The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • BBNAIJA: 15 influential fanbases that transformed the show

    BBNAIJA: 15 influential fanbases that transformed the show

    Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) has evolved into a cultural juggernaut, driven not just by its contestants but by the fervent fanbases that propel them to stardom.

    These dedicated supporters go beyond passive viewership, orchestrating voting campaigns, generating viral content, igniting trends, and shaping public discourse both online and offline.

    Some fanbases have also turned housemates into enduring cultural figures, extending their influence long after the show ends.

    Here’s a look at 15 key fanbases from 2017 to 2025 that have left an indelible mark on BBNaija’s legacy.

    1. Efe – Efenation
    Season 2’s Efe, the charismatic Warri native, won hearts with his “Based on Logistics” catchphrase. Efenation, coined in Week 1, became the dominant fanbase, overshadowing the smaller Efemily group. They organized street rallies in Abuja, dominated finale trends, and secured Efe’s 57.61% victory. Their support also kickstarted his brief music career, setting a standard for grassroots fan mobilization.

    2. Miracle – Miracle Fans
    Miracle’s pilot charm and versatility fueled his fanbase, #MiracleLegends. Their strategic hashtag campaigns, like #MiracleThePilot, drove his 38.17% win and amplified his post-show success, including aviation endorsements and media opportunities.

    3. Cee-C – Spartans
    The fiery Spartans kept Cee-C in the spotlight, clashing with rival Alexians. Their loyalty endured beyond the show, reportedly gifting her a house in 2023, proving fanbases can sustain a contestant’s brand for years.

    4. Tacha – Titans
    Titans tirelessly voted for Tacha during her embattled Pepper Dem season. After her eviction, they raised millions through GoFundMe and fiercely defended her online, cementing her influencer career and showcasing long-term fan devotion.

    5. Mercy Eke – Mercenaries
    Mercenaries powered Mercy Eke to victory in Pepper Dem (2019) and a runner-up spot in All Stars (2023). They fueled the #Merike ship, reportedly gifting her an SUV and funding trips, establishing a gold standard for fan loyalty and strategy.

    6. Laycon – Icons
    Icons transformed Laycon’s underdog story in Lockdown into a cultural wave. They set up physical voting stations with free Wi-Fi, securing a record-breaking 60% of final votes. Their efforts turned songs like Fierce into hits, showing how fans can drive lasting industry success.

    7. Erica – Elites
    Despite Erica’s disqualification, Elites sustained her relevance through campaigns and memes, fueling rivalries and bolstering her acting and social media career, highlighting fan resilience amid controversy.

    8. White Money – Whitemoney Gang
    Whitemoney Gang rallied behind White Money’s culinary flair and humor in Shine Ya Eye, ensuring his safety from eviction and boosting his online presence. They continue to promote his music and appearances.

    9. Liquorose – Lions/LiquoLions
    Initially drawn to her dance skills, Lions elevated Liquorose to diva status, maintaining her public profile long after the show.

    10. Phyna – Phynation
    Phynation’s support for Phyna’s raw energy and authenticity led to her Level Up win. Their backing continues to fuel her endorsements, reflecting the power of street-savvy fanbases.

    11. Wanni x Handi – EnergySquad
    EnergySquad rallied behind the energetic twin DJs Wanni and Handi in the No Loose Guard season, drawn to their high-energy performances, DJ skills, and vibrant personalities. They dominated social media trends with hashtags like #WannixHandi and #EnergySquad, mobilising votes and creating memes that kept the duo in the spotlight, helping Wanni reach runner-up.

    12. Kellyrae and Kassia – DoubleKay 
    DoubleKay fans championed the married couple Kellyrae and Kassia in No Loose Guard, celebrating their strategic gameplay, love story, and resilience. Through coordinated voting and management-directed campaigns prioritising Kellyrae’s win, they ensured high poll performances and propelled him to victory with 35.95% of votes.

    13. Imisi – Imistars (Ijoba 606)
    Imistars are ruling Season 10 with their love for Imisi’s wit and unique style. Active across X, Facebook, and TikTok, they’ve boosted her Instagram following to hundreds of thousands, driving real-time voting and engagement.

    14. Koyin – Koyinator
    Koyinator’s humor, memes, and relentless engagement keep Koyin trending, elevating his fashion and modeling career while proving fanbases remain pivotal in shaping BBNaija narratives.

    15. Dede – Devass
    Devass, the dedicated supporters of Dede (Precious Ashiogwu) in Season 10, have rallied with intense energy, dominating trends and polls.

    These fanbases are more than just supporters, they are cultural forces, mobilising votes, creating viral moments, and driving conversations.

    As BBNaija captivates Nigeria and its diaspora, these groups continue to shape its enduring legacy.

  • Visa issues disrupted my Tanzania concert – Moses Bliss

    Visa issues disrupted my Tanzania concert – Moses Bliss

    Gospel singer Moses Bliss has expressed disappointment over his recent cancelled visit to Tanzania, which was scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025.

    Bliss was billed to perform at a concert in Tanzania, which drew over 60,000 people.

    In a statement on Instagram, he said despite weeks of preparation and assurance from the organising team that his team’s visas were in order, they were denied entry into the country at the last minute.

    However, due to the visa issues, the concert was ultimately cancelled.

    Moses Bliss apologised to the Tanzanian fans, pointing that the delay was not their fault and expressed gratitude for their love and patience.

    The singer revealed that his team had invested significant time, energy, and resources into the concert, which was meant to be free for everyone.

    He promised to reschedule the concert, reinstating God’s promise to make all things beautiful in His time. 

    The statement reads: “I have been overwhelmed with emotions since hearing that over maybe 60,000 of you gathered last night with eager hearts, ready to worship Jesus together with me. The thought that such a great multitude came out for this encounter with God leaves me humbled and broken, knowing I could not be there physically as planned.

    Read Also: Moses Bliss denies involvement in Cotonou concert

    “I want you to hear the truth directly from me. My team and I were scheduled to fly from Nairobi into Tanzania on the 2nd of October after a successful program in the stadium in Kenya. Bags were packed, instruments ready, and our hearts burning with anticipation. But at the airport, to our deepest shock, we discovered that our visas had not been released, despite weeks of assurance from the organizing team in Tanzania that the approvals were already in place.

    “From that moment, we did not relent. We mobilized every contact possible, leaders across Tanzania, friends across Africa, and even sought Presidential intervention. We were told, time after time, that the visas had been “approved,” only for another excuse to follow: that the officer in charge of issuing them was not on seat, or that emails had not been sent yet. For two days straight, I remained at the airport, waiting in faith, hoping that at any moment the approvals would come and we travel. But each hour ended with disappointment.

    “We were even instructed to proceed with our flight and assured that the visas would be granted on arrival. Trusting those words, we boarded and landed in Dar es Salaam at midnight, while the program was already ongoing. To our deepest pain, immigration did not permit us entry into the nation.

    “This was not just painful for me personally, it was heartbreaking for my entire team, who had invested their energy, prayers, and preparation into this divine assignment. Beyond that, hundreds of thousands of dollars were
    invested to make this concert absolutely free for everyone, because our hearts was to see the whole nation worship without barrier.

    “Tanzania, please hear me, you were not at fault. You came out in numbers, ready for God, and that moves me deeply. I have cried, prayed, and wrestled with this disappointment, but one thing I know, our God makes all things beautiful in His time.

    “I owe you not just an apology, but a promise; by God’s grace, I will return. This setback will only pave the way for an even greater outpouring of His glory when we finally gather in Tanzania.

    “From my heart to yours, I say thank you for your patience, your love, and your unwavering faith. The delay may hurt, but it will not deny us the encounter God has destined”.

  • Bobrisky rejects pork meat at foreign restaurant

    Bobrisky rejects pork meat at foreign restaurant

    Controversial crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has once again stirred reactions online after a recent interaction with a waiter at a foreign restaurant.

    Bobrisky, who has been living abroad since his release from prison, shared a short video on his TikTok page showing his dining experience at a restaurant reportedly located in the United Kingdom.

    In the viral video, the cross dresser was seen placing his order while informing the waiter that he does not eat bacon (pork) or mushrooms due to his religious beliefs as a Muslim.

    He then requested for fish instead .

    “I don’t want bacon (pork) or mushrooms because I’m Muslim. I don’t eat it,” he said while ordering his meal.

    The video has since attracted mixed reactions from social media users.

    Some users questioned Bobrisky’s lifestyle choices, others expressed their opinions through faith based and cultural lenses.

    One user commented, “My question is, is this how Bobrisky plans to live for the rest of his or her life?”

    Another wrote, “I don’t eat pork because I’m Muslim, but I can be transgender because the Qur’an told me to, right?”

    A third user added, “You claim to be Muslim but only follow the food restrictions. What you’re doing is far worse than that.”

    The video continues to generate significant online debate, highlighting ongoing conversations about identity, religion, and societal values in Nigeria’s digital space.

  • I’m tired of clubbing, Tolanibaj teases marriage plans

    I’m tired of clubbing, Tolanibaj teases marriage plans

    Reality TV star Tolanibaj has confessed to being over the nightlife scene and is ready to explore marriage.

    In a video, she admitted to being forced to enjoy clubbing and the loud music and dancing no longer excite her.

    TolaniBaj stated that she’s looking for excitement in her life and believes marriage might bring her the fulfillment she’s seeking.

    She said: “I gotta start being honest with myself. I no longer enjoy clubbing. I keep forcing it, bruh. I keep forcing it. I wanna see if I can experience some kind of excitement. I need excitement in my life.

    “I’m tired of clubbing. I don’t wanna be outside doing what? What am I looking for outside if I have a partner? Like, what the f- be outside to get a shot maybe traveling or something but like i’m done forcing clubbing man i don’t feel like pretending to be having fun in the club anymore like”.

    She humorously stated she’d consider getting married for a short period, just to see if she’d like it.

    “I think it’s time to get married yeah i want to see if i can get married for like two days just to see if i like it that’s a scary commitment y’all like how am i not sure that after one month i will not start saying yeah,” she added.

  • I am not dating another rapper again – Nadia Nakai

    I am not dating another rapper again – Nadia Nakai

    South African TV personality and rapper Nadia Nakai, who was in a relationship with the late hip-hop star AKA, has claimed that she has no intention of dating another rapper or anyone in the entertainment industry.

    In an exclusive interview with Fresh Men Magazine, Nakai reflected on the devastating loss of her late boyfriend, Kiernan “AKA” Forbes, and its lasting impact on her life.

    She revealed that the experience has reshaped her outlook on love and privacy, leading her to keep future relationships away from the public eye to protect her peace and healing journey.

    She said : “I will not date another rapper or anybody in the [entertainment] industry ever again. I never want to do that again,”

    Read Also: Laide Bakare clarifies teenage daughter’s clubbing controversy, denies alcohol claims

    she further said: “I want to have a very private relationship. I don’t want it to be public because if he had to die, that experience was terrible for me.

    “I didn’t like having to explain my pain to strangers at the airport. I don’t want to explain nonsense to people on social media. So, I will never date a rapper or anybody in the public eye.” She added .

    AKA was tragically shot and killed on February 10, 2023, outside a restaurant in Durban, South Africa.

    The award winning musician was in the city for a scheduled nightclub performance when two assailants approached and opened fire at close range.

    The heartbreaking incident, which many believe was a planned attack, deeply saddened people across Africa’s entertainment scene and beyond.

    Police have arrested several suspects, but the case is still being carefully investigated.

  • Separation from husband redefined my life – Toluwani Odukoya

    Separation from husband redefined my life – Toluwani Odukoya

    Associate Pastor of The Fountain of Life Church, Toluwani Odukoya, has shared the journey of separation from the husband, a period she said significantly shaped her life.

    In a recent interview with Truthtable, Toluwani revealed that she is separated due to circumstances beyond her control, describing the experience as akin to a death.

    The 40-year-old emphasised that separation doesn’t necessarily imply failure or fault on either side.

    “I’ll say I’m separated. Most of you don’t know I’m separated and that’s actually defined or has shaped my life. It was circumstances beyond my control,” she said.

    She praised her ex-husband, calling him a “great man,” and believes that their marriage wasn’t ordained by God, making it difficult to last.

    “My ex-husband is a great man… but if God doesn’t ordain you guys to be together and you force-fit yourselves, the likelihood of staying together is very low,” she explained.

    She stated the past few years have been particularly trying for her, marked by a series of family tragedies.

    She lost her stepmother, her father’s twin sister, and eventually, her father, Senior Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, who passed away on August 7, 2023.

    Through her struggles, Toluwani said she has leaned heavily on her faith and found solace in her family’s support.

    “When the call came, I told God, ‘You know all the baggage I’m trying to navigate. But if You call me to serve, then maybe you’ve put something in me.’ I just decided to keep my eyes on Jesus,” she recounted.

    Support from her family, particularly her late father and her siblings, played a pivotal role in helping her stay grounded during those challenging years. “My dad fought for me. My family encouraged me. That embrace added to my self-esteem and self-worth,” she said.

    The Odukoya family has been at the heart of The Fountain of Life Church since its founding.

    After the passing of Pastor Taiwo Odukoya in the United States, his son, Jimmy Odukoya, succeeded him as the Senior Pastor, serving alongside Toluwani in leadership.

  • Laide Bakare clarifies teenage daughter’s clubbing controversy, denies alcohol claims

    Laide Bakare clarifies teenage daughter’s clubbing controversy, denies alcohol claims

    Actress Laide Bakare has addressed the controversy surrounding the recent comments about introducing her 17-year-old daughter to nightlife.

    In an interview with content creator Mr. Lilgaga, Laide revealed that she took her daughter to a club for the first time at 17, expressing pride the daughter would remember her as the one who introduced her to such experiences.

    She said: “I took my daughter to the club for the first time at 17. And I like the fact that in her memoir, she would reference me as the person who introduced her to alcohol and clubbing.”

    Her remarks triggered widespread criticism, with many online condemning the actress for seemingly endorsing alcohol consumption and clubbing for a minor.

    In response, Laide took to Instagram on Saturday to clarify her stance.

    She emphasised that she did not introduce her daughter to alcohol, only to the club environment, as a way to give her controlled exposure to nightlife in preparation for adulthood.

    She wrote, “No pls, I didn’t do Alcohol with @simlineboss only club and it’s just to give her a bit of exposure towards the future. I’m not as bad as you think. Don’t forget she is still a minor. A teenager with robust figure”.

  • Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentenced to more than four years in prison

    Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentenced to more than four years in prison

    The hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was sentenced to more than four years in prison on Friday for his conviction on prostitution-related charges.

    Prosecutors had sought 11 years behind bars for Combs but Judge Arun Subramanian handed down a 50-month sentence after an emotional daylong court hearing.

    Combs’s lawyers had urged the judge to sentence the 55-year-old hip-hop star to 14 months, which would effectively have been time served since he has been incarcerated in Brooklyn for more than a year.

    Addressing the court before the judge handed down the sentence, Combs said he was “truly sorry” for his actions and asked the judge for “another chance.”

    “I ask your honour for mercy,” he said. “I beg your honour for mercy.”

    Diddy Combs was acquitted by a jury in July of the most serious charges against him — sex trafficking and racketeering — but convicted of two counts of transporting people across state lines for prostitution.

    Combs’s former girlfriend Casandra Ventura submitted a letter to the judge asking him to consider “the many lives that Sean Combs has upended with his abuse and control.”

    Ventura, the 39-year-old singer known as Cassie, described in wrenching detail the physical, emotional and sexual abuse she suffered while in a more than decade-long relationship with Combs.

    Ventura and another woman, identified as Jane, said they were coerced into performing so-called “freak offs”: sexual marathons with hired men that Combs directed and sometimes filmed.

    “The entire courtroom watched actual footage of Combs kicking and beating me as I tried to run away from a freak off in 2016,” Ventura wrote.

    Read Also: Seyi Shay shocks fans with Illuminati confession

    She said she has nightmares and flashbacks “on a regular, everyday basis.”

    Ventura said she and her family had left the New York area for fear of “retribution” from Combs if he is released.

    Speaking before the sentencing, prosecutor Christy Slavik said Combs has not accepted responsibility for his actions.

    “His remorse was qualified. It’s as though he thinks the law doesn’t apply to him,” Slavik said.

    Slavik said Combs had booked speaking engagements in Miami next week in anticipation of a light sentence, which she called “the height of hubris.”

    Arguing for a lesser sentence, Nicole Westmoreland, one of Combs’s lawyers, called him an “inspiration” to the Black community and a social justice crusader.

    “No, Combs is not larger than life,” she said. “He’s just a human being. He’s made mistakes.”

    But he is remorseful and “it’s of no benefit to anyone to warehouse him in a prison.”

    Combs’s six adult children each delivered an emotional plea on their father’s behalf, with the eldest Quincy Brown calling him “a changed man.”

    “Please, please give our family the chance to heal together,” said one of his daughters, D’Lila Combs. “Not as headlines but as human beings.”

  • Seyi Shay shocks fans with Illuminati confession

    Seyi Shay shocks fans with Illuminati confession

    Singer and songwriter Seyi Shay has stirred reactions after disclosing that she was once a member of the Illuminati.

    The revelation came during her appearance on the OffAir Podcast with Gbemi and Toolz, where the “Right Now” crooner openly admitted to joining the controversial group.

    “That’s when I was in the Illuminati. That’s when I joined the Illuminati,” she said, sparking wide conversations online.

    Read Also: Olamide Olayinka taps experience in pageantry, banking to launch Ajoké Prestige

    Seyi Shay added that contrary to popular belief, it is not fans who know the most about such affiliations but insiders in the entertainment industry, suggesting that much goes on behind the scenes that the public may not be aware of.

    Her comments quickly went viral, drawing mixed responses. While some listeners doubted her claim, others applauded her for speaking candidly about a topic often wrapped in secrecy and conspiracy theories.

    Clips of the interview have been widely circulated on social media but the full context of her statements has yet to be released.

  • OSAS IGHODARO: Relocating to Nigeria my boldest risk

    OSAS IGHODARO: Relocating to Nigeria my boldest risk

    Award-winning actress and producer, Osas Ighodaro, is extending her influence beyond the screen. Recently named one of the 10 Gatekeeper Champions by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for her work through the JoyfulJoy Foundation, Osas is combining star power with social impact. In this interview with ADENIYI ADEWOYIN, she speaks on turning personal loss into advocacy, her Nollywood journey, and her global aspirations.

    Our foundation, JoyfulJoy, was recently named among 10 global Gatekeepers Champions by the Gates Foundation. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

    This recognition is deeply humbling. Personally, it affirms the years of passion and sacrifice behind the JoyfulJoy Foundation. Professionally, it validates our work on a global stage and opens new doors for collaboration to create even greater impact.

    The foundation has been running for 13 years. Looking back, what were the toughest early challenges, and what keeps you motivated to sustain the vision today?

    The toughest early challenge was convincing people that a small foundation could make a big difference. Limited resources and scepticism were real hurdles. What keeps me motivated today is the lives we’ve touched who no longer have to fear malaria. That hope fuels me every day.

    The foundation was born from a personal tragedy — the loss of your sister to malaria. How have you turned that pain into purpose, and in what ways has the foundation prevented other families from going through the same?

    Losing my sister to malaria remains the most painful moment of my life. But that tragedy ignited my resolve to ensure fewer families endure the same. Over the years, we’ve distributed thousands of mosquito nets, run awareness campaigns, and supported healthcare programs that have reduced preventable deaths. Each saved life honours her memory.

    When you see Nigeria still battling malaria after decades, what thoughts come to mind? Do you believe enough is being done by the government and stakeholders?

    It’s heartbreaking that malaria still claims lives after decades. Government and stakeholders are making efforts, but more can be done, especially in community education, stronger healthcare systems, and equitable access to preventive tools. Collaboration is key if we are to win this battle.

    You recently co-executive-produced a movie with Burna Boy and his mother, Bose Ogulu. Can you tell us about the project and why it is significant to you?

    That project was powerful because it merged art with advocacy. Storytelling through film is a way to spark conversations beyond borders. Working with Burna Boy and his mother was inspiring; they bring creativity and vision that align with my own passion for meaningful projects.

    You share a warm bond with Burna Boy’s family. How did that relationship begin, and what lessons have you picked up from working with them?

    Our relationship grew organically from mutual respect. They’ve taught me that success is rooted in discipline, authenticity, and never forgetting where you come from.

    Read Also: Niniola sparks pregnancy buzz with baby bump video

    As both an actress and a producer, how do you balance the creative and business sides of film? Which role stretches you more?

    Acting stretches my emotions, while producing stretches my strategy. Balancing both is challenging but rewarding. I’ve learned that telling stories requires both heart and structure.

    You are often celebrated as one of Nollywood’s most admired women, not just for your beauty but also for your depth in roles. How important is fitness and mental well-being in helping you deliver powerful performances?

    Fitness and mental health are non-negotiables for me. They give me the energy, clarity, and emotional depth to fully embody the characters I play.

    You once said relocating to Nigeria was a blessing. Beyond fame, what exactly made it a blessing and what sacrifices have you had to make to stay grounded here?

    Nigeria gave me a deeper sense of purpose. It’s not just about fame, it’s about connection, culture, and contributing to home. The sacrifices? Privacy, and sometimes, comfort. But the blessings outweigh them.

    Nollywood is growing globally. In your view, what must the industry do differently to compete with Hollywood and Bollywood on the world stage?

    Nollywood must invest more in training, distribution, and storytelling that resonates universally while staying authentic. We already have the talent and creativity; now it’s about increased infrastructure and vision.

    Many fans see the glamour, but what’s one side of Osas Ighodaro that people rarely get to see?

    People often see the glam, but I’m actually quite goofy and down-to-earth. My close circle knows me as someone who loves to laugh and just be myself.

    If you weren’t an actress, what would Osas be doing today?

    I’d probably be in public health or philanthropy full-time. My passion has always been to help people and spread joy.

    What does happiness mean to you at this stage of your life and career?

    Happiness for me is balance: being present with my daughter, pursuing meaningful work, and staying grounded in faith and gratitude.

    As a mother, actress, philanthropist, and producer, how do you navigate balance without losing yourself?

    I don’t have it all figured out, but I prioritise what matters most in each season. I’ve learned to give myself grace.

    What would you say has been your boldest career risk so far, and did it pay off?

    Relocating to Nigeria and chasing my dreams was my boldest risk. It was scary, but it is paying off beautifully.

    You’ve worked across Nigeria and the US. How has that shaped your outlook on life, culture, and even the roles you choose?

    It’s given me a global lens. I see the strengths in both cultures, and it helps me choose roles that bridge worlds and tell richer stories.

    What’s the one message you hope your daughter takes away from watching your life and career?

    I hope she learns that strength and kindness go hand in hand and that she can achieve anything she puts her heart into. 

    Where do you see yourself and the JoyfulJoy Foundation in the next decade?

    In the next decade, I see us scaling to more countries, innovating with technology for healthcare delivery, and continuing to inspire global action against preventable diseases. And above all, I pray that by then malaria will be alleviated, and we will live in a world finally free from its grip.