Singer Spyro has expressed his frustration with the challenges of being a celebrity in Lagos.

He shared a personal experience in which he was insulted by a man whom he had promised to help the next day because he did not have the means.

Spyro revealed that he spends a minimum of N100,000 whenever he leaves his house and estimated that he spends around N15 million annually on helping others.

He explained that he faces constant demands for financial assistance, whether in public, at church, or even online.

The singer expressed his appreciation for his colleagues who face similar challenges, calling them the “real MVPs.”
He wrote on Instagram: “It’s really hard being a celebrity in Lagos. I told a guy I didn’t have anything and would see him the next day. He rained insults on me. Every day I step out of my house, I spend a minimum of N100k on gifts. Now let’s do the maths: let’s say I go out three times a week, that’s N300k per week, making N1.2m per month, and that’s about N15 million a year, Kilode.

“If I enter a restaurant, the bill waits for me outside; I enter the church, the same thing… Enter the estate, the same; carry phone enter online, na the same thing.

“Everybody wants to take, but nobody wants to give, and nobody thinks about how you are faring.

“S/O to every one of my colleagues out there going through this; you’re all the real MVPs and I celebrate you.”

Controversial artist Portable has voiced his support for Burna Boy amidst the ongoing rift between the Grammy-winning singer and Cubana Chief Priest, a close ally of Davido.

In a social media post, Portable shared a photo of Burna Boy, hailing him as “bigger than the rest” and applauding his authenticity.

He commended Burna Boy for not living a “fake life.”

Portable’s endorsement followed Burna Boy’s recent remarks, where he took a jab at an unnamed colleague for leading a fake lifestyle—comments widely speculated to target either Davido or Cubana Chief Priest.

Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Terseer Waya, popularly known as Kiddwaya, has revealed plans to launch a music career.

According to the 31-year-old reality star, he intends to utilise his father’s wealth to collaborate with top artists in the industry.

Kiddwaya shared his intentions on his X handle, stating,“Maybe I should enter this music business aswell. Popsi is rich so we go just hire the best of everyone. Make I kuku see wetin sup.”

This move follows a trend of Nigerian reality stars transitioning into music after gaining fame on reality shows.

Notable examples include Timi Dakolo, Omawunmi, Iyanya, Chidinma, Laycon and Efe Money, who have all successfully launched music careers after appearing on reality TV.

Ghanaian actor-turned-politician, John Dumelo, has announced the death of his father, John Anato-Dumelo Snr., at the age of 75.

Sharing the news on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Dumelo reflected on their final moments together, expressing gratitude for his father’s unwavering support and guidance.

He paid an emotional tribute, noting the bond they shared and the void his father’s absence will leave.

Dumelo recounted their last conversation, which centered on politics, business, and farming, as well as advice for his upcoming swearing-in as a member of parliament.
In the post, he wrote, ”At age 75, you lived your life well. Yesterday you called me several times that I come see you. We sat on the bed and spoke at length about politics, life, farming and business and of ourse we gossiped. We spoke about my swearing-in in three days time and you told me specifically to serve diligently in government.

“10 minutes after I left your house, I was called that you were not being responsive. I came back, we rushed you to the hospital and you were gone. Thanks for being my father, thanks for being my best friend, thanks for being my number 1 cheer leader and thanks for everything you did for me. Say hi to mum for us all.

‘We will miss you. Rest in perfect Peace Engineer John William Kudzo Anato-Dumelo Snr.”

Actor Yul Edochie has paid tributes to his late son, Kambilichukwu, on what would have been his 18th birthday today.

Sharing their photo, Yul Edochie reflected on the activities his son loved, hoping he was able to continue doing them in the afterlife.

The actor expressed his deep longing for his son, appealing to him to continue watching over his family.

Yul Edochie’s message reads: “Happy 18th birthday, son, Kambi Yul-Edochie. Hope you’re doing well over there, flying with the angels and playing basketball and football. I miss you so much. Keep watching over your family. Till we meet again. Forever in my heart, Love you, son.”

Kambilichukwu died in 2023 at 16, after reportedly slumping and being rushed to the hospital.

Actress Shaffy Bello has expressed concerns over the influence of technology on the younger generation.

During a recent appearance on Tope Olowoniyan’s talk show, Bello noted that while technology has its benefits, it can also be destructive if not used responsibly.

“The younger ones are missing out in a lot of ways. The younger generation is getting carried away with technology, the same technology that is fixing things and making life easier for you. However, I believe it can also be destructive if one is not careful,” she said.

Bello, who has a 28-year-old daughter and a 26-year-old son, acknowledged that she may not be fully aware of the challenges faced by young people today but she has some insight.

She emphasised that growing up in today’s world is much more difficult than it was in her time.

The actress reflected on her own experiences, sharing that she had her daughter at 26 and faced different challenges than those faced by young people today.

“It is much more difficult to be alive now than it was when we were growing up, it was harder for us then. I had my daughter at 26,” she stressed.

Actress and filmmaker Mercy Aigbe has announced her latest movie “Thinline”, has grossed N100 million at the box office.

Aigbe took to Instagram to express her gratitude to God and supporters, who have contributed to the film’s success.

She acknowledged the challenges faced during the production of the movie but is appreciative of the remarkable success.

The actress encouraged fans who have not yet seen the movie to experience it in cinemas, promising a unique cinematic experience.

She wrote: “Elede mi a de Oyo, Ariwo e lo ma po. Against all Odds, Against all the challenges, my amazing movie THINLINE is still thriving and standing Tall.

“My heart is full of gratitude to God and to everyone who have supported this journey thus far , i am so so grateful.

“This Win would not have been possible without your love, encouragement and support, for that i say a big THANK YOU.

“To everyone who have seen this masterpiece in a Cinema i say thank you! To everyone who continue to spread the word i say thank you.

“Those who haven’t experienced THINLINE in a cinema close to them, stop dulling! Go give yourself a treat! Go enjoy a cinematic experience never before!!!”

Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo, also known as Queen Mother has opened up about some personal and traumatic experiences from her childhood.

In a conversation with her colleague Biola Bayo on the talk show, Talk to B, which was shared on Friday, Ojo revealed that she had been r*ped five times.

She highlighted the prevalence of rape apologists in society and stated that she would hold anyone, even her own son, accountable if accused of such a crime.

“I was r*ped five times in my life. I discovered we have a lot of rape apologists. I don’t care who the person is; if that person is my son, I am going to come for him unapologetically,” she declared.

Iyabo also revealed that her father disowned her when she insisted on marrying her late husband.

“The only time I lacked was when I insisted this was the man I was going to get married to because, at that time, my dad and I disowned each other.

She spoke about how her father struggled with alcohol and drug addiction, which ultimately led to his death at the young age of 40.

“My dad did everything, alcohol and drugs, so it messed him up at a young age. He died at 40,” she added.

Reflecting on her early years, Iyabo disclosed that she was raised by her grandmother and only met her mother when she was around seven years old.

“I grew up with my grandmother, who is half Delta and half Igbo. I think I was seven before I knew my mother,” she added.

The Zambia’s music icon Wesley Chibambo, popularly known as Dandy Krazy has passed away at 47

He died on Thursday after succumbing to injuries sustained in a road accident on New Year’s Eve.

The accident, which occurred in the Kapiri Mposhi region, claimed four lives, including Dandy Krazy.

Despite undergoing emergency surgery at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, the musician’s injuries proved fatal.

Paying tributes lol, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed condolences to the family, fans and friends of the deceased musician.

“Our hearts go out to the family, fans & friends of Wesley Chibambo aka Dandy Krazy, and those affected by the tragic accident that sadly claimed 4 lives. Our dedicated Doctors & Nurses at #UTH are doing all they can. Keeping the bereaved families in our prayers during this time.

“With profound sadness we have learnt of the passing of Wesley Chibambo, aka Dandy Crazy. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends & fans. His music & charisma transcended boundaries. We also remember the 4 others lost in the tragic accident. May their souls rest in peace”.

Dandy Krazy’s music career spanned over two decades, during which he used his platform to address social and economic issues in Zambia.

His hit song “Donchi Kubeba” (“Don’t Tell Them”) played a significant role in the Patriotic Front’s victory in the 2011 general elections.

The music fraternity has been flooded with tributes and condolences, with fans and fellow musicians remembering Dandy Krazy’s contribution to Zambian music and his courage in speaking truth to power through his art.

Multiple award-winning singer, Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has announced his return to Nigeria after his performance at the 2025 Greater Lagos Countdown.

The event, held on December 31, 2024, at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, was part of the Lagos State Government’s annual end-of-year fiesta.

Wizkid, known for his hit songs, expressed his excitement to be home.

He said, “First of all, happy new year! You will live long, you will be wealthy. Long life and good health shall be for you and all your family.

“I have a very important message for you today, Lagos, Nigeria. I want you to know that your son Ayodeji Balogun, aka Wizkid, Machalla, the biggest bird, is back home now.”

The 34-year-old singer’s performance was part of the star-studded lineup at the Greater Lagos Countdown 2025, which also featured Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Olamide, Seyi Vibez, BNXN and Qinq Madi, among others.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had earlier announced the lineup, stating that Lagos was ready to host the biggest countdown event in Africa.

Actor and producer Pere Egbi has corroborated Femi Branch’s claims about the challenges faced by filmmakers in Nigerian cinemas.

Egbi shared his personal experience with his film, “The Silent Intruder,” which he claimed was unfairly treated by cinemas.

In an Instagram post, Egbi thanked Branch for speaking out on the issue and revealed that he had planned to wait until the end of January 2025 to take action.

Egbi claimed that he spent over N150 million of his personal funds on producing “The Silent Intruder” and borrowed an additional N11 million from a friend in London.

According to him, he spent over N200 million in total.

Despite this significant investment, he said the film only made N53 million in cinemas, when he personally earned just N8 million.

He expressed frustration that the film had not been picked up by streaming platforms like Netflix or Prime Video, despite being released almost 11 months ago.

Egbi stated that he had to leave Nigeria and return to America to work and pay back the loan he took to finance the film.

The actor and producer vowed to take matters by his own hands, threatening to release the film on YouTube himself if nothing changes by the end of January 2025.

He wrote on Instagram: “Dear Femi Branch, I came across your video, and I want to say thank you for speaking out on this issue. Every single thing you said is pure facts. Honestly, I was planning to wait until the end of January 2025 before making any moves, but at this point, I’m saying, “F*** it, let’s go!”

“This nonsense some cinemas do—hiding films, poor screen times—it happened to The Silent Intruder, my film. I spent over 150 million naira of my personal funds just on production, borrowed another 11 million naira from a friend in London, and still ended up being shown shege by cinemas. Imagine spending over 200 million naira (pre-production to post-production), and the film only made 53 million naira in cinemas. Out of that, I personally got just 8 million naira.

“It’s been almost 11 months since its release, and I’ve seen no Netflix or Prime Video deal. Meanwhile, films that premiered alongside mine are already streaming. Because of all this mess, I had to leave Nigeria and return to America to work, just so I can pay back the kind-hearted woman who lent me the money.

“At this point, I don’t care about being blacklisted. If nothing comes through by the end of January, I’ll release the film on YouTube myself. Enough is enough”.

Actor Femi Branch has expressed frustration over the reported growing trend of cinemas promoting one movie above others.

Branch’s concerns were sparked during a meet-and-greet event for Toyin Abraham’s latest film, “Alakada Bad and Bougie,” at a cinema.

The actor, in a video, revealed that cinema staff often wear promotional T-shirts for one film, remove media cards for other films from their counters, and replace them with those of the promoted film.

Branch further alleged that some cinema staff lobby patrons into watching certain movies, assuring them that it’s better than their intended choice.

Branch emphasised that cinemas should not dictate what people watch, and he warned those engaging in this practice to stop.

He argued that this behaviour creates division within the industry and appealed for an even playing field for producers.

Branch called for fairness and transparency in cinema promotions.

Recall that actress and producer Toyin Abraham recently hinted at the challenges faced by film owners in cinemas.

Abraham noted that some fans expect gifts in exchange for watching her movie, creating an uneven playing field for producers who cannot afford to offer such incentives.

Also, she and Mercy Aigbe accused some cinemas of sabotaging their films.

Renowned actor, producer, and director Afeez Owo has announced the passing of his father, Moshood Akanji Abiodun.

The Nollywood star, who is married to actress Mide Martins, broke the news on social media on Friday night, December 27, sharing a heartfelt tribute alongside a photo of his late father.

He wrote, “Sad… Rest in peace Baba miii. ERIN WO Rest On Moshood Akanji ABIODUN. Eku Baba Afeez Sun Re ooooo.”

Fans and industry colleagues have since flooded his comment section with messages of condolence and support as the family navigates this challenging time.

Afrobeats singer Tiwa Savage has revealed that she is contemplating quitting music.

In a recent Instagram story, the mother of one shared that her upcoming studio album might be her last.

Tiwa Savage hinted that her decision to potentially retire from music is due to feeling exhausted and believing she has given her best effort.

She wrote, “This might be my last studio album. I’m tired. I don try”.

Comedian and actor Woli Agba Ajewole has offered heartfelt prayers for Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, on his Instagram page.

In his message, Woli Agba expressed faith in God’s awareness of Naomi’s challenges, praying for her vindication and the manifestation of divine glory in her life.

Recognising her merciful nature, he asked God to extend His mercies to her.

The comedian also prayed against any satanic or demonic interference in her life, declaring that the desires of her enemies would perish.

He concluded his prayers by asking God to console all those affected by the situation and extended blessings on behalf of IPM Global.

He wrote on Instagram: “I strongly believe this is not happening outside the knowledge of God. May you be vindicated and the Glory of God shall shine brighter on you. “You are only being merciful, and God will show you HIS MERCIES.”

“The desire of the enemies shall perish with them. Every Satanic or Demonic intervention is cancelled and you are covered in the glory of God.

“May God console everyone affected in this trying time. It is very unfortunate and Sad that everything turned out this way.

“PLEASE HAVE MERCY OH LORD!!! @queen_silekunolanaomi_ogunwusi @iamoriyomihamzat

“IPM Global is praying for you and everyone involved and affected by this unpleasant and regrettable occurrence. HAVE MERCY OH DEAR LORD!!!”

Olivia Hussey, the renowned actress who captivated audiences as Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s iconic 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, has passed away at the age of 73.

Her family announced the news on Instagram, paying tribute to her remarkable life and legacy.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Olivia Hussey Eisley, who went peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on December 27th. Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her.

Born on April 17th, 1951 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Olivia lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and kindness towards animals”.

Hussey’s breakout role in Romeo and Juliet, which she landed at just 15 years old, earned her a Golden Globe for “New Star of the Year” and solidified her place in cinematic history.

Her performance, opposite Leonard Whiting, remains an unforgettable portrayal of Shakespeare’s timeless heroine.

Throughout her illustrious career, Hussey appeared in a diverse range of films and television shows, including the 1974 horror classic Black Christmas and the 1978 adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile.

Hussey is survived by her loving husband, musician David Eisley, their three children, and a grandchild.

“Olivia leaves behind a loving family— her children, Alex, Max, and India, her husband of 35 years David Glen Eisley, and grandson, Greyson, and a legacy of love that will forever be cherished in our hearts. As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia’s enduring impact on our lives and the industry.

We thank you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and ask for privacy as we mourn the loss of a truly special soul”.

Nollywood actor Femi Branch has spoken out following the stampede in Ibadan, Oyo State, last week, which resulted in the deaths of over 35 people, mostly children.

The stampede occurred during an event at the Islamic High School in the Bashorun area, organized by the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife. Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi.

The event was meant to accommodate 5,000 attendees but quickly attracted a much larger crowd after news spread of “free entry” and promises of gifts and scholarships.

But news of a “free entry” with promises of gifts and scholarships spread quickly, attracting a large crowd.

By the eve of the event, hundreds had camped outside the school to ensure they gained access.

The stampede led to the arrest and arraignment of Naomi Silekunola, CEO of Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, and the principal of Islamic High School, Fasasi Abdullahi.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Branch expressed his view that the real culprits were the parents who smuggled their children into the event, not the organizers.

He emphasized that the organizers intended to do good and said it was unfair to place the blame on them for the tragedy.

Branch questioned why the parents who threw their children over the fence to get into the event had not been held accountable.

He said, “This is not me trying to be insensitive about the plight of the children who died. It is very tragic if the purpose is to blame those people responsible for the deaths. How is it the organiser?

“According to the report, people slept overnight. They were throwing their children over the fence. How is this the fault of the organisers? Is it a problem to do good in this country right now because we are dealing with so much, and the people once in a while, from the little they have, also touch people’s lives?

He urged the authorities to focus on the parents involved in the incident, asking, “I think people need to speak up about this. Why have the police not fished out those parents who threw their children over the fence and also charged them? Because as far as I am concerned, they are the offenders, not the organisers.

“The facts are clear. It is unfair for Oriyomi Hamzat and prophetess Naomi to be remanded on this matter. These people should be set free.”

Renowned American rapper Wiz Khalifa shared his perspective on relationships and marriage during a recent appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast.

He suggested that couples should date for at least 10 years before considering marriage.

According to Wiz, this extended courtship period enables individuals to develop a deeper understanding of each other, their families, and the realities of living together.

He emphasised the significance of gaining this insight before making a lifelong commitment.

“People should date for 10 years before getting married because that’s long enough to know the person, their family, and who you’re going to deal with when you move in together”, he said.

Regarding the decision to cohabitate before or after marriage, Wiz acknowledged that each situation is unique and depends on individual circumstances.

“It depends on the situation and the circumstances. Some people move in right away and still need time to figure it out”.

He noted that living together can reveal new facets of a person’s personality, and that couples may require time to adapt to shared living arrangements, regardless of when they choose to do so.

“If you don’t move in right away, you’ll learn that there’s one version of the person when you’re not sharing things and a different version when you are”, he said.

Actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to God and the public as her latest movie, “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” achieves a remarkable milestone in the box office.

The film has become the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of 2024, earning N511 million in just 12 days.

It is also the quickest Nollywood title to hit over N500 in a few days.

Funke acknowledged the love and support of her fans, stating that she couldn’t have achieved this success without them.

She also prayed for God’s blessings upon her fans.

“Thank you, Lord!! Thank you, everyone!! I couldn’t have done this without your love and support!! God bless you all!!!”, she wrote on Instagram.

Flamboyant Nigerian pastor in the United Kingdom, UK, Tobi Adegboyega, has described popular musician, David Adeleke aka Davido, as a gospel artiste.

Adegboyega explained that gospel means good news and Davido is propagating it.

He spoke on the Off The Record podcast while responding to a question on why he invited secular musicians to perform at his recent birthday bash instead of gospel artistes.

Adegboyega also described Nigerian artist, Zlatan as his son.

He said: “Gospel means good news. Everyone there is a gospel artiste. Davido is a gospel artiste. Have you heard: ‘Because I stand strong?

“What I had then was my friends—friends who are there through thick and thin. Davido told me: ‘I just want to be there and perform for one hour.’ They’re my friends. I didn’t pay any of them. They love me, and I will give my friends platforms.

“If gospel artistes aren’t my friends and are instead joining the bandwagon to criticize me by asking, ‘Is that a church?’ What should I do? Drag them with a rope?

“It’s my friends that will be there. Everyone in that room was my friend. Zlatan is like a son to me; his kids are my kids, and his parents were in my house. So should I now say, ‘Well, because you are not gospel artistes, let me go and look for some gospel artistes who are criticizing me and force them to sing?’

“My friends will always sing at my events, and the next one will be bigger because my circle of friends keeps growing.”