The Nation Newspaper

Author: Yewande Fasan

  • Onyeka Onwenu’s sons break silence over mother’s death

    Onyeka Onwenu’s sons break silence over mother’s death

    The sons of the legendary singer Onyeka Onwenu, Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende, have released a statement following the death of their mother on Tuesday, July 30.

    They announced that she passed away after being rushed to the hospital following a performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life.

    The sons described Onwenu as a “national treasure, icon, and legend” who inspired multiple generations with her music, acting, philanthropy, and humanitarian efforts.

    They expressed gratitude to those who were with her in her final moments, including Peter Obi, Governor Alex Otti, and the staff of Reddington Hospital.

    According to them, the family has requested time to make necessary plans and asked the public to remember Onwenu’s life, contributions, and impact on many lives, adding that her legacy will undoubtedly be celebrated and honoured in the days to come.

    They said: “It is with heavy hearts that I and my brother wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much-loved Onyeka Onwenu. She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Lagos Nigeria.

    “She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed.

    “Onyeka Onwenu was a national treasure, an icon, and a legend, who inspired multiple generations of Nigerians and people around the world with her music, acting, philanthropy, and humanitarian efforts.

    She is greatly loved and missed.

    Read Also: How I want to be buried – Onyeka Onwenu

    “We would like to extend our thanks to those who were with her in her final moments. And to the general public for their concern and support.

    “Specifically, we are deeply grateful to Mr. Peter Obi, Mr. and Mrs. John Momoh, and Mr. and Mrs. Okonkwo as well as Messrs Ajayi and Mr. Okpara all of whom were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined to condole us soon after her passage.

    “We are also appreciative of Reddington Hospital and all their staff for their efforts. As we take the time to make the necessary plans, we would like you all to take the time to remember her life, the contributions she made, and the impact she made on so many lives, including ours.”

  • I walked for other strippers to fly, says ChiChi

    I walked for other strippers to fly, says ChiChi

    Reality TV star, Chichi, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to her social media followers for their unwavering support over the past two years.

    Despite being a controversial figure on Big Brother Naija season 7, Chichi has consistently provided entertaining content and inspired others, particularly pole dancers.

    In a touching message, Chichi acknowledged her fans’ continuous support, saying it has meant the world to her.

    She highlighted how their enthusiasm, encouragement, and dedication have helped her navigate ups and downs and reach new heights.

    Chichi also emphasised her role as a source of inspiration for girls with challenging pasts.

    Read Also: Chichi retires from exotic dancing

    She stated: “I walked so that other strip*ers can fly. Inspiring every girl from a difficult past to see a future full of promise. To my incredible Champs, Today marks a special milestone – two years of unwavering support, love, and loyalty. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude as I reflect on the journey we’ve shared so far.

    “Your enthusiasm, encouragement, and dedication have meant the world to me. Through every up and down, you’ve stood by me, cheering me on and pushing me to reach new heights. Your energy is infectious, and your kindness inspires me daily.

    “Two years of memories, laughter, and growth – I’m honored to have shared them with each and every one of you. Here’s to many more adventures together! Thank you for being my rock, my motivation, and my Champs.

    “I love and appreciate you all more than words can express. Thank you for loving me.”

  • Pere Egbi questions BBNaija’s Chinwe, Zion’s five-month old relationship

    Pere Egbi questions BBNaija’s Chinwe, Zion’s five-month old relationship

    Reality TV star Pere Egbi has expressed strong reservations about the decision of BBNaija Season 9 housemates Zion and Chinwe to showcase their five-month-old relationship on the show.

    Pere took to his X handle to caution the couple about the potential risks of publicly displaying their relationship, especially at such an early stage in the game.

    Read Also: Legal limits of protest

    Pere questioned their judgment, wondering if they had considered the possibility of one of them developing feelings for someone else in the house, which could jeopardise their bond.

    He expressed concerns in a series of posts, saying, “You get mind carry your 5 months relationship enter BBN? Aaaaah. So if your babe mistakenly falls for another guy nkor?”.

  • Sponsor your own godly shows, Woli Arole slams BBNaija critics

    Sponsor your own godly shows, Woli Arole slams BBNaija critics

    Popular comedian Woli Arole has fired back at critics of the reality show Big Brother Naija, telling them to sponsor their “godly” shows instead of complaining.

    In a statement on Instagram, Arole noted that those who desire more wholesome content should put their money where their mouth is and fund their own reality TV shows.

    He pointed out that there are wealthy Christians who can afford to sponsor shows that align with their values.

    Read Also: Legal limits of protest

    Arole’s comments come after some individuals called for BBNaija to be banned due to its perceived immorality.

    However, the comedian argued that critics have no right to dictate how the show should be run if they’re not willing to invest in alternative content.

    He wrote: “Nobody should complain about BBNaija ooo. Do your own Goldy reality TV shows, too!! If you don’t sponsor them, you can’t tell them how they should behave. Do yours!! There are billionaires that are Christians drop money for godly TV shows. Shikena”.

  • Ondo governor appoints Seyi Law as SSA

    Ondo governor appoints Seyi Law as SSA

    Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has appointed popular comedian Oluseyi Aletile, aka Seyi Law, as his senior special assistant on entertainment and tourism.

    The appointment, which takes immediate effect, was announced by the chief press secretary to the governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, in a statement released on Monday, July 29.

    Seyi Law’s appointment is part of a broader shake-up in the governor’s office, which saw the appointment of several other individuals as senior special assistants in various capacities.

    The new appointees include Alonge Felix Kolawole (Social Investment), Hon. Tomide Akinribido (ICT), Allen Sowore (Strategic Communication), Femi Lawson (Public Enlightenment), and Rotimi Agbede (Citizen Orientation).

    Also appointed were Muyiwa Ogunleye (Community Integration), Rotimi Wemimo Akinsola (Agric & Agribusiness), Uzoma Egbulefu (Non-indigenes), and Chief Olufunke Adu (Market Women Relations).

    Others are Mrs Eko Davies (Traders Affairs), Kike Isijola (Digital Media), Mrs Dupe Adetuwo (Arts & Culture), Oriade Adebanwo (Emergency Response), Fadesola Ojamomi (Inter-Party Affairs), Oladimeji Olawale (Intra-Party Affairs), Akinboni Samuel (Party Affairs), and Bello Titus Abiodun (Innovation).

    Read Also: Seyi Law hits Abuja with ‘All in my Head’ comedy show, features Korede Bello, Solidstar

    The governor’s office also announced the appointment of Special Assistants for mobilisation and representation of non-indigenous communities in the state and they include, Hon. Ejor Agagu (Mobilisation), Oluyemi Damilola Grace (Mobilisation), Isaiah Igwe (Non-indigenes for Igbo – North), Francis Belohun (Non-indigenes for Igbo – Central), Uche Okafor (Non-indigenes for Igbo – South), Mohammed Jamil (Non-indigenes for Hausa – North), Goniya Garuba (Non-indigenes for Hausa – Central), Issa Umar Mohammed (Non-indigenes for Hausa – South), Tenuche Fatai (Non-indigenes for Ebira – North), Alhaji Abdulkadir Adinoyi (Non-indigenes for Ebira – Central), Alhaji Abdulkareem Ododo (Non-indigenes for Ebira – South), and Imo Owoh (Non-indigenes for others).

    Governor Aiyedatiwa’s move is seen as a strategic effort to enhance governance and service delivery in the state, particularly in the entertainment and tourism sector, which is expected to benefit from Seyi Law’s expertise and experience.

  • There’s no true love in movie industry – Actor Damola Olatunji

    There’s no true love in movie industry – Actor Damola Olatunji

    Actor Damola Olatunji has highlighted the prevalence of fake love and unhealthy competition in the movie industry.

    In a revealing interview on Biola Bayo’s show, “Talk to B,” he disclosed that most attacks on celebrities come from within the industry, with colleagues using anonymous accounts to troll and undermine each other.

    Olatunji expressed concerns about the lack of genuine love and support among actors, who often pretend to care for one another while secretly fueling negativity.

    He advised aspiring actors to develop a “shock absorber” to navigate the industry’s harsh realities.

    He said: “If you are coming into the space of the entertainment industry, you need to have what is called a shock absorber.

    Read Also: Europe-bound man wearing church uniform arrested with cocaine hidden in sandals

    “In an industry where there is no true love, where we don’t truly love each other, fine, we do parties, we do all these things, we gather together to celebrate, and we smile and laugh at each other, but deep down, we don’t love each other.

    “The pages that will troll you are faceless; I think they are from the industry. Why do we have this unhealthy competition? Why do you think if I bring this person down, I will rise? So, I took my time to do the analysis, and I can see that, okay, most of these attacks come from within, come from the industry”.

    The actor emphasised his commitment to focusing on his own journey, refusing to engage in competition or bring others down to elevate himself.

    “One thing I don’t do is I don’t compete with anybody. I try as much as possible to run my race at my own pace”, he added.

  • I’ve never got to ‘I love you’ stage in relationships – Falz

    I’ve never got to ‘I love you’ stage in relationships – Falz

    Rapper and activist Falz has disclosed that he has never been in a committed relationship or professed love to anyone.

    In an interview on the ‘Menisms’ Podcast, Falz shared that he has always been upfront about his feelings and disposition, but has never reached a point in a relationship where he felt compelled to express love.

    He emphasised that he has never made any commitments in a relationship and has always been clear about his intentions.

    Falz also mentioned that he believes in regularly revisiting conversations about feelings and commitments to ensure both parties are on the same page.

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    He said: “I have never said I love you to anybody. I have never been in love or gotten to that level of emotional commitment before. And they have not said it to me. You know there is a level in a relationship where it’s like, ‘Oh, I love you, baby, I love you too’, I have never gotten there.

    “I’ve just not made the commitment. I have always been upfront about my feelings, disposition and commitment early on, so we are usually on the same page. That way, nobody is going to run off on their own tangent because we know what is going on.

    “Also, from time to time, I feel like these conversations need to be revisited every often. At the end of the day, it is not like I am not expressive, maybe I have just been consistently true to the cause and I have now become accustomed to the mindset of always guiding.”

  • I’ve fulfilled my duty as a great mother, says Iyabo Ojo on son’s university graduation

    I’ve fulfilled my duty as a great mother, says Iyabo Ojo on son’s university graduation

    Actress Iyabo Ojo has expressed her pride and joy as her son, Festus, graduated from university.

    In a heartfelt Instagram post, she thanked her son for making her proud and acknowledged the challenges she faced as a single mother.

    She also gave thanks to God for their success, highlighting her son’s educational journey from California to Turkey as a testament to divine intervention.

    Iyabo Ojo further celebrated her achievement as a single mother, dedicating her success to all single parents who have been told they can’t make it. She proudly declared herself a “true hero and champion” and looked forward to planning weddings and spoiling future grandchildren.

    She said: “@festo_baba, my darling son, my golden boy, Baba Jeje! First and foremost, I want to say thank you for making me proud.

    Read Also: 000 newly promoted officers in FCT Blessing Olaifa

    “Your graduation is a testament to your hard work and dedication. Congratulations! May this new chapter in your life bring you greatness, blessings, happiness, and prosperity.

    “As a single mother, it hasn’t been easy, but I give God all the glory for our success. From Riverside City College in California to Altinbas University in Istanbul, Turkey, it can only be God.

    “To every single parent out there who’s been told they can’t make it, we are the true heroes and champions!

    “We’ve proven them wrong, and I’m proud to be among them. We’re the true president general among the nation Yes!!!!!

    “I’ve fulfilled my duty as a great mother, and now it’s time to plan weddings and spoil future grandchildren silly to all my fans and loved ones, I say thank you, thank you, thank you.”

  • My upbringing influenced my activism, says Falz

    My upbringing influenced my activism, says Falz

    Rapper and activist, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz has shared how his upbringing shaped his approach to activism.

    In a recent episode of the Menisms Podcast, he clarified that his activism predates the 2020 ENDSARS Protest, contrary to popular belief.

    He said: “It was definitely not the ENDSARS moment that made me start activism; it was way before that moment that I’ve been doing this. I won’t lie, 100% of my background has played a huge part because this is what I grew up on.”

    Falz attributed his activism to his background, growing up listening to Fela Kuti’s music and being influenced by his father, Femi Falana.

    Read Also: Maleek Berry, Wizkid and Davido

    He emphasised that his father’s selflessness and commitment to social justice inspired him.

    “Apart from the Fela records, my dad is someone who has been an activist for maybe over 40 years so having someone like that as a father, everywhere I went, someone had a story about what he did for them. So that level of selflessness, which was an example for me so early on, played a part in shaping me and who I became. That was always at the back of my mind so with everything I was doing with my record, I drew inspiration from everything around me”, he added.

    The rapper stressed that activism has always been a part of him, and he has been conscious of social issues throughout his life.

    He explained that the 2020 ENDSARS protest was a culmination of his existing activism, saying he felt compelled to take action.

    “I’ve always been conscious and it’s always been there, so it’s not like I woke up one day. 2020 was a time when so much was happening that we needed to take a further step from just talking and we had to walk the walk. Of course, I was going to be in front because I had been talking the talk anyway”, he concluded.

  • Tonto Dikeh: Don’t chase what has no value for you

    Tonto Dikeh: Don’t chase what has no value for you

    Actress Tonto Dikeh has shared a series of poignant advice with her followers on her Instagram page.

    She offered eight nuggets of wisdom, addressing themes such as self-worth, boundaries, and relationships.

    Dikeh’s advice ranged from cautioning against over-investing in relationships where one’s presence is not valued, to encouraging self-love and self-prioritisation.

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    She urged followers to reevaluate their relationships and prioritize their own needs.

    “If you’re not invited, don’t go. If you’re not told, don’t ask. If you’re invited late, politely decline. If you’re left out of plans, move on. If you’re always initiating, take a step back. If your absence means nothing, then your presence is not valued. Don’t chase what has no value for you. Love yourself enough to choose you. Hard but worth it”, she wrote.