The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Jesus no longer on the cross, Korede Bello shares journey from Islam to Christianity

    Jesus no longer on the cross, Korede Bello shares journey from Islam to Christianity

    Singer Korede Bello has shared a reflective message on faith, reaffirming his commitment to Christianity.

    In a video on Instagram, Bello questioned the focus on Jesus’ crucifixion, stating that as a Christian, Christ’s sacrifice is complete and there’s no need for re-crucifixion.

    “Does Jesus still belong on the cross? Before you crucify me, please be aware that I am a Christian and Christ has already died for me. He has already been crucified for me, so there’ll be no need for that. Jesus never said remember me on the cross. Am I saying the cross is not important? No”, he said.

    Bello explained that his message was inspired by a moment of prayer and reflection, during which he realised that Jesus is no longer on the cross but seated next to the Father.

    “I was praying and looking at the cross when it hit me that He’s no longer on it. When I think Jesus, I think my identity is seated right next to the Father. That’s where I am,” he said.

    He stressed that the resurrection is central to the Christian faith, citing Apostle Paul’s words: “If Christ has not risen, then your faith is futile.”

    Bello also shared his personal journey, revealing that he was born and raised a Muslim but became a Christian through personal study of the Bible.

    “I was not born a Christian. I was born a Muslim, I had to start at the Bible myself, not for religious reasons, but for personal reasons,” he explained.

    He expressed concern that many Christians remain fixated on the image of Christ on the cross, emphasising that their faith and identity should be in the risen Christ.

    Read Also: Korede Bello, Jimmy Jatt, Daayuur headline BlastOff with Turbo D

    “Our faith and identity are in the Christ who has ascended and is right next to the Father. When we pray, we’re praying through someone who is not on earth or on the tree. The cross carried our sins. The old identity is gone. Staying there is like nailing Christ over and over again,” he said.

    The singer urged believers to focus on love as the true mark of Christian identity, citing Jesus’ teaching: “People will know you’re my followers by the love you have for each other.”

    He also spoke on communion, saying it was the true act of remembrance.

    “He said when you eat the bread and drink the wine, do it in remembrance of me. He didn’t say remember me on the cross,” Bello added.

    He concluded by encouraging Christians to live renewed lives, saying: “Be well, be safe, be renewed, and be Christ-like. Think mega”.

  • Peller to abandon school over income

    Peller to abandon school over income

    TikTok content creator, Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has announced the decision to postpone his university education, just days after celebrating his admission to study law at a private university in Lagos State.

    Peller, during a live session o TikTok, cited financial constraints for the decision, stating that attending school will affect his income.

    He expressed frustration at spending hours in class without earning money.

    Peller also said he will feel out of place among his older classmates, describing himself as the youngest person in the class.

    “Guys, I swear to God, I remember I said I am going to school… I am not going again. I am not going again,” he said.

    Read Also: Court remands NEDC’s project coordinator Mohammed, one other in prison over alleged N5b fraud

    “I just remember, I was inside class for four hours. I didn’t make any money. I will write, I will look, I will play, not making anything. God forbid. I am not doing that one again,” he said.

    “When I enter the school, I notice that everyone is old, I am the only young blood there,” he added.

    “So I need to go old. Maybe when I clock like 30, 40 years, I will now go to school. Please cancel everything. I am tired,” he said.

    The decision marks a reversal from his recent public celebration of securing admission into a law programme, where he had expressed excitement and responded to critics who mocked his educational background.

    “Everyone has been criticising me for not being educated, as if I’m the first person who didn’t attend university. Now, all of you should leave social media, because I’m in school.

    “I’m now studying law. You can see it, right? You can’t mess with me anymore. I know the law,” he added.

  • Tonto Dikeh attributes reconciliation with ex-husband to son’s prayer

    Tonto Dikeh attributes reconciliation with ex-husband to son’s prayer

    Actress Tonto Dikeh has credited her 10-year-old son King André’s prayer for ending her bitter feud with ex-husband Olakunle Churchill.

    Speaking at Streams of Joy International, Dikeh revealed in her testimony that her son had prayed for the release of his passport, held by Churchill, amidst their public battle.

    Shortly after, Dikeh said Churchill contacted her, offering to release the documents.

    Dikeh’s son’s forgiveness and maturity prompted her to forgive Churchill, marking a significant transformation.

    The actress praised God for ending a decade of war, shame, and lack of love, attributing the miracle to her son’s sincere prayer.

    She said, “I’m giving this testimony on behalf of a 10-year-old boy because I am a beneficiary of a sincere prayer of a 10-year-old. At the beginning of the 21-day fast, Papa asked us to write seven things that we wanted and seven things that we didn’t want, and I told him, ‘Yes, write it.’ One of the evenings when I came to church to pray, I stayed behind to pray, and I was advantaged to have brought mine and his; I brought the prayer request to the altar.

    “As a mother, I saw his prayer points. I read them, and they were just different things. Then I got to number six, and my son wrote: ‘God, I want the embassy to release my passport.’ And that’s where the story comes. You see, I have always told my son that his passport was held by the embassy. I never even told him the truth at all, and the truth was that the passport was with his father. And his father and I have been in long, toxic, demonic battles; it’s been public, it is worldwide.

    “So I saw it, and I just sighed, and I said, ‘Oh God.’ I didn’t think much about it. Church, exactly two days later, now this testimony is from the first week of the 21-day prayer. His father reached out to me and said, ‘I want to give every document this boy needs; every document that you left with me.’ And for some reason, the Holy Spirit just told me, ‘He’s real. He’s serious. Believe him.’ And I just stood there, and I believed him. He asked me a series of questions, and those questions made me realize that it was time for me to talk to my son about who his father is.” She stated.

    Read Also: Tonto Dikeh shares testimony on faith, forgiveness after reconciliation with ex-husband

    She further explained, “So, I sat him down, and I asked, ‘Have you ever wondered who your dad is?’ I said, ‘I’m very sorry, what I’m about to say might hurt you.’ And then he said, ‘Mommy, talk.’ So I told him, ‘A man and a woman got married and gave birth to you, and then it became war.’ And then he said, ‘Really?’ I said, ‘Yeah. We were so bitter, we were toxic, and in the midst of all of this, we affected you. I’m sorry.’

    “And then he looked at me and said, ‘So, have you forgiven him?’ I didn’t answer. He said, ‘Mommy, have you forgiven him?’ And then I looked at my son because he’s very authoritative, and he said, ‘If you’ve forgiven him, I have forgiven you. But I’m upset with you for not telling me. But it’s okay, I can understand better now.’

    “Church, I’m telling you that this is 10 years of war. 10 years of public shame. 10 years. 10 years without a boy knowing his father. 10 years of bitterness, 10 years of lack of love, and everything just dissolved in front of my child. My child just held my hands, and I was crying. Then I started praying for that man. I prayed for that man.”

    She emphasised, “You don’t understand. Ex-presidents have intervened, but I said no. I said no because of how bitter I was. When I said I would burn the bridge, if you’re coming, I’ll burn you, it was not a lie. That was who I was. I had so much bitterness and anger.”

    “Church, I see myself addressing my ex-husband as he should be addressed. If it were before, I would have used a derogatory sentence or something added to his name. I see myself forgiving. You see, the biggest testimony in this life is the testimony of a changed person, because I have peace that doesn’t even make sense. It doesn’t make sense, it doesn’t. But God gave me 10 years in one day. I just want to give glory to God”, she said.

  • I nearly became a pastor at 19, but I ran away – Tonto Dikeh

    I nearly became a pastor at 19, but I ran away – Tonto Dikeh

    Actress Tonto Dikeh has revealed how she nearly became a pastor at age 19, sharing her spiritual journey in a viral livestream interview following her reconciliation with ex-husband Olakunle Churchill.

    Dikeh stated she has had a divine calling since childhood and ran away from it, believing God wanted her to experience life fully.

    The actress attributed her survival to faith, citing trials and divine guidance.

    The mother of one said, “I have always had this calling right from when I was a child. At 19, I was going to be a pastor until I just ran away for no reason. I’ve been in church since I left secondary school. So I’ve known God intimately, I’ve known God intensely, for as long as I was a child. And I’ve always known that I have this calling.

    “If you watch what has happened in my life, it’s not ordinary. Anybody who may have or may walk in my shoes may not have survived, would not even survive. Because God called me for something and He needed me to go through all of these things to come out of the firebrand that I am today.”

    Dikeh also added that her calling lies in prayer and healing, hinting at an online prayer platform launch pending divine approval.

    Read Also: Tonto Dikeh shares testimony on faith, forgiveness after reconciliation with ex-husband

    Dikeh stated, “Prayers and healing are my calling. God can heal. It depends on what God asks me to do. I think any good Christian can. Any firm believer can. At this stage of my life, I’m just letting God lead. God asked me to start praying for people online, and that’s what I’m doing. He’s the one taking me day by day. I’m just a vessel.

    “So if He says to do that, I will do that. I don’t know about monetising. My calling is not about money. I was talking to somebody the other day, and I told the person, “You see, there are some people who are just going to be there for God forever.”

    Dikeh said her return to faith wasn’t driven by fame or wealth but survival and the desire to live.

    “I didn’t run to God because of money. I’m already rich. Because I wanted to turn a new leaf. Because I wanted to step into the mandate. You know, the extra vessel mandated that He wanted me to step into”, she added.

    She previously shared struggles with demonic anger, smoking, alcoholism, and other personal battles, crediting God for deliverance.

  • Ini Edo congratulates Akindele, Abraham on Nollywood success

    Ini Edo congratulates Akindele, Abraham on Nollywood success

    Actress Ini Edo has congratulated industry heavyweights Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham for breaking records and pushing the boundaries of Nigerian cinema.

    In an Instagram post, Edo expressed her admiration for their commitment, strategising, and marketing efforts, stating that their level of dedication is on a “whole different level”.

    She said, “I want to congratulate these industry titans, @funkejenifaakindele and @toyinabraham, for literally breaking all records and pushing beyond every envelope to record these groundbreaking successes for Nollywood brah, my respect for these 2 has taken a hike. The level of commitment, strategizing, marketing, and playing the game generally is on a whole different level.”

    Edo also reflected on her own project, ‘A Very Dirty December’, acknowledging that she took a different approach and sacrificed her holiday to pursue an ambition.

    Read Also: Ini Edo: My movie is not a slight to Christian celebration

    She expressed pride in herself and her team, including Yfalaye, Becca Ashang, Edojnr, Eucharia Anunobi, Ik Ogbonna, Unusual Phyna, and Chief Femibranch, for their commitment to the project.

    “I knew it was kinda over ambitious of me to think I could run this whole December race, but my coconut head, I’ve always known myself to follow my gut and do as I please. So yeah, I sacrificed my holiday to achieve my ambition. I am particularly proud of myself and my team, who were kind enough to stay committed to the project. We came, we pushed, made our mark and learnt our lessons”, she added.

    The actress encouraged others to take risks and pursue their goals, saying, “Don’t be afraid of making that move. What’s the worst that could happen? Win or lose, we move. 2026 I fit try am again o.”

  • Wishing people dead in my name is evil – Judy Austin warns fans

    Wishing people dead in my name is evil – Judy Austin warns fans

    Actress Judy Austin has issued a stern warning to her supporters, urging them to cease posting disturbing content that wishes death on individuals perceived as her opponents.

    In an Instagram video posted on Tuesday, Austin addressed her dedicated fans while reacting to viral images and flyers depicting people in caskets with death threats tied to defending her.

    The actress, who has faced intense online backlash since her 2022 marriage to actor Yul Edochie, expressed heartbreak over the extreme actions taken in her name.

    Austin said, “Hi, my warriors. My Judy lovers. First of all, I want to thank you again for the way you all fight for me, for the way you love me. I do not take it for granted. Thank you, guys, so much.

    “I saw some very disturbing images with people in a casket, posts wishing people dead. That really broke my heart. So, let me be very clear, that kind of action does not represent me. It’s not love, it’s not support, and it’s wrong. Life is sacred; it’s not something you joke with. If you truly love me, please stop. Do not defend me by losing your humanity. This is too much, this is too low”.

  • Carter Efe thanks Davido, shades Wizkid for ignoring him

    Carter Efe thanks Davido, shades Wizkid for ignoring him

    Popular content creator Carter Efe has publicly expressed deep appreciation for Afrobeats superstar Davido, crediting him with transformative support, while taking a subtle swipe at Grammy-winning artist Wizkid for deliberate neglect.

    Efe, via a TikTok live session, highlighted Davido’s generosity during a landmark appearance on his Twitch livestream last year.

    The December 2025 session, where Davido joined as a guest, shattered records to become one of the most-watched Twitch broadcasts by an African creator, boosting Carter Efe’s visibility and followers significantly.

    “Davido is a legend and a real supporter. He came to my livestream and changed the game for me,” Carter Efe stated.

    Read Also: Carter Efe opens up on ‘painful’ separation from baby mama

    He described the 30BG leader as someone consistently willing to uplift others in the entertainment space.

    In contrast, the comedian voiced long-standing frustration toward Wizkid, pointing to his 2022 hit single “Machala”, which paid homage to the Starboy boss and topped charts in Nigeria.

    Despite the song’s commercial success, with millions of streams and widespread popularity, Carter Efe claimed Wizkid offered no recognition or response.

    “But Wizkid couldn’t even say ‘hi’ to me, even after I made a song for him that went number one,” he lamented. “Yet he had time to reply Seun Kuti. Wizkid no reply me wey drop number one song, ‘Machala’, na their him muzz me. Omo, Davido will live long.”

  • Biodun Stephen criticises trend of women going out without underwear

    Biodun Stephen criticises trend of women going out without underwear

    Filmmaker Biodun Stephen has condemned the growing trend of women appearing in public without underwear, describing it as ‘nuisance’ and not a legitimate fashion choice.

    In a TikTok video, Stephen recounted a recent incident at a salon where a woman’s privat3 part was inadvertently exposed due to the absence of underwear, citing it as an example of why the trend should be discouraged.

    “Last week, I went to get my hair done at the salon. A lady came in to do her pedicure. As she sat, I looked at her side, I saw her vagina in full display.

    “Who is teaching us all these fashion? Is it a fashion trend not to wear pant?” she asked.

    She emphasised the need for women to prioritise modesty and wear suitable undergarments in public.

    Stephen, who has consistently spoken out against this practice since 2015, questioned the influence behind this trend.

    “I believe the first time I talked about ladies not putting on pants was in 2015. Let’s try to always wear pants, there are several types. Why don’t we like wearing pants?” she said.

    Read Also: Biodun Stephen advocates reshaping storytelling in Nollywood

    She stressed that it’s unnecessary and uncomfortable for others, urging women to wear pants or other suitable undergarments.

    “You are coming for a pedicure, you would at least wear something long. Must you wear mini gown or skirt without pant?

    “Why is pant your enemy? Who told you pant is your enemy? Who told you it isn’t good for you? Please stop doing it. This is not fashion, it is nuisance”, she added.

  • NFC congratulates Toyin Abraham on ‘Oversabi Aunty’ N1bn milestone

    NFC congratulates Toyin Abraham on ‘Oversabi Aunty’ N1bn milestone

    The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has congratulated Toyin Abraham on the remarkable success of her directorial debut, “Oversabi Aunty,” which has grossed over N1 billion at the box office.

    In a statement on Instagram, NFC CEO, Dr. Ali Nuhu, praised the film’s cultural relevance, strong distribution strategy, and the growing cinema-going culture in Nigeria.

    He noted that “Oversabi Aunty” showcases the power of locally rooted stories and strategic marketing in achieving extraordinary reach and impact.

    The NFC acknowledged the collective effort behind the project and looks forward to more industry milestones, reinforcing the message that Nigerian filmmakers can build big films, command big audiences, and deliver results at home and beyond.

    Nuhu wrote, “Every industry reaches certain moments that quietly signal growth. The Nigerian Film Corporation recognizes one of such moments in the remarkable box office journey of Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi’s Oversabi Aunty, which has now officially crossed the ₦1 billion mark in Nigerian cinemas.

    “This achievement places Ms. Abraham in the prestigious league of filmmakers whose works have not only connected culturally with audiences but have also demonstrated strong commercial viability in an increasingly competitive cinema market.

    Read Also: Toyin Abraham’s ‘Oversabi Aunty’ hits N1bn, sets new Nollywood record

    “Oversabi Aunty is a clear example of how locally rooted stories, when properly produced and strategically marketed, can achieve extraordinary reach and impact. The film’s success reflects a deep understanding of the Nigerian audience, a strong distribution strategy, and the growing cinema-going culture across the country.

    “Beyond the numbers, this milestone represents something more important: the expanding economic credibility of Nollywood. Crossing the ₦1 billion threshold is no longer an anomaly; it is becoming a benchmark that proves Nigerian cinema can sustain large-scale investment, return value, and long theatrical runs.

    “The Corporation also acknowledges the collective effort behind this project from the creative and technical teams to distributors, exhibitors, and the audiences whose consistent support transformed this film into a commercial landmark.

    “Toyin Abraham’s journey with Oversabi Aunty reinforces a powerful message to the industry: Nigerian filmmakers can build big films, command big audiences, and deliver big results at home and beyond.

    “The Nigerian Film Corporation celebrates this achievement as another strong signal of progress for the nation’s creative economy and looks forward to even greater milestones from the industry.”

  • Stay true to Fela Kuti’s legacy, Yomi Fabiyi urges Wizkid

    Stay true to Fela Kuti’s legacy, Yomi Fabiyi urges Wizkid

    Actor Yomi Fabiyi has written an open letter to Wizkid, urging him not to erase Fela Kuti’s image he tattooed on his skin amid recent controversy.

    Fabiyi acknowledged Wizkid’s celebration of Fela’s legacy, citing his participation in Felabration events and positive remarks about the late legend.

    He reminded Wizkid of his influential status, saying he represents a revolution in Nigeria and Afrobeat music.

    Fabiyi encouraged Wizkid to manage the situation and continue celebrating Fela’s legacy, emphasising that he is a big star, a living legend, and a national asset.

    He wrote: “Dear Wizzy, Please don’t be tempted to erase Fela’s image you tattooed. Manage this storm very well, mate. You unarguably represent a revolution/history in Nigeria and Afrobeat music.

    “Yes, aside from the fact that Late Legend, Fela, enjoys pioneer status, he represents a revolution, and his impact is felt in giving voice to the voiceless, fighting corruption, making sacrifices, and, indeed, in the democracy we now enjoy. His music is a movement.

    “You have acknowledged and celebrated Fela more than millions of us have. For a musician of your status to have graced several Felabrations means you have ensured you sustain Fela’s legacy. For a global music legend like you to have him tattooed on your skin and for you to speak highly of him in a recent documentary, etc., we understand your genuine opinion, and the situation should have been handled better.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Top 10 Fela Kuti songs

    “Continue celebrating Fela and walk the path of honour and peace. You are a BIG STAR, a living legend, and a national asset, and we hold Legendary Fela Anikulapo and Ayo Balogun in high esteem. I can’t trade you both for anything. I don’t compare because comparison proves nothing. May you live long and fulfil more dreams. Greater you, Wizzy”.

    The letter comes after Seun Kuti, Fela’s son, slammed Wizkid’s fanbase for involving Fela’s name in online music disputes.

    According to him, labelling modern artists as the “new Fela” underestimates his father’s impact.

    Following the online brouhaha, Wizkid claimed superiority over Fela and questioned Seun’s right to claim his father’s legacy.