The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Ned Nwoko threatens legal action against online defamers

    Ned Nwoko threatens legal action against online defamers

    Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has issued an official statement accusing unnamed individuals of orchestrating a coordinated campaign of online harassment, cyber-stalking, and criminal defamation against him.

    In the statement released on Thursday by his communications team, Senator Nwoko described the recent surge in defamatory videos and publications as “calculated to create a false narrative of persecution to serve ulterior motives.”

    He maintained that he remains fully focused on his legislative and developmental duties and has no interest in “online distractions or fabricated drama.”

    He warned that the growing trend of weaponising public sympathy to shield alleged wrongdoers poses a danger to national values.

    The statement reads, “Our attention has been drawn to a renewed pattern of online harassment, cyber stalking, and coordinated defamatory videos and publications targeted at Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko.

    “These actions appear calculated to create a false narrative of persecution in order to serve ulterior motives.

    “Senator Ned is fully engaged in his legislative, developmental, and business responsibilities and maintains no interest whatsoever in online distractions or fabricated drama. However, when grave allegations are made, they must be addressed in accordance with the law, not through misinformation or emotional manipulation.

    “We must caution the public that the growing culture of supporting deviant conduct, shielding wrongdoers, and attempting to weaponize public sympathy is damaging to our national values. Today, falsehood may be deployed against one individual; tomorrow, it may be directed at anyone.

    “Accordingly, Senator Ned has instructed his lawyer to file a petition with the Inspector General of Police, Director General DSS, and the Commissioner of Police (Cyber Crime Unit) to investigate and prosecute those responsible for ongoing cyber harassment and criminal Defamation. The relevant digital footprints will be traced, and lawful action will be pursued.

    “Furthermore, the United States Government and the United Kingdom are respectfully urged to note that attempts to stage artificial drama around a stable family structure for the purpose of gaining undue advantage are unacceptable. If any frivolous grounds are being put forward to seek asylum, such manoeuvres should be discountenanced. Authorities are encouraged to rely on verified facts and legal processes rather than sensationalized narratives designed to mislead.

    “Nigerians are encouraged to disregard the false narratives being circulated and allow proper legal processes to proceed. The Senator remains focused on his work and continues to uphold dignity, responsibility, and due process.”

  • Digital playlists shape music trends but can’t replace artist–audience connection — Udeh

    Digital playlists shape music trends but can’t replace artist–audience connection — Udeh

    The Nigerian entertainment industry has continued to evolve through different technological eras, from cassettes to radio dominance and now the age of music streaming. Yet, one constant remains: the strong competition for audience attention.

    Entertainment enthusiast Stanley Udeh, in an interview, said the industry is witnessing a significant shift as many Nigerian artistes increasingly rely on digital playlists rather than traditional promotional avenues such as radio airplay, media interviews, print features, and live appearances.

    According to him, playlists on platforms like Spotify, Audiomack, Apple Music, and Boomplay have become key drivers of visibility.

    He noted that a feature on playlists such as “New Music Friday Naija,” “African Heat,” or “Afrobeats Hits” can propel an artiste to instant recognition, sometimes achieving more impact than prolonged radio rotation.

    “These platforms have opened up global access,” he said, explaining that artistes can now upload music from anywhere and reach millions. However, he cautioned that the fast rise often comes with an equally fast decline.

    He noted that songs that gain quick traction on playlists can fade just as rapidly once algorithms refresh or playlist line-ups change. This, he said, creates pressure on artistes to consistently release new material to stay relevant.

    “Digital playlists offer visibility but not always longevity. The connection with listeners is often brief,” Udeh added.

    He observed that in the race for digital visibility, many artistes are sidelining traditional promotional activities that once helped build their identity. Interviews, radio tours, magazine features, and community performances, he said, played a crucial role in helping fans connect with artistes on a personal level.

    Without this foundation, Udeh warned, artistes risk becoming “faceless names” whose songs may trend but whose brands fail to endure.

    He emphasised that the industry’s future depends on balancing digital reach with genuine audience connection.

    “Digital playlists open the door, but traditional promotion builds the house,” he said, adding that artistes who want not just hits but lasting impact must embrace new digital tools while maintaining the human touch that has long fuelled the entertainment industry’s vibrancy.

  • Self-prioritisation is my focus now – Olamide

    Self-prioritisation is my focus now – Olamide

    Music executive and rapper Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide Baddo, has announced a shift in focus towards personal growth and self-care.

    In a recent interview on Flow 98.7FM, Olamide revealed that he is currently prioritising his own well-being, marking a departure from his long-standing habit of prioritising the needs of others.

    He said, “Right now, I’m at the phase in my life where I’m really trying to give myself undivided attention.

    Read Also: I have helped more in the industry than Olamide, Don Jazzy, others – Portable claims

    “All my life, I’ve been trying to be there for people and also trying to do my stuff. But right now, I’m really just trying to focus on myself 100 percent.”

    As the founder of YBNL, Adedeji has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous artists, including Lil Kesh, Young John, and Asake.

    His collaborations with notable artists such as Zlatan Ibile and Naira Marley have also contributed to his influential status in the music industry.

  • I have helped more in the industry than Olamide, Don Jazzy, others – Portable claims

    I have helped more in the industry than Olamide, Don Jazzy, others – Portable claims

    Controversial singer Portable has claimed to have provided more assistance to individuals in the music industry than prominent artists Olamide, Don Jazzy, Wizkid, and Davido.

    The Zazu crooner emphasised that his philanthropic efforts extend beyond the music sector, targeting the less privileged and ordinary people.

    According to Portable, many Nigerian celebrities are egoistic and fail to acknowledge their fans, whereas he freely associates with people and promotes them on social media.

    He said, “Many Nigerian celebrities don’t post their fans even if they dance to their songs or promote them. But I repost every positive video about me.

    “Even with your money, many celebrities won’t let you feature them as an upcoming artist. But I help people freely. I have helped more people in the music industry than Don Jazzy, Olamide, Wizkid, and Davido.”

    Portable defined “help” as providing comprehensive support, including shelter, clothing, food, and studio sessions, distinguishing this from mere business transactions.

    Read Also: I’m laid back, not shy, Olamide clarifies misconception

    “Help is when you see a homeless person and take them home, shelter them, clothe and feed them. You also take them to their first studio session and pay for it. Anything other than that, you are just doing business. A lot of the people claiming that they are helping others in the music industry are just doing business,” he added.

    He criticised celebrities who exploit others for personal gain and label them “ungrateful” when they seek independence.

    “Most of the time, when the artists they are using for business decide to be independent or move forward, they label them ungrateful. How are they ungrateful? You only used them for business”, he concluded.

  • Actress Bisola Badmus celebrates birthday as she survives brain tumor

    Actress Bisola Badmus celebrates birthday as she survives brain tumor

    Actress Bisola Badmus is marking her birthday by reflecting on her battle with a brain tumor diagnosed in 2022.

    In an Instagram post, she expressed gratitude to God for intervention and mercy, saying she’s now hale and hearty.

    Bisola described the experience as one she wouldn’t wish on her enemy, thanking God for seeing her through.

    She appreciated the people who stood by her, including her son Abdul Malik who “stayed strong and firm during these trying times”.

    “Owo re ni mo ri. Owo re ni mo ri, igba ti aye danmiwo owo re ni mo ri. I will forever be indebted to God Almighty for his mercy, grace, favour, blessings and eternal peace. All I have to say is thank you, agbanilagbatan

    “When life challenges came God proved himself to me in many ways the devil tried indeed but my God said no do not touch my annoited and do my prophet no harm oluwaseun, Olohun modupe o

    “It all started in 2022 when this illness came knockin’. Hmmmm, I thought it was a joke, not until I was diagnosed with (BRAIN TUMOR) Hmmmm. That took all I ever worked for, if not for GOD IT almost took my life but Alhamdulillah robilhalemin. All thanks to God Almighty for his intervention (this is not an experience I will ever wish anyone not even my enemy).

    Read Also: Actress Temitope Osoba celebrates 40th birthday as cancer survivor

    “Amo Adupe Aye ope yo. I’m hale and hearty now. Which is why I’m here today to show my gratitude to GOD who never fails

    “And to all the good people GOD sent that stood by me during these trying times ahhh Ese modupe oooo. I can’t thank you all enough. I can’t even start mentioning. God knows and sees you all. (Mio ni fi iru e san fun yin ooo)

    To my family, friends & colleagues. Ese modupe and to my adorable son

    ABDUL MALIK OLASUNKANMI AYINDE MARSHAL for staying strong and firm during these trying times hmmm ko easy o. Oh my beloved son may God grant me long life in sound health so as to take round the world thank you my LOVE thank you for showing me how much I mean to you. IKU OJIJI KONI GBA E MOMI LOWO ABDUL MALIK. OSE OKOMI. To all the people who supported with funds abudi lagbara olohun oba. Ese modupe

    “It was a lot o. A lot went down the drain, but we thank God for his infinite mercy and intervention

    “I’m grateful to God for giving me the opportunity and grace to witness another year alive among the living and not among the dead.

    “I am grateful for he restored all lost hopes. He replenished me in unexpected ways. Even tho OJU APA KOLE DABI OJU ARA. Oluwaseun. I’m grateful still

    “PLS LOVERS OF ADUNNI ADUNBARINMATOSHI. THANK GOD ON MY BEHALF. BCOS I’M A LIVING TESTIMONY OF WHAT GOD CAN NOT DO DOES NOT EXIST.

    “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME. ABISOLA ADUNNI ADUNBARINMATOSHI ENI O”.

  • Stella Damasus receives husband’s posthumous award, vows to keep his legacy alive

    Stella Damasus receives husband’s posthumous award, vows to keep his legacy alive

    Actress Stella Damasus has made a promise to keep her late husband Jaiye Aboderin’s legacy alive after receiving a posthumous award on his behalf at the AMAN awards.

    In an Instagram post, Damasus shared a video of herself and their daughters accepting the award, expressing gratitude for the recognition.

    She recalled her late husband fondly, saying she’s proud of their daughters and misses him dearly.

    “21 years later, and we will continue to keep your legacy alive. I know you’d be so proud of how the girls have turned out. I give all glory to God because He genuinely gave us two amazing, beautiful, intelligent, and supportive girls. Jaiyejeje Aboderin, we love you forever, and we miss you so much. May his soul continue to rest in peace.

    Read Also: Stella Damasus’ ex-husband Ademinokan refutes actress’ divorce claims

    “Thank you to @amanawards for honouring him with this posthumous award”.

    Two years ago, Stella marked the 19th anniversary of Jaiye’s passing.

    She called him several sweet names, describing him as her heartbeat and the father of her children.

    She revealed that her heart stopped when she lost him, but he had to start beating again for the sake of their daughters. 

  • I’m only scared of poverty not death – Peter Okoye

    I’m only scared of poverty not death – Peter Okoye

    Award-winning singer Peter Okoye popularly known as Mr P, has revealed his biggest fear is poverty and being broke.

    In a recent interview on Nancy Isime show, Mr P stated he’s not afraid of death, but the thought of returning to a life of poverty terrifies him.

    Recounting his childhood, Mr P shared that his family’s single-room apartment was demolished after the landlord sold the property.

    He described living with his parents and siblings in a boys’ quarter, with six boys and two girls sharing a one-bedroom apartment divided by a curtain.

    Read Also: Peter Okoye reacts after U.S. waitress criticises $60 tip

    Mr P emphasised that he’s experienced poverty firsthand and has no desire to return to it. 

    He said, “I am not afraid of death. The only thing I am afraid of in this life is poverty, of being broke.

    “I have tasted it [poverty] before. I have been in our house with my parents and siblings and a bulldozer came and demolished it.

    “We were living in a boys’ quarter, me, my mum, my dad, all of us. The whole family, six boys and two girls living in a one-bedroom apartment. They had to divide the room with a curtain. So, the landlord had sold the compound, we were trying to plead to get some time to plan our relocation and then a bulldozer came and started demolishing the house while we were still in the building.”

  • AY Comedian warns against fake friends exploiting negative news

    AY Comedian warns against fake friends exploiting negative news

    Comedian AY has raised concerns about individuals who pretend to be friends but secretly seek to capitalise on others’ misfortunes for personal gain.

    In a social media post, AY Comedian expressed concern about people who quickly jump on negative news to gain attention and monetization, stating, “Beware of anyone who calls you a friend yet rushes to jump on any negative news about you just to trend and gain monetization.

    “Not everyone around you wishes you well. May God protect us from friends who are truly enemies in disguise. Their karma is never far.”

  • Ajofé releases new single “HALLE” under Roc Nation

    Ajofé releases new single “HALLE” under Roc Nation

    Nigerian-American Afro-Groove/Afro-Swing artist ajofé is cutting through the noise with his new single “HALLE”, a dark, haunting record that sits at the intersection of pain, spirituality, and street reality.

    Distributed globally by Roc Nation, the track quietly places ajofé’s most vulnerable work yet on a world-class platform without diluting its rawness.

    Far from a typical praise-infused Afrobeats track, “HALLE” pulls listeners into the emotional aftermath of real-life trauma.

    Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, ajofé explains that the title itself is intentionally provocative.

    “Sometimes ‘hallelujah’ no be victory shout, na survival,” he says. “It’s that moment when you’re saying ‘halle o’ just to stay sane, not because things are actually okay,” he said.

    Read Also: Wande Coal teases new single ‘Dem Go Pay’

    Across the track, he paints vivid pictures of loss, betrayal, spiritual manipulation and the way people are often told to simply “pray it away” while silently falling apart. The hook – “Halle Halle o / e be like say dem see me for mumu / e be like say dem hold me with juju / I dey cry and e dey répète” – feels more like a breakdown than a celebration.

    “I wanted the hook to sound like a chant you repeat when you don’t know what else to say,” ajofé shares. “You’re tired, but you’re still talking to God. You’re confused, but you’re still here. That tension is where ‘HALLE’ lives.”

    With previous releases like “TOWN BOY.” “BADDERMAN.” “IHENEME. (REMIX)” and “SERERE.” ajofé has built a reputation for blending heavy themes with groove. “HALLE” pushes that further, stripping back the gloss and leaving the raw emotion in plain view.

    “I’m not trying to sanitize our reality,” he adds. “If music is honest, it should be allowed to sit in the dark for a while too.”

    For an artist operating in his own lane, that combination of unfiltered storytelling and Roc Nation-backed distribution positions “HALLE” as both a deeply personal statement and a record ready for global ears.

  • How 2008 Headies win launched my stardom – MI Abaga

    How 2008 Headies win launched my stardom – MI Abaga

    Rapper MI Abaga has credited his win at the 2008 Headies Awards as a pivotal moment in his career, catapulting him to stardom.

    Abaga, who took home the ‘Best Rap Single’ award, recalled being overlooked on the red carpet, with people asking him to move aside for Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde’s photo shoot.

    However, he said his fortunes changed dramatically after the win.

    He said, “I have been grinding, and no one cares about who I am, and in February 2008, I was announced as the winner for ‘Best Rap Single,’ and literally my life changed that day. I remember I was walking into the crowd with my manager, and as we were walking in, Omotola came in with her security.

    “The people on the red carpet did not even know I was nominated, so they were just like ‘common get out of here’. So we went to stand at one other corner, and because Omotola was moving from side to side to take her picture, they kept chasing us from place to place.

    The award led to a string of hits, including ‘Safe’, ‘Talk About It’, and ‘Incredible Music’, solidifying Abaga’s position in the Nigerian music scene.

    “I was just looking at stardom, and two hours later, I had an award in my hand, a gold plaque from Ayo Animashaun, and after that plaque, everybody was like ‘MI is in the game’. After that, it was ‘Safe’, ‘Talk About It’ and ‘Incredible Music’”, he added.