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Lili Afe Calls Out Exorbitant $1,200 Aso Ebi Price, Sparking Online Debate
Nollywood actress Lili Afe has ignited a heated discussion on social media after expressing her shock over being asked to pay a staggering $1,200 for aso ebi at a friend’s wedding in Lagos. Her reaction has shed light on the rising costs of wedding traditions in Nigeria, drawing mixed reactions from the public. On March 26, 2025, Lili took to Instagram to share her disbelief, narrating how her excitement over receiving a wedding invitation quickly turned to frustration upon discovering the price of the aso ebi fabric. “Are we now selling aso ebi in dollars in Lagos? You people are pricing aso ebi for your own weddings in dollars now? This is getting out of hand!” she exclaimed in her video post. Detailing her experience, lili explained that she initially thought the amount was in Naira, only to realize it was priced in U.S. dollars. “I was happily congratulating my friend after receiving her wedding invite. I checked the date to be sure I could attend, then I saw 1,200. I assumed it was in Naira and even thought maybe she was being generous with a giveaway. Then I checked again and saw the dollar sign! I couldn’t believe it. I did the conversion—$1,200 multiplied by 1,600 Naira per dollar. How many millions is that? For your wedding? Is it my ‘I do’? Everyone needs to calm down; there is life after the wedding,” she lamented. Lili’s reaction quickly went viral, drawing a wave of responses from social media users. Some found humor in her frustration, while others raised concerns about the increasing financial burden on wedding guests. This incident has reignited the ongoing debate about the extravagant costs associated with Nigerian weddings. Originally intended as a cultural symbol of unity, the tradition of aso ebi has evolved into a financial obligation that some argue places unnecessary pressure on guests. The increasing trend of pricing aso ebi in dollars has further fueled concerns about affordability and the growing influence of luxury culture in Nigerian weddings. While some believe couples should be mindful of their guests' financial realities, others argue that purchasing aso ebi should remain a choice, not a requirement. Lili Afe’s outcry has amplified the conversation surrounding wedding expenses in Nigeria. As discussions continue, many hope for a more balanced approach one that celebrates love without imposing financial strain on attendees.
26/03/2025, 15:59:33
views 12040
2Baba Spotted Shopping with Natasha Osawaru Amid Family Concerns
Renowned Nigerian singer 2Baba, also called Innocent Idibia, has once again sparked public attention after being seen shopping at a boutique alongside Natasha Osawaru, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly. The sighting has fueled ongoing speculation about their relationship, especially amid concerns from the singer’s family regarding his well-being. A now-viral video, which surfaced on Tuesday, captured 2Baba and Osawaru visiting Vodi’s store, where they were warmly received by the prominent fashion designer and entrepreneur Oluwaseyi Adekunle, popularly known as Seyi Vodi. In the clip, Osawaru was heard saying, “Came shopping. Wearing this to parliament on Monday.” This is not the first time 2Baba has been seen in public with Osawaru. In February, the singer accompanied her to a hair store, a move that reportedly raised concerns within his family. At the time, his family allegedly filed a petition with the Department of State Services (DSS), claiming he had gone missing. Adding to the growing controversy, 2Baba’s mother, Rose Idibia, made a public plea to Osawaru, urging her to distance herself from the singer, especially since his divorce from his estranged wife, Annie Idibia, has not yet been finalized. “Good evening, Nigerians. My name is Mrs. Rose Idibia, and this message is for Ms. Natasha Osawaru of Edo State. I am calling on all mothers in Nigeria to help me plead with her to release my son (2Baba). “My son is going through a divorce, and he is clearly not in his right state of mind. I know my son, this is not him. Please, Natasha, remove the beads you put on his hand and neck and let him go,” she pleaded. The unfolding saga has ignited widespread debate, with fans and social media users split on the matter. While some have criticized Osawaru for allegedly influencing the singer, others argue that 2Baba is an adult capable of making his own decisions. The relationship between 2Baba and Osawaru remains a trending topic, as many speculate on the extent of their connection and its potential impact on the singer’s personal life. As events continue to unfold, the public eagerly awaits further developments in what has become one of the most talked-about celebrity affairs in Nigeria.
26/03/2025, 15:57:42
views 10038
Kunle Remi and Wife Tiwi Embrace Parenthood After Overcoming a Difficult Journey
Nollywood actor Kunle Remi and his wife, Tiwi, are overjoyed to announce the arrival of their first child, a baby boy named Eemi Oluwa. Their path to parenthood was anything but easy, marked by a distressing medical diagnosis, months of strict bed rest, and an emotional 80-day stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Kunle shared a heartfelt video featuring himself, Tiwi, and their newborn, reflecting on their struggles and expressing deep gratitude for their resilience and faith throughout the journey. “From an unexpected and unsettling medical discovery… to complete bed rest. From managing demanding work schedules… to traveling across cities and countries,” he wrote in an emotional post. He described how their experience was filled with uncertainty, long separations, and an unwavering trust in divine timing. “From being apart… to finally reuniting. From an early birth… to witnessing God’s perfect plan unfold. From waiting, countless NICU visits, and holding onto faith for 11 weeks and 3 days (that’s 80 days of hope and prayers). Our journey is a testament to God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. We have been blessed with a miracle. We have been blessed with EEMI OLUWA the BREATH OF GOD.” The couple hopes their story will serve as encouragement for others facing similar challenges. “This isn’t just a story, its our truth, raw and unfiltered. We share this to uplift someone out there who might need a reminder that faith and perseverance always prevail.” Kunle and Tiwi’s relationship has captivated fans since the beginning. In early 2024, the actor surprised Tiwi with a proposal during a trip to the United States. She was left speechless, only believing it was real when he finally placed the ring on her finger. The couple later sealed their union in a lavish wedding ceremony in January 2024, attended by an array of A-list celebrities, including Sharon Ooja, Ini Dima-Okojie, Deyemi Okanlawon, Omowunmi Dada, and Stan Nze. With the arrival of their son, Kunle and Tiwi embark on a new chapter, embracing the joys and responsibilities of parenthood. Their journey stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and the enduring power of love in the face of life’s toughest challenges.
26/03/2025, 15:55:23
views 7024
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 7032
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 9041
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
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