The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Phyna speaks on backlash over viral Abuja hotel clash

    Phyna speaks on backlash over viral Abuja hotel clash

    Reality TV star Phyna has addressed the widely circulated video capturing her in a physical altercation at an Abuja hotel on Tuesday.

    The confrontation, reportedly sparked by a dispute over an unpaid N200,000 debt, began in Phyna’s hotel room and escalated into a chaotic brawl in the hotel lobby, involving associates of both parties.

    The 20-second viral clip, shared across platforms like X and Instagram, shows an unidentified woman engaging Phyna physically while bystanders attempt to intervene.

    Read Also: Star DJ Fizzy out with new single ‘Vibration’

    On Wednesday night, Phyna, on Instagram denied claims that she was overpowered and acted in self-defense against an orchestrated attack.

    “Who I beat dey hospital, dem carry touts come fight and people to record,” she posted in Pidgin English, alleging the video was selectively edited to distort the narrative.

    Claiming the woman involved was hospitalised, she added: “I was attacked from behind on my way out. Dem even crop the video just to twist story say dem beat me. Make una rest!

    “The girl wey l beat never even regain consciousness. Una dey mad! Pray for me make who I beat no die abeg.”

    Phyna attributed the clash to ongoing theft by the individual, stating, “I no get joy for anybody when I know say dem dey thief from me.”

    The incident followed Phyna’s recent loss of her sister, Ruth Otabor, in a truck accident in August 2025.

  • Star DJ Fizzy out with new single ‘Vibration’

    Star DJ Fizzy out with new single ‘Vibration’

    Singer Star DJ Fizzy is back in full effect with his brand new single ‘Vibration’

    Known for his electrifying sets and ability to turn any event into a full blown experience, Star DJ Fizzy delivers another masterpiece that blends rhythm, energy, and soul into one unstoppable groove.

    “Vibration” is a feel-good Afrobeat anthem layered with smooth melodies, catchy hooks, and a pulse that connects instantly with the listener. From the first beat,

    “Vibration” commands attention. It’s that song you can’t help but move to.

    Speaking on the track, DJ Fizzy said: “This record means a lot to me. It’s about energy, good vibes, connection, and living in rhythm with yourself and the world. I wanted to create a sound people could feel, not just hear.

    READ ALSO: CBN, finance ministry present Nigeria’s economic progress at G24 meetings

    With his unique sound and consistent rise in the Nigerian and global music scene, Star DJ Fizzy has built a loyal fanbase that trusts him to deliver nothing but hits.

    Over the years, he’s shared stages with some of the industry’s biggest acts and carved out his place as one of the most exciting DJs and singers to watch.

    “Vibration” isn’t just another release, it’s a statement. It reminds fans why Star DJ Fizzy remains one of the most respected and energetic voices in the game.

    Whether it’s at a packed club, a chilled rooftop party, or a road trip playlist, this song sets the mood just right.

  • BBNaija Faith supports vulnerable families with NGO food drive

    BBNaija Faith supports vulnerable families with NGO food drive

    Disqualified Big Brother Naija season 10 housemate Faith has partnered with the Lagos Food Bank Initiative to support vulnerable families in Lagos.

    The outreach programme, part of the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program, aims to provide relief for families struggling with hunger and the cost-of-living crisis.

    According to a tweet via Lagos Food Bank’s page, it reads, “Big Brother changed his life, now he’s choosing to change the world. Faith Adewale is not just using his voice; he’s using his platform to give back.”

    Faith had previously volunteered with LFBI’s #NUMEPlan, a program focused on treating and feeding malnourished children.

    “After volunteering at Lagos Food Bank under the #NUMEPLAN program, where malnourished children are treated and fed, he made a promise to return and do more.

    READ ALSO: CBN, finance ministry present Nigeria’s economic progress at G24 meetings

    “On Wednesday, 15th October, he’s keeping that promise as he will be joining us at the Food Bank Warehouse for an impactful TEFAP Program to serve vulnerable families. This isn’t just an outreach, it’s a movement of love, hope, and action”, the statement reads.

    This new initiative showcases Faith’s commitment to using his platform for purpose-driven work and giving back to the community.

    The Lagos Food Bank Initiative is also collaborating with five outstanding NGOs to strengthen communities and reduce food insecurity across Nigeria.

    “Together, we’re making a real difference in the fight against hunger. This collaboration strengthens communities and helps reduce food insecurity across Nigeria.

    “Nigeria faces a paradox of food surplus and widespread hunger. Our mission is to bridge that gap to ensure no one goes hungry while food goes to waste,” the statement read.

    “Our target group in this program is the very needy cases of persons who are aged, disabled, patients of diet-related diseases, or beneficiaries severely affected by the negative effects of the cost-of-living crisis.

    “The agricultural landscape in Nigeria presents a complex challenge, with significant food surplus coexisting alongside widespread hunger and food insecurity.

    “Despite being a prominent agricultural producer, the nation grapples with food loss and waste across the supply chain, leading to economic losses, environmental degradation, and inadequate access to nourishing sustenance for many Nigerians”, the statement concluded.

    Since his disqualification, Faith has spoken openly about his journey, revealing that he took a N5 million loan to participate in the show, an experience he described as “transformational.”

  • Nkechi Blessing tests N3m iPhone 17 in water, dismisses XR claims

    Nkechi Blessing tests N3m iPhone 17 in water, dismisses XR claims

    Actress Nkechi Blessing has proven the authenticity of her iPhone 17 by participating in the trending “Apple Challenge,” which tests whether high-end iPhones are genuine by submerging them in water.

    The challenge was initiated by media personality Daddy Freeze to verify claims by celebrities and influencers about owning original Apple devices.

    In a video shared online, Nkechi confidently dipped her ₦3 million iPhone 17 into a bowl of water, demonstrating that it was indeed authentic.

    READ ALSO: CBN, finance ministry present Nigeria’s economic progress at G24 meetings

    Before performing the test, she displayed her collection of Apple gadgets, stressing that all her devices were genuine.

    Reacting to criticism from some followers who had mocked her over the phone, she said, “I am an Apple girl, as you can see. All my gadgets are Apple. I no go let una wey dey buy this iPhone 17 wey I buy for ₦3 million for ₦450k, ₦250k or ₦50k disrespect me. This Apple Challenge na Daddy Freeze start am. If una sure, put una phone inside water like this.”

    Her move comes amid online debates and skepticism surrounding claims by some celebrities about owning the latest Apple devices.

  • Ayra Starr, Rema to release new single ‘Who’s Dat Girl’

    Ayra Starr, Rema to release new single ‘Who’s Dat Girl’

    Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr is set to release a joint single, ‘Who’s Dat Girl’ featuring Rema on Friday, October 17, at 1 a.m. WAT.

    The announcement buzzed on X, where Ayra Starr dropped a teaser video capturing their electric onstage synergy, while Mavin Records followed up with an official promo post.

    READ ALSO: CBN, finance ministry present Nigeria’s economic progress at G24 meetings

    Ayra Starr announced the news on Instagram with a striking visual that immediately sent fans spiraling.

    In the photo, both artists lift their shirts over their faces, revealing airbrushed portraits of each other on their tees.

    Rema flaunted his toned torso and signature tattoos, while Ayra mirrors him with effortless cool, pairing a white crop top with patterned jeans.

    This studio pairing builds on their shared stage moments, like the Global Citizen Festival, and promises a fresh vibe blending Afrobeats flair with R&B smoothness.

  • Why I can’t speak my native Edo dialect – Toyin Abraham

    Why I can’t speak my native Edo dialect – Toyin Abraham

    Actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has revealed why she cannot speak her native Edo language despite being from Auchi, Edo State.

    Speaking with TikToker Jarvis at the premiere of the movie Ginger, Toyin revealed that her fluency in Yoruba stems from being born and raised in Yoruba land and marrying a Yoruba man.

    “I can’t speak Edo. You know I was born and brought up in Yoruba land. And I married a Yoruba man. So I’m practically Yoruba. I can’t even speak Edo. One bit. But there’s no Yoruba I can’t speak,” she explained.

    Read Also: Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham reunite at premiere, put feud rumours to rest

    Born in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, to Edo parents, Toyin grew up immersed in Yoruba culture in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    She attended Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, and later Ibadan Polytechnic before pursuing her acting career full-time.

  • Afrobeats experiencing its worst decline in 20 years – DJ Big N

    Afrobeats experiencing its worst decline in 20 years – DJ Big N

    Disc jockey Nonso Temisan Ajufo, popularly known as DJ Big N, has expressed concern over what he described as the worst decline in Afrobeats’ global influence in two decades.

    Speaking in a recent interview with Echo Room, DJ Big N blamed both artists and music executives for compromising the genre’s quality in their quest to appeal to international audiences.

    He criticised the increasing dilution of Afrobeats’ original sound, saying it has resulted in less authentic and lower-quality music that fails to connect with global listeners.

    “The uniqueness of Afrobeats is what made the world fall in love with it,” he said, stressing the need to preserve the genre’s authenticity.

    Read Also: How I survived a robbery attack in South Africa – DJ Big N

    Citing journalist Joey Akan’s views, DJ Big N argued that exporting an inauthentic product is unsustainable, noting that “no one can beat Americans at being American or making hip-hop.”

    He also highlighted the issue of rising performance fees among Afrobeats artists, which he said have made many acts unaffordable even within Nigeria.

    DJ Big N urged Nigerian artists to re-evaluate their creative direction and pricing models, warning that without a shift in approach, Afrobeats risks losing its hard-won global prominence.

    “Afrobeats right now is at its worst position in the last 20 years. And everyone, from musicians to music executives, has a part to play. The quality of music…you have to understand that the quality of the product is important in every way.

    “Joey Akan said they wanted us for our originality. Always remember that whatever you want to export has to be original, first and foremost. If you tried to export something else, it’s only a matter of time. You can’t sell Hip-Hop to Americans, that’s their genre. We have to embrace our originality,” he expressed.

  • Veteran actress ‘Iya Ile Okan’ passes on

    Veteran actress ‘Iya Ile Okan’ passes on

    Veteran Nollywood actress Iya Ile Okan has passed away, according to an announcement by actor Kunle Afod on his social media page.

    Expressing deep sorrow over her demise, Afod wrote, “We finally lost her. May her perfect soul continue to rest in peace. Iya Ile Okan. It’s a final wrap.”

    Her death comes barely two months after Afod visited her home in Ogun State, where she revealed her struggles with medical bills following a fall.

    Known for his humanitarian outreach to elderly Nollywood stars, Afod had earlier shared a video of Iya Ile Okan appealing for assistance, captioned, “Iya Ile Okan really needs God’s intervention.”

    The news of her passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues, who described her as a gifted actress and a beloved mother figure in the Nigerian film industry.

  • Chizzy Francis defends Phyna amid online backlash

    Chizzy Francis defends Phyna amid online backlash

    Reality TV star Chizzy Francis has urged people to stop attacking former Big Brother Naija winner Phyna online, following a viral video of alleged involvement in a violent altercation at an Abuja hotel.

    In a tweet, Chizzy emphasised that Phyna is human and deserves kindness and respect, especially given her recent loss of her sister.

    Chizzy acknowledged that Phyna is not above criticism but believes that online bullying will not solve anything.

    He called on the public to show empathy and understanding, reminding everyone that they don’t know what someone is going through behind closed doors.

    He wrote: “Defending PHYNA isn’t optional. She’s human, she’s grieving, and she deserves respect. Bullying her online won’t make you stronger, it’ll just show how weak you are. Choose kindness, or choose to be ignored.

    “To everyone jumping to conclusions and criticizing PHYNA let’s take a step back. We’ve all been through tough times, and we don’t know what someone’s dealing with behind closed doors. She just lost her sister, and the last thing she needs is hate. Let’s focus on spreading love and support instead. We don’t know what we’d do in her shoes. Let’s be kind.”

  • How I learned to mind my business after being beaten on set – Opebe

    How I learned to mind my business after being beaten on set – Opebe

    Actor Yomi King, popularly known as Opebe, has opened up about some of his early struggles in the movie industry, revealing that many of the beatings he received on set were not scripted but real.

    Speaking in a recent interview on Behind The Fame Podcast on YouTube, the comic actor recalled that some of his experiences during filming went far beyond acting.

    “Those sufferings were beyond acting; they were real beatings. That’s what they call acting, you have to do it well and real for people to know it truly happened. Baba Suwe doesn’t mind. Anyone that knows him well knows he will beat you directly; ask the director,” he said in Yoruba, translated to English.

    Opebe recounted one particular incident involving his colleagues Baba Suwe and Yinka Quadri, which turned serious during the production of the Yoruba movie Eku Meji.

    “A sample happened in a year, I won’t say the name of my boss Yinka Quadri, I won’t mention his name. They had a misunderstanding, real, I thought of it – that if I don’t support Baba Suwe, who would I support? Is it a stranger? I supported Baba Suwe in fighting Yinka Quadri.

    Read Also: Former Nollywood producer tours 48 states in U.S to fight homelessness

    “If he passed, I would neglect him because we were all together in Lagos. He’s like a big brother to me in Lagos. We all grew up in Lagos, do you understand? He’s a big brother. I began to support Baba Suwe.

    “Baba Suwe had a job -PM used to call actors. We wanted to do a movie called Eku Meji and we would shoot it at Meiran. Meiran was like a village, Meiran at Ijaiye -it wasn’t civilized then. 

    “That movie Eku Meji, I had a role with Yinka where he ought to fight me and beat me. And you know that Opebe is lame. And I and Yinka didn’t talk to each other. But when we got to the set, and it was a beating role, I had abused him earlier. When he replied me, it was a slap and a severe beating. I began to shout, ‘Cut! This isn’t a movie anymore.’ I was angry.”

    The actor said he soon realised the beating was personal, stemming from his decision to take sides in their earlier dispute.

    “He laughed and said, ‘In your life, you won’t interfere in people’s fights again.’ The person I supported -Baba Suwe- was laughing at me. That day, I said to myself, ‘If you abuse each other, it’s none of my business.’ Since then, I know my boundaries.”