sunday in Lagos. The prestigious event, Nigeria’s biggest music awards show, made a triumphant return home after two years in Atlanta, USA. This edition marks the first of two Headies ceremonies slated for 2025, with the 18th set for December to make up for the missed event in 2024. The highly anticipated night honoured musical excellence across Nigeria and Africa in 31 categories. Rema secured the Afrobeats Album of the Year award for HEIS, while Tems won Best Recording of the Year for her heartfelt track Burning. Davido was named Digital Artiste of the Year, reaffirming his reign in the online music scene. Zerry DL, younger brother to breakout sensation Shallipopi, clinched Rookie of the Year, a major milestone in his burgeoning career. In one of the night's most competitive categories, Odumodublvck was crowned Next Rated Artist, edging out strong rivals including Shallipopi, Qing Madi, and Ayo Maff. The 17th Headies Awards, now back on Nigerian soil, featured a full roster of competitive and special categories like Artiste of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Recording of the Year. The event attracted notable figures from entertainment and politics, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who received a Special Recognition Award for his contributions to the creative industry. Other honourees included Alex Okosi and Amaju Pinnick. This year also introduced two new categories — “Soundtrack of the Year” and “Best Performer (Live)” — expanding the awards' scope. Filmmaker Funke Akindele’s record-smashing movie A Tribe Called Judah won the inaugural Soundtrack of the Year award. The event welcomed a host of celebrity guests, such as Tanzanian singer Juma Jux and his wife Priscilla, actress Nancy Isime, Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan (BamBam), Cubana Chief Priest, Big Brother Naija 2021 winner White Money, and many more. Notable personalities like Mavin Records boss Don Jazzy and Lagos State Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotoso were also in attendance. Under the theme "Back to Base" and "Apologetically African," the ceremony celebrated musical achievements from the eligibility window of April 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024. Full List of Winners: Rookie of the Year (WINNER: Zerry DL) – Taves – Kaestyle – Llona Best Recording of the Year (WINNER: “Burning” – Tems) – “Different Patterns” – Seyi Vibez – “Higher” – Burna Boy – “Last Heartbreak Song” – Ayra Starr and Giveon – “Billions” – Sarz and Lojay Best Vocal Performance (Male) (WINNER: “Billions” – Lojay) – “Moving” – Omah Lay – “Gratitude” – Anendlessocean – “For You” – Johnny Drille – “Ke Na Ke So” – Timi Dakolo Best Vocal Performance (Female) (WINNER: “I’m Done” – Liya) – “Last Heartbreak Song” – Ayra Starr – “Level” – Niniola – “Stranger” – Simi – “Tomorrow” – Yemi Alade Next Rated (WINNER: Odumodublvck) – Qing Madi – Shallipopi – Ayo Maff Song of the Year (WINNER: “Lonely at the Top” – Asake) – “Egwu” – Chike and Mohbad – “OZEBA” – Rema – “Showa” – Kizz Daniel – “Commas” – Ayra Starr Afrobeats Single of the Year (WINNER: “Big Baller” – Flavour) – “Big Big Things” – Young Jonn (feat. Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez) – “Twe Twe Remix” – Kizz Daniel – “Egwu” – Chike (feat. Mohbad) – “Remember” – Asake – “Ogechi Remix” – Hyce, Boypee, and Brown Joel (feat. Davido) Producer of the Year (WINNER: “OZEBA” – London) – “Happiness” – Sarz – “Basquiat” – Magicsticks – “HEHEHE” – Rema, Producer X, Cubeatz, Deatz and Klimperboy – “Different Patterns” – Dibs Afrobeats Album of the Year (WINNER: HEIS – Rema) – Stubborn – Victony – Work of Art – Asake – The Year I Turned 21 – Ayra Starr – Jiggy Forever – Young Jonn Music Video of the Year (WINNER: “EGWU” – Director Pink) – “Charm” – Rema (directed by Perliks and Folarin Oludare) – “Metaverse” – Jyde Ajala – “Like Ice Spice” – Perliks and Emeka Shine Shine – “Ojapiano” – Mattmax – “Showa” – TG Omori – “Na Money” – Dammy Twitch Soundtrack of the Year (WINNER: “Tribe Called Judah Soundtrack” – TCJ and Abbey Wonder (A Tribe Called Judah Soundtrack)) – “Eledumare” – Teledalase (Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre) – “Lose to Gain” – Kaline (Breath of Life) – “Kill Boro” – Native Filmworks and Wizard Chan (Kill Boro) – “Orisa” – Beriola (Orisa) – “Emotions” – Tiwa Savage and Asa (Water and Garri) Special Recognition Award Recipients – Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu – Alex Okosi – Amaju Pinnick Humanitarian Award Recipients – Temitola Adekunle Johnson – Michelle Mukoro (King Mitchy) Songwriter of the Year (WINNER: “Vision” – Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma (Qing Madi)) – “Stranger” – Simisola Kosoko (Simi) – “Can’t Breathe” – Michael Ajuma Attah (Llona) – “Family Meeting” – Emoseh Khamofu (Bloody Civilian) – “Stages of Life” – Fuayefika Maxwell (Wizard Chan) Headies’ Viewers’ Choice (WINNER: “Egwu” – Chike & Mohbad) – “Big Baller” – Flavour – “Big Big Things” – Young Jonn (feat. Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez) – “Ogechi Remix” – Hyce, Boypee, and Brown Joel (feat. Davido) – “Showa” – Kizz Daniel – “Different Pattern” – Seyi Vibez – “OZEBA” – Rema – “Love Me Jeje” – Tems – “Cast” – Shallipopi (feat. Odumodublvck) – “Dealer” – Ayo Maff (feat. Fireboy DML) Best Rap Single (WINNER: “Cast” – Shallipopi and Odumodublvck) – “Blood on the Dance Floor” – Bloody Civilian, Wale, and Odumodublvck – “Hallelujah” – Ladipoe, Rozzz, and Morello – “Canada” – Magnito – “Ije Nwoke” – Jeriq Best Street-Hop Artiste (WINNER: Mohbad – “Ask About Me”) – Zhus Jdo – “Johnbull” – Seyi Vibez – “Different Patterns” – Ayo Maff – “Dealer” (feat. Fireboy DML) – Shallipopi – “Cast” (feat. Odumodublvck) Digital Artiste of the Year (WINNER: Davido) – Ayra Starr – Rema – Shallipopi – Tems – Kizz Daniel – Asake Best Central African Artiste of the Year (WINNER: Innoss’B (DRC)) – Gaz Mawete (DRC) – Emma’A (Gabon) – Ebokolo (Gabon) – Singuila (Central African Republic) – Koceé (Cameroon) Best East African Artiste of the Year (WINNER: Juma Jux (Tanzania)) – Bien (Kenya) – Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania) – Bruce Melody (Rwanda) – Azawi (Uganda) Special Recognition – KCee