The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Gospel singer ‘Omije Ojumi’ for burial January 21

    Gospel singer ‘Omije Ojumi’ for burial January 21

    The family and friends of late gospel singer, Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi have announced schedule for her final burial rites after she died on January 12 after a prolonged illness.

    Months before her death, Akinnaanu had publicly appealed for prayers and healing while struggling with the illness.

    The burial arrangements were announced by fellow gospel singer, Alayo Melody, in an Instagram post, alongside a flier detailing the programme of events.

    According to the programme of events, the burial ceremonies will commence on Tuesday, January 20, with a service of songs at the LTV 8 Ground, Ikeja, Lagos, followed by a candlelight procession and tribute night.

    Read Also: Why Omije Ojumi wasn’t flown abroad for treatment – Alayo Melody

    The interment will take place on Wednesday, January 21 and will be held privately for family members and close associates.

    Akinnaanu, who rose to fame with her hit song Omije Ojumi, had left a career in banking to pursue gospel music full-time.

  • Seun Kuti, Peter Okoye reconcile after 2023 election feud

    Seun Kuti, Peter Okoye reconcile after 2023 election feud

    Afrobeats singers Seun Kuti and Peter Okoye, aka Mr P, have ended their public feud, making peace after months of disagreements over the 2023 presidential election.

    The disagreement began when Kuti criticised Labour Party candidate Peter Obi, prompting Okoye to respond and sparking a heated exchange on social media.

    Read Also: Sampling Fela music doesn’t make you him – Seun Kuti

    However, the musicians, who clashed on social media, were seen embracing at a Lagos nightclub, with Kuti stating, “We are artistes, we can’t be fighting over politicians,” a sentiment Okoye agreed with.

  • EbonyLife films to adapt Lola Shoneyin’s ‘The Secret lives of Baba Segi’s wives’ for 2026 release

    EbonyLife films to adapt Lola Shoneyin’s ‘The Secret lives of Baba Segi’s wives’ for 2026 release

    EbonyLife Films, led by Mo Abudu, is set to release a film adaptation of Lola Shoneyin’s novel, “The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives”, in December 2026.

    The film explores themes of power, rivalry and gender politics within a polygamous household, featuring an ensemble cast including Iyabo Ojo, Bimbo Ademoye and Omowunmi Dada.

    Produced in partnership with Nile Media Entertainment, Genesis Group, and Silverbird Group, the film marks EbonyLife’s return to cinemas after years of hiatus.

    Mo Abudu on Instagram, wrote: “BIG NEWS! The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives hits the big screen in December 2026. This is the first-ever feature film adaptation of Lola Shoneyin’s acclaimed masterpiece, @lolashoneyin.

    “In an unprecedented partnership, EbonyLife Group @ebonylifestudios is teaming up with Genesis Group @genesiscinemas, Nile Group @the.nilegroup, and SilverBird Group @silverbirdgroupng to bring this powerhouse story to the world stage”.

    Lola Shoneyin, the author of the original novel, is also attached to the project as a producer, with Adze Ugah adapting the screenplay and Daniel Oriahi directing.

    The novel, published in 2010, has gained international recognition for its sharp social commentary and portrayal of marriage, fertility, and female agency. 

  • Why I prefer stylish women to rich ones – Rema

    Why I prefer stylish women to rich ones – Rema

    Afrobeats star Rema has revealed his preference for a stylish partner over a wealthy one.

    In a recent interview, the 25-year-old singer stated that since he already has financial stability, a woman’s fashion sense is more important to him.

    When asked whether he would choose a woman with style or funds, Rema replied, “I already got the funds, so style.”

    Read Also: Tinubu salutes Rema, Burna Boy, others as Nigeria shines at 9th AFRIMA

    Rema, born Divine Ikubor, is a singer, songwriter, and gained recognition with his 2019 song ‘Dumebi’. 

    Born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, Rema’s music blends Afrobeat, trap, and pop, setting him apart in the Nigerian music scene.

  • Special effects artist James Akaie dies in Ogun film set explosion

    Special effects artist James Akaie dies in Ogun film set explosion

    Nollywood special effects artist James Akaie has died in an explosion on a movie set in Abeokuta, Ogun State. 

    According to the film production crew, RockBottom Flix, the incident occurred while Akaie was experimenting with an unauthorised pyrotechnic simulation involving a gas cylinder with two assistants. 

    He sustained severe injuries and died at the hospital, while his assistants suffered fire burns but are receiving treatment and are stable.

    The producer and director of the film, James Abinibi, confirmed the incident, describing Akaie as a brilliant and passionate artist who inspired everyone with his craft. 

    “It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we confirm a tragic accident occurred on location in Abeokuta as filming was coming to a wrap, resulting in the death of our esteemed colleague and friend, James Akaie.

    “During a filming session, a sudden and unexpected explosion occurred in a designated effects preparation area outside of the film set where James was experimenting on an unauthorised pyrotechnic stimulation involving a gas cylinder alongside his two assistants.

    “James succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His two other assistants sustained some fire burns and were immediately taken to a specialist hospital where they received immediate attention and were later confirmed stable as they continue receiving treatment.

    “Investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion, with the production team cooperating with authorities.

    “The specific circumstances leading to the explosion are currently under a thorough investigation by the relevant authorities. We are cooperating fully with this investigation as we further conduct our own internal review,” Abinibi stated.

    “James was a brilliant and passionate Special Effects and Pyrotechnics Artist, whose creativity, dedication and love for his craft inspired everyone who worked with him,” he said.

    “We will remember him not only for his exceptional skill but for the vibrant presence he brought to our set every day. We ask that the privacy of James’s family and our crew be respected as they navigate this unimaginable loss,” the statement added.

    Akaie was known for his outstanding work on several Nollywood movies, including “Mai Martaba”, “The Night of June 7th”, “Dark October”, and “Ireke”.

  • Vee opens up on marital pressure ahead 30th birthday

    Vee opens up on marital pressure ahead 30th birthday

    Actress and singer, Vee Iye has spoken out about the marital pressures of approaching 30.

    In a TikTok video, she shared a conversation with a married friend who asked about her marital status, stressing on the societal expectations women face.

    Vee expressed frustration, noting her friend didn’t ask about her work or wellbeing, only about having a man in her life. 

    According to her: “Nobody ever mentally prepared me for the amount of conversations I would have as a woman turning 30 this year. One of my friends called me last week. I hadn’t spoken to her in months, maybe even a year. She’s married and relocated to another country with her family.”

    Vee explained that after exchanging greetings, her friend said she had been praying and felt prompted to ask her a question. “The next thing she asked was, ‘When are you getting married?’ I am tired. She didn’t even ask me about work—the thing that is putting a roof over my head, the reason I can eat every single day. She cared about whether there is a man in my life.”

    She referenced Nigeria’s economic challenges, saying questions about marriage feel out of touch.

    “Let’s be honest with ourselves, the current climate right now is not looking great. I’m trying to focus on work and what’s next for me. That’s what’s running through my mind right now. Husband? Marriage? Children? I think not.”

    She added, “It’s not like I don’t want these things in the future. I do. But I am not in control of the timeline.”

  • Wizkid and Asake out with ‘Jogodo’

    Wizkid and Asake out with ‘Jogodo’

    Two Afrobeats heavyweights, Wizkid and Asake, have released a new single titled ‘Jogodo’ to kick-start the New Year.

    The track was released ahead of their forthcoming joint EP, ‘REAL, Vol. 1’ which is scheduled for release on January 23, 2026.

    ‘Jogodo’ sets the tone for the collaborative project, blending Wizkid’s laid-back global sound with Asake’s street-rooted style.

    Other tracks listed on the EP include ‘Turbulence’, ‘Iskolodo’ and ‘Alaye’.

    Read Also: Onuigbo lauds unveiling of Nigeria’s carbon market framework

    Speaking on the collaboration, Wizkid described the process as effortless as they are both creatively aligned.

    “Working on this record with Asake came naturally. We speak the same musical language,” he said.

    For Asake the collaboration happens out of respect for African culture.

    “When Wizkid and I collaborate, it feels special because it’s coming from a real place of friendship, mutual respect, and love for our culture,” he said.

  • Portable remains remanded as first wife delivers baby

    Portable remains remanded as first wife delivers baby

    Barely five days after controversial singer, Portable, was remanded in prison for a nine-count criminal charge, his first wife, Omobewaji, was delivered of a little tot.

    After he was arraigned on Monday, January 12, 2026 at a Federal High Court in Ogun State, the presiding judge declined to grant Portable bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court.

    The troubled singer was remanded in custody, with bail consideration adjourned to January 19, 2026.

    Read Also: No alternative to Tinubu in 2027, Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele tells Nigerians

    Meanwhile, Omobewaji, welcomed a newborn baby while the singer remains in prison.

    Sources claimed that the news of the arrival of his new born baby has been conveyed to the singer in prison. It was further alleged that he received the news with joy and can’t wait for his bail hearing so as to meet his child for the first time.

    Portable got into trouble with one of his wives, Ashabi Simple and allegedly assaulted a police officer during the clash.

  • I feel fulfilled when my music heals – Mr. Gbera

    I feel fulfilled when my music heals – Mr. Gbera

    Matthew Omotola Jaiyeola, popularly known as Mr Gbera, has said that he finds joy when his music inspires and heals people.

    Speaking recently, Gbera, who started music at a tender age in his daddy’s church, is one of the greatest indigenous gospel lyricists not only in Nigeria, but globally.

    “There are many recorded testimonies, and they keep coming day by day, even to date. I cannot forget a woman in Abeokuta who lost two of her children within a month and was ready to commit suicide. The planned suicide was aborted through my songs.

    There was also a man I met around Ikeja, Lagos, who lost his way and was trapped in mourning the loss of his twins. Pastors, friends, and family tried their best to help him out of the situation, but all to no avail—until one fateful day when he stumbled upon my songs online, and that became his freedom.”

    While reeling out a series of testimonies, many got through his music ministrations,  and he gave credit to God for this.

    “My inspiration comes directly from God. I draw energy from the same source, and I am always happy and active in making positive impacts in the lives of people.”

    Read Also: Why Nigerians in Diaspora reluctant to invest in Nigeria, by Winhomes CEO

    Gbera’s fan base extends beyond Nigeria.” This light has spread to unimaginable lengths and breadths across the world, and sometimes our fans and music lovers want to see us or meet us in person. We cannot deny them that opportunity. I only travel to make more global impact,” he said.

    The music minister also acknowledged Nigeria’s vibrant and globally influential music scene.

    While expressing happiness, he said the evidence is everywhere.” It will get even better than what we are seeing presently.”

    He is currently working on some new songs and collaborating with his colleagues.

    “ All my songs are great, and I love performing every one of them. However, based on requests and popularity, I often perform Iriri, Olorun Lo N’ Mumi bo, and Alanu Lo Njagun Aye Mi, to mention a few, “ Gbera said.

  • Afrobeats stars dominate MOBO Awards’ nomination

    Afrobeats stars dominate MOBO Awards’ nomination

    Some of Nigeria’s biggest Afrobeats exports including Ayra Starr, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Davido and Rema have been nominated for the 2026 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards, reaffirming the country’s growing influence on the global music scene.

    Others are Adekunle Gold and Shallipopi.

    The MOBO Awards, founded in 1996, recognises excellence across a wide range of genres including Afrobeats, hip-hop, R&B, jazz, gospel, electronic and alternative music.

    Read Also: No alternative to Tinubu in 2027, Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele tells Nigerians

    Among the Nigerian nominees, Ayra Starr stands out with two major nominations in different categories.

    The 23-year-old singer is up for Best African Music Act and Best International Act where she will compete with global stars including Cardi B, Gunna, Kehlani, and Vybz Kartel.

    Since her debut, Ayra has continued to push boundaries with chart-topping releases and international collaborations. This successful outcome is what positioned her as one of Africa’s most influential young voices.

    The 2026 MOBO Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 26, 2026 at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester.

    The event is expected to attract music executives, artistes and fans from across the globe.

    “2026 is extra special as the MOBO Organisation marks 30 years of shaping culture, championing talent, and creating unforgettable moments,” the organisers said in a statement.

    MOBOs have played a pivotal role in shaping Black music culture in the UK and beyond, spotlighting emerging talents while honouring established stars over the years.