The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • My music gives voice to the marginalised, says Sktonero

    My music gives voice to the marginalised, says Sktonero

    Nigerian singer and songwriter Ezeakudo Tonna Emmanuel, aka Sktonero, has said his music is a voice for the marginalised and overlooked in society.

    Speaking during a recent press briefing, Sktonero credited Afrobeats icon Wizkid as a major influence on his artistic journey.

    “My songs are letters from the heart for those who feel overlooked. Wizkid showed me it was possible. That’s why I stayed true to the SoundKid in me,” he stated.

    Born on October 6, 1998, in Lagos, Sktonero blends Afrobeats, street-pop, and raw emotional storytelling.

    Read Also: I haven’t experienced true love in relationships – Tiwa Savage

    His music career began in 2020 with the single Ewu, and he made his formal debut in 2025 with the EP Sounds and Melodies, featuring tracks such as H.I.M., Suffer, Special, and Igbo Boy.

    At the press event, Sktonero was joined by his manager, Chinedu Okeke, and producer, Hootkeed.

    Okeke described the artist as a voice for the streets, adding, “Through his music, Sktonero gives voice to those often unheard in mainstream narratives.”

    Producer Hootkeed echoed this sentiment, highlighting Sktonero’s commitment to authenticity.

    “He’s not just an artist; he’s a storyteller for the streets,” Hootkeed said.

    A Political Science graduate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Sktonero’s lyrics often reflect themes of resilience, identity, and the everyday struggles of urban life.

  • Why Afrobeats is gaining global attention – Rukky

    Why Afrobeats is gaining global attention – Rukky

    Nigerian-Born singer and music producer Rukky Great is making waves abroad with his unique blend of Afrobeats, soul, and hip-hop influences.

    In a recent interview, the fast-rising artist—real name Oghenerukevwe Atikpe—opened up about the growing acceptance of Nigerian music in the diaspora and how that inspires his creative journey.

    Rukky Great, who released his latest single, ‘Ready,’ believes the global spread of Afrobeats is only just beginning. “Nigerian artists in the diaspora are gaining acceptance and it’s a very good thing because there’s huge potential to be tapped,” he said. “Just the other day, I was passing an Indian shop and I heard them playing Afrobeats. I was proud of my origin.”

    Read Also: Oxlade hails Fireboy DML as key mentor in music journey

    The singer-producer, who began his music career in 2017 and moved fully into production by 2019, noted that representing Nigerian culture abroad is something he takes seriously. “I want to be that one person spearheading and representing Nigerian culture—a big part of Africa—abroad. My constant collaboration with artists in other parts of the world is part of that mission.”

    His single, ‘Ready,’ inspired by someone special, has been receiving positive reviews and impressive streaming numbers. Produced by Phantave and co-produced, mixed, and mastered by Rukky himself, the song reflects his hands-on approach to music and his evolving artistry.

    When asked about challenges faced by Nigerian artistes in the diaspora, Rukky pointed to a lack of funding and community support as key barriers. “The industry is very competitive right now,” he said. “Technology and AI have made music creation more accessible, but getting your music in front of the right audience takes a lot more—and it’s not cheap.”

  • Superstar7even: I won’t be confined to traditional genres

    Superstar7even: I won’t be confined to traditional genres

    Emerging artist Superstar7even, born Mariam Abiona Ibrahim, has said she refuses to be confined by traditional music genres as she releases her debut single, ‘Don’t Play.’

    Known for blending Afrobeats, pop, R&B, and contemporary sounds, the artist aims to challenge conventional boundaries in music.

    Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Superstar7even, shared her creative philosophy. “I believe music should be free from narrow classifications. My sound is a reflection of my experiences, my roots, and my vision for the future,” she said.

    Her debut signals an important step in the growing global influence of African music. By incorporating Afrobeats into her work, Superstar7even highlights the genre’s reach and its power to connect people from different backgrounds.

    “My music is a bridge between cultures. It’s about unity, inspiration, and breaking down barriers,” she added.

    Storytelling lies at the heart of her style. Drawing from personal experiences, her lyrics are designed to connect emotionally with listeners.

    Read Also: I haven’t experienced true love in relationships – Tiwa Savage

    “Every song I create comes from a place of truth. I want my music to heal, inspire, and bring people together,” she shared.

    As she continues to develop her sound, Superstar7even remains focused on creative growth and long-term impact.

    “This is just the beginning. I’m here to create music that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impact,” she said.

    With her debut single now out, Superstar7even’s journey as an artist is officially underway, bringing a fresh and bold voice to the music scene.

  • Adeleke off to US for Davido’s wedding

    Adeleke off to US for Davido’s wedding

    Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke has travelled to the United States to attend the highly anticipated wedding of his nephew, Davido, to Chioma in Miami, Florida.

    The Governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, confirmed the trip, stating that Adeleke departed Nigeria on a private jet and will return shortly.

    “Governor Adeleke left Nigeria for the United States via the family’s private jet a few days ago for the wedding of the global music icon, his beloved nephew, David Adeleke.

    “His Excellency is extending an invitation to the opposition party to attend the event and share in the joy of the occasion with the Adeleke family,” he wrote.

    Read Also: Don’t blame Tinubu for north’s woes, Shehu Sani tells critics

    Rasheed assured that despite the Governor’s absence, governance in Osun State will continue uninterrupted with Deputy Governor Prince Kola Adewusi overseeing state activities.

    “For this current trip, the Governor has again chosen to make it a short one to continually attend to crucial state functions.

    “Meanwhile, the Governor is in constant communication with his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, who is supervising activities of the government,” Rasheed added.

    The Governor also extended an invitation to the opposition party to attend the event or join virtually to share in the joy of the occasion.

    “Those unable to attend may join virtually,” Rasheed stated.

  • I vomited blood for six months – 9ice recounts ‘spiritual attack’

    I vomited blood for six months – 9ice recounts ‘spiritual attack’

    Singer 9ice has opened up about a life-threatening spiritual attack he experienced in 2010.

    In a recent episode on The Nancy Isime’s TV show, 9ice said during that period, he suffered from a mysterious illness that caused him to vomit blood for six months.

    According to 9ice, the condition was not a medical issue, but rather a spiritual affliction that required spiritual intervention.

    He stated that it was only after being referred to an Ifa priest that he found healing and subsequently discovered the power of traditional African spirituality.

    He said the experience led him to become a traditionalist and a Babalawo (Ifá priest) with regrets of not embracing his cultural heritage earlier and encourages others to explore and appreciate African traditional practices.

    He cited Fela Kuti as an example of someone who was ahead of his time in embracing African spirituality, despite facing criticism.

    Read Also: Music is controlled by Devil – 9ice

    Isime asked, “Would you say you’ve experienced spiritual battles while doing music?”

    9ice replied: “Several times.”

    Isime asked: “What’s that one spiritual battle you went through that you thought you would not get out of?”

    9ice replied: “When I was vomiting blood for about six months in my own house. I had to leave my house. It happened in 2009/2010. It wasn’t a medical condition.”

    Isime asked: “So, how do you protect yourself?”

    9ice replied: “I’m not a Christian or a Muslim, I’m a Babalawo. I’m an African. I’m a traditionalist. The first time I experienced ifa was when I was vomiting blood. Someone referred me to ifa. I just wished that I had known ifa at the beginning. Fela used to go to Ogun and people were mocking him, but now, I understand.”

  • BBNaija S10: Isabella, Kayikunmi engage in intimacy

    BBNaija S10: Isabella, Kayikunmi engage in intimacy

    Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemates Kayikunmi and Isabella have engaged in intimacy after the first Saturday night party.

    A widely circulated video showed Isabella exposing her breast and placing it in Kayikunmi’s mouth, following an earlier moment where he was seen touching her nipples.

    The explicit scene, aired on live television, triggered a wave of reactions across social media.

    Read Also: Music is controlled by Devil – 9ice

    Fans and viewers expressed divided opinions.

    Some criticised the act as inappropriate for a public broadcast, raising concerns about privacy and the show’s content standards.

    Others defended the housemates, citing the show’s mature rating and pointing out a perceived double standard, as Isabella faced harsher scrutiny than Kayikunmi.

  • Music is controlled by Devil – 9ice

    Music is controlled by Devil – 9ice

    Singer 9ice has claimed that the music industry is controlled by the devil, whom he refers to as the “choirmaster”.

    Speaking on Nancy Isime’s show, 9ice alleged devilish influence is the reason many musicians engage in certain behaviours such as smoking.

    He claimed that his understanding of the industry’s spiritual dynamics is based on his personal experiences and knowledge.

    Read Also: Blessing CEO demands justice over fiancé IVD’s ‘unlawful’ arrest

    9ice warned aspiring musicians to be aware of the industry’s spiritual realities, emphasising that they need to understand the environment they’re entering.

    He stressed that the music industry is generally controlled by the devil and that artists should be prepared for the challenges that come with it.

    He said, “The devil controls music. Devil is the choirmaster. That’s why we smoke and do all the things we do.”

    “Music generally is controlled by the devil. If you’re coming to this industry, understand where you’re coming to.

    “I’m not lying to you. He [the devil] is the most powerful angel. I’m speaking based on knowledge and what I’ve experienced spiritually.”

  • Poverty my biggest fear in life – Actress Jemima Osunde

    Poverty my biggest fear in life – Actress Jemima Osunde

    Actress Jemima Osunde has confessed that poverty is her biggest fear.

    She made this revelation on The Culture League podcast, hosted by Super Eagles striker, Victor Boniface.

    Osunde emphasised that while she can survive many challenges, poverty is something she cannot endure.

    She expressed her aversion to the idea of being poor, stating that she values her dignity, decency, and morals above all else.

    Read Also: Blessing CEO demands justice over fiancé IVD’s ‘unlawful’ arrest

    According to Osunde, she is willing to do whatever it takes to avoid poverty, as long as her actions don’t compromise her self-respect and principles.

    She said, “My biggest fear in life, I can survive many things, but I can never survive poverty. I can never do it. Being real and being poor, how does it benefit me?

    “I don’t even want to taste poverty. I’m okay where I am. I don’t want it.”

  • Blessing CEO demands justice over fiancé IVD’s ‘unlawful’ arrest

    Blessing CEO demands justice over fiancé IVD’s ‘unlawful’ arrest

    Relationship coach Blessing CEO has come to the defence of her fiancé, IVD, after he was reportedly detained by the Lagos State Police at the airport while attempting to travel to Qatar.

    According to Blessing CEO, IVD’s arrest stemmed from an ongoing domestic violence case related to his late wife, Bimbo.

    Blessing CEO disputed the grounds for the arrest, claiming there was no travel ban imposed on IVD.

    She said it was implausible that IVD would publicly announce his travel plans if such a restriction existed.

    Furthermore, she questioned the legitimacy of the arrest, demanding to see the supporting paperwork and challenging the police to specify the charges against him.

    The relationship expert accused the police of bullying and intimidation, alleging that a single individual is using their power to hold IVD captive.

    She called on the Lagos State authorities to intervene in the matter before it escalates further.

    Read Also: Oritsefemi hands over daughter to Lithuanian husband

    According to her, IVD has been cooperative throughout the three-year-long case and had no intention of fleeing, as evidenced by his return ticket for the 10-day trip.

    She wrote on Instagram: “Ivd never submitted any passport to the court, his passport was missing and after 2 years to the case he did a new passport. There was no ban whatsoever on him; if there was, why would he make his travel public? IVD has never jumped bail for 3 years of the ongoing case, so why would he run for just a 10-day trip that has a return ticket? This is a game of politics and dirty emotions, and I hope there is paperwork. I will question the law.

    “What are you charging him for? Show us the paperwork. Why are you holding him hostage just to please a woman?
    This is a tribal war; it has nothing to do with justice. And the state must be questioned. Nobody arrested ivd,1 man is using power to bully ivd. No case file, no statement just said oga said hold him till monday so we go lock am up.
    My question is for what??? They know the judges are on vacation, which is why the bully. How come bloggers know everything that the police don’t know? I wonder how much that woman paid you, Oga.

    “I rest my case. Stop bullying Ivd because he is a MAN. Stop intimidating him. Just because you could not take his life, you are doing everything to intimidate him. This is an injustice. They have bullied him for over 3 years.

    “Lagos state, please come into this before it gets messy. Why are they holding IVD?”.

  • Iyanya to reward Nurse N500,000 for defying strike

    Iyanya to reward Nurse N500,000 for defying strike

    Afrobeats singer Iyanya has expressed the desire to reward a nurse who was ridiculed by her colleagues for showing up to work despite the national strike action by the union.

    A video of the nurse being mocked went viral, sparking sympathy from Iyanya, who offered to gift her N500,000.

    According to Iyanya, the nurse’s actions demonstrated her commitment to saving lives and her role as an essential worker.

    He wrote: “Can someone find her for me, I want to give her 500k. She is not a health care worker for the money but for human lives. Someone find her for me please.”

    When a some netizen questioned his decision, labeling her actions as “bad behavior,” Iyanya defended her, stating that her dedication to the job deserves recognition and compensation.

    Read Also: I made every mistake my father made – Clarence Peters

    According to Iyanya, the nurse’s humiliation at the hands of her colleagues was unwarranted, and he wants to reward her selflessness.

    He has called on netizens to help locate the nurse so he can provide the gift.

    A user queried, “Why do some Nigerians love rewarding bad behavior???”

    Iyanya replied, “What’s your definition of bad behavior?
    A nurse decided not to go on strike so she can save lives being at work is bad behavior to you? She is an essential worker and she deserves some compensation, and the way she was humiliated was wrong.
    Find her for me, I have 500k for her immediately.”