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Tag: Entertainment news today

  • Court Evicts Comedian Ali Baba From Victoria Island Property

    Court Evicts Comedian Ali Baba From Victoria Island Property

    Veteran Nigerian comedian, Ali Baba, has been evicted from his Victoria Island property in Lagos, following a court order.

    The eviction, which also affected his company, XQZMOI TV, was carried out after a writ of possession signed by the Federal High Court on August 15, 2025.

    The property, originally sold to Ali Baba by the federal government through the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) for N220 million in 2021, became the subject of a prolonged legal battle.

    AMCON had claimed ownership of the building, insisting it was sold to recover debts allegedly owed by Harold Expansion Industries Nigeria Limited.

    However, in a ruling on July 31, 2025, Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa dismissed AMCON’s case, holding that the agency failed to provide evidence of the alleged debt. The court ordered the property’s return to its original owner and awarded N500 million in damages against AMCON.

    Reports indicate that Ali Baba’s liability arose from the timing of his purchase, as the comedian bought the property while the case was still pending in court despite an existing preservation order.

  • Nigerian Skit Maker Mr Sanku Dies in Car Crash

    Nigerian Skit Maker Mr Sanku Dies in Car Crash

    Nigerian skit maker and content creator, Raji Samad Adetola, popularly known as Mr Sanku Comedy, has died following a car accident in Ibadan.

    The crash occurred in the early hours of Monday along the Oyo–Ogbomoso road. Eyewitness reports and images shared online showed that the vehicle veered off the road and landed in a ditch.

    Sanku was traveling with a friend at the time of the accident. Both were rushed to a nearby hospital but were pronounced dead hours later.

    The comedian, who began his content creation career in 2021, gained a following for his distinctive storytelling style and humorous skits.

    Tributes poured in across social media after news of his death spread, with fans and fellow entertainers expressing shock and grief.

    Nollywood actress Funmi Awelewa, in a post on Instagram, said she initially received reports that Sanku was responding to treatment at Bowen Hospital. She added that despite her prayers and hopes for his recovery, he did not survive.

    Mr Sanku Comedy had built a loyal audience on social media, where his work was widely shared and celebrated. His passing adds to the growing list of young Nigerian entertainers lost to road accidents in recent years.

  • Comedian Questions Cubana Chief Priest’s US Visa Excuse

    Comedian Questions Cubana Chief Priest’s US Visa Excuse

     

    Nigerian comedian Klintoncod hasexpressed skepticism over Cubana Chief Priest’s explanation for missing Davido’s Miami wedding.

    The celebrity barman had claimed he was unable to attend the high-profile event because he was denied a US visa, expressing disappointment over missing the celebration.

    However, in a recent post on X, Klintoncod questioned this claim, pointing out that Israel DMW, Davido’s aide with limited English proficiency, was able to travel to Miami without issue.

    “You see that Chief Priest story of being denied a US visa, I also doubt that story sha. Israel wey no sabi speak English like that enter Miami, na Billionaire Chief Priest dem come deny visa but wife and kids get. Baba know why him no wan touch US soil sha,” he wrote.

    A social media user attempted to defend Cubana Chief Priest, noting that he had previously stated he was denied a US visa in the past when he was less famous and had used an agent for his application.

    Despite the defense, Klintoncod remained unconvinced, replying simply, “Dead talk still!!” to reaffirm his doubt.

    The exchange has sparked online debate over the validity of Cubana Chief Priest’s visa claims and his absence from the wedding.

  • Nicki Minaj Congratulates Davido and Chioma on Miami Wedding

    Nicki Minaj Congratulates Davido and Chioma on Miami Wedding

    International rapper Nicki Minaj has congratulated Nigerian singer Davido and his wife Chioma on their Miami white wedding.

    The rapper responded to one of Davido’s posts on X, where he shared his excitement over the ceremony. Davido described the celebration as “amazing” and “perfect,” adding that he and his wife were still basking in the joy of the day.

    “We had an amazing wedding, perfect in fact! Me and my wife body still dey sweet us like this. Nothing una git do, say, or make up will ever change the fact that we had a fairytale wedding! And one of the best days of not the best day of our lives! The whole world celebrated us!” he wrote.

    In reply, Nicki Minaj commented, “Congratulations to you both,” signaling mutual respect and admiration between the artists.

    Their positive relationship was further highlighted by their musical collaboration, with Nicki praising Davido as an “incredible writer & melody maker.”

    She also noted that she invited him to feature on her song to enhance its Afrobeat rhythm, showcasing the synergy between the two performers.

    The gesture underscores the continuing professional and personal rapport between the international star and the Nigerian singer.

  • Kate Henshaw Demands Justice for Phyna’s Injured Sister

    Kate Henshaw Demands Justice for Phyna’s Injured Sister

    Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw has called for justice following a road accident that critically injured the younger sister of reality TV star Phyna in Auchi, Edo State.

    The victim, who had graduated just six days before the incident, underwent an amputation of one leg and is at risk of losing the other.

    Henshaw alleged that the accident involved a Dangote Group truck. She said the driver initially fled the scene but was later apprehended after an eyewitness, identified as a lecturer, chased him down.

    According to the actress, the truck’s license plate was removed, and the vehicle is now in police custody. Henshaw urged the Nigerian Police Force to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

    “She is the junior sister to @unusualphyna. Whoever owns the truck should own up. Calling on @PoliceNG @BenHundeyin to make sure justice is served,” she tweeted.

    Phyna, a former BBNaija star, had earlier appealed to businessman Aliko Dangote on social media, accusing his company of involvement in the accident and attempting to shield those responsible.

    Social media activist VeryDarkMan also shared footage of the victim in critical condition, joining calls for accountability and justice.

    The incident has sparked widespread public outrage, with many calling for a thorough investigation to ensure transparency and accountability.

  • Oxlade Credits Fireboy DML for Shaping His Music Career

    Oxlade Credits Fireboy DML for Shaping His Music Career

    Nigerian Afrobeats singer Oxlade has credited fellow artist Fireboy DML with teaching him how to properly compose music.

    The Kulosa hitmaker said Fireboy’s guidance early in his career played a transformative role in his growth as a musician.

    Speaking during a recent livestream with popular content creator Shank Comics, Oxlade described Fireboy’s songwriting ability as unmatched in the Nigerian music industry.

    “When it comes to pen game, nobody is touching him,” Oxlade said. “I learnt how to properly compose music from Fireboy. He was miles ahead.”

    He added that Fireboy’s influence helped him transition into making “proper music” before he developed his own style.

    “He was part of my transition into making proper music before I started doing my own thing. Him putting me on was life-changing,” Oxlade said.

    Fireboy DML, known for hits such as Jealous and Peru, has built a reputation for his lyrical depth and artistry since breaking out in 2019. Oxlade, who gained international recognition with Kulosa, continues to be one of Afrobeats’ rising stars.

  • Seyi Sodimu Hails Wande Coal as Afrobeats’ Most Talented Star

    Seyi Sodimu Hails Wande Coal as Afrobeats’ Most Talented Star

    Veteran Nigerian singer and rapper, Seyi Sodimu, has described Wande Coal as the most talented artist in the Afrobeats genre.

    Speaking in a recent interview with comedian Teju Babyface, Sodimu credited Wande Coal with playing a key role in shaping the modern Afrobeats sound and inspiring some of the industry’s biggest stars.

    “Wande Coal was one of the pivotal moments where he switched it [Afrobeats] to the new generation,” Sodimu said. “He influenced people like Wizkid, Davido, and Sean Tizzle. It was Wande Coal’s style that took Afrobeats to the new sound. I think he is the most talented Nigerian Afrobeats artist.”

    When asked if Wande Coal was receiving the recognition he deserved, Sodimu said the answer depended on perspective.

    “What do you mean by flowers, are you talking about streams?” he responded. “People love Wande Coal when they hear his music. Any artist you ask — even Burna Boy — can attest to Wande Coal’s artistry.”

    Sodimu, who is older than Wande Coal, added that the singer has yet to reach his full creative potential.

    “He’s actually operating on 30% and is still excelling,” he said. “Imagine if he was operating at 78%. Wande is a genius. He can sing, he also writes. He is amazing.”

    Wande Coal, born Olawale Ojosipe, rose to prominence in the late 2000s under the Mo’Hits Records label. Known for hits such as Bumper to Bumper and Iskaba, he has remained an influential figure in Nigerian music, with a career spanning more than a decade.

    Afrobeats has since become a global music force, with artists like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy achieving international acclaim — a wave Sodimu believes Wande Coal helped set in motion.

  • Funke Akindele Reflects on Humble Beginnings, Journey to Stardom

    Funke Akindele Reflects on Humble Beginnings, Journey to Stardom

    Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has taken a moment to reflect on her journey in the entertainment industry, sharing a nostalgic post about her early days and the lessons that shaped her success.

    In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Akindele recalled a period in her life when she had no spotlight but was driven by dreams and an unwavering passion for acting. The post was accompanied by a series of throwback photos that symbolized her humble beginnings.

    “One year, no spotlight. The dreams were loud. The tools? Not much. But the passion showed up – every single day,” she wrote.

    Akindele described the period as a significant learning phase where she discovered more about people, purpose, and process. She said what initially began as raw potential gradually evolved into a meaningful journey fueled by time, growth, and grace.

    “It wasn’t just about playing a role. It was a season of deep learning – about people, purpose, and process,” she wrote. “Each frame carried quiet prayers. Each moment was a seed. This is only the beginning.”

    The award-winning filmmaker noted that every step along the way contributed to her transformation, with early experiences laying the groundwork for what has become a purposeful and impactful career.

    Her post resonated with fans and colleagues alike, many of whom praised her for her humility and consistency in the industry.

    Akindele’s reflection comes amid a successful career that includes blockbuster films, hit TV shows, and a strong reputation as one of Nollywood’s most accomplished figures.

  • Debbie Shokoya Praises Parents for Life Lessons and Strong Values

    Debbie Shokoya Praises Parents for Life Lessons and Strong Values

    Nollywood actress and producer Debbie Shokoya has paid a heartfelt tribute to her parents, crediting them for laying the solid foundation that continues to guide her through life.

    In a reflective Instagram post, the mother of one expressed deep appreciation for the values and life lessons her parents instilled in her. She noted that their teachings shaped her character, helped her navigate challenges with confidence, and taught her to live with purpose.

    “My parents walked so I could run,” Debbie wrote. “They taught, instilled, and gave me so many things that money can’t buy—contentment, sincerity, holding on to God, hard work, staying focused on goals, and more.”

    Shokoya described contentment as a powerful gift, stating that it has helped her remain grounded and unbothered by competition. According to her, the ability to be content makes a person “wealthier than a rich man.”

    Looking back on her journey, Debbie said her success came from building everything from the ground up. Despite moments when things seemed to fall apart, she relied on the strong foundation her parents provided to stay resilient.

    “My parents built me to this point where I feel unshaken. I just stay focused,” she said. “I move like I am perfect and not triggered about competition.”

    Debbie also expressed hopes of passing those same values to her children. “I pray that someday, my children will brag about how I trained them and positively impacted their lives,” she wrote. “I pray that my home will forever be a safe place and that I will always be the real me.”

    The actress’s message resonated with fans, many of whom praised her for her humility and grounded perspective in an industry often driven by fame and pressure.

  • Bolanle Ninolowo: I’m Not Just an Actor, I’m a Brand

    Bolanle Ninolowo: I’m Not Just an Actor, I’m a Brand

    Popular Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninolowo has described himself as more than just a film star, calling attention to his carefully curated identity as a business-minded entertainer and strategic brand.

    In an interview with The Nation, the actor—widely known by his nickname “Makanaki”—said his rise in Nollywood was not accidental but the result of grace, deliberate effort, and positioning.

    “Yes, first is grace, and then two is positioning,” Ninolowo stated. “My brand is very important to me. I’m not just an actor, I’m a business actor.”

    With a career spanning over a decade, Ninolowo has established a strong presence in the Nigerian film industry. He noted that while acting talent is important, what sets him apart is his understanding of branding and identity beyond the screen.

    “Maybe you can tell me how many actors in the last decade the industry has been able to brand in a way that people call them by a name outside of their acting name,” he said. “So, when you say Maka, see how everybody reacts? That is the brand.”

    Responding to questions about his recent low profile in films, the actor dismissed the idea that constant appearances are necessary to stay relevant.

    “How many more films do I have to act in for you to know who I am?” he asked, pointing out that fame is temporary, but a solid brand has lasting value.

    “Film comes out and it goes. So build a brand. I tell people to pursue building a brand. Do something that gives you a name you can leverage. Think about your positioning. It’s very, very key. It’s not just acting,” he concluded.

    Ninolowo’s comments underline his belief in long-term strategy over short-term fame, offering insight into how modern entertainers can remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.