Category: Entertainment

Do background checks before marrying your partner – Veteran actor Chiwetalu Agu warns singles

Veteran Nigerian actor, Chiwetalu Agu has urged singles to thoroughly investigate their prospective spouses before getting married.

In a trending video shared on Instagram, Agu cautioned against making marriage decisions out of peer pressure or desperation.

He emphasised that marriage should not be seen as a life-or-death commitment and advised those in toxic unions to seek help or walk away for their safety.

“Marriage is not a do-or-die affair. If you have an abusive partner, or in a toxic relationship, run for your life. If you are not happy in your marriage, seek help or run for your life.”

The veteran actor further stressed the dangers of staying in harmful marriages for the sake of children or financial stability.

“Divorce is better than rest in peace. I want to stay because of my children or because he is rich. That was how a lady was burnt to death by her husband. Now, who will take care of the kids? Is it the husband that killed you? Or the relatives who love their own families?”

Chiwetalu Agu also urged individuals to conduct proper background checks before committing to marriage, warning against impulsive decisions based on physical attraction or societal pressure.

“Always remember to do a background checks before proceeding to marrying someone. She is beautiful or he is handsome; I want to marry him or her by all means, see you, see death.”

“My mates are all married, but I’m still single, see you, see death. I pray we don’t make mistakes that will cost us our life in the name of marriage in Jesus name.”

February 2, 2025
Nollywood actor, Joseph Okechukwu shares his experience attending Trump’s inauguration

Nollywood actor Joseph Okechukwu shared his exciting experience as he recently attended Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States.

He revealed that he was personally and officially invited to the event, which he described as “the honour of a lifetime” .

Okechukwu, also known as “King Joe,” said that he has been a consistent supporter of Trump since 2016 and has even established “Africans for Trump International.”

He expressed his gratitude to the “MAGA Brothers” and a close friend “J” from Trump’s campaign advisory team for making the invitation possible.

According to the actor, he shared a table with Hollywood’s Robert Davi at the mini post-inauguration ball. He was impressed by the faith and values of the distinguished individuals he met, who have served in Trump’s administration.

Okechukwu’s motivation for supporting Trump stems from his desire to “help usher in an age of sanity and common sense into our world.” He believes that Trump’s leadership can bring decency and sense back to America and the world. “I would like to express my eternal gratitude to the inner circle ‘MAGA Brothers,’ especially my close friend “J” from President Trump’s campaign advisory team, who helped make this happen in grand style. I did not establish “Africans for Trump International” or campaign for President Trump over the years for recognition, a job, or anything of that sort. My motivation has always been to help usher in an age of sanity and common sense into our world,” the actor said.

February 1, 2025
Unforgettable night of music, fun as Element House opening party holds tonight

Spektrum Entertainment is thrilled to announce the return of Element House, kicking off tonight at the Landmark Centre in Lagos. The party, which runs from dusk to dawn, promises an unforgettable experience. Among the performers expected to thrill the audience are Homeboyz, Vidza, Tobi Peter, and Tigran Sound.

Sponsored by a number of corporate entities including Johnnie Walker Nigeria, Desperados Nigeria, and Red Bull, Element House is established to be a leading force in Nigeria’s entertainment and nightlife scene. The outfit is committed to curating exceptional events that celebrate music, culture, and connection.

February 1, 2025
Bongo star, Eluigwe Nwa Ugorji, Tee-7 Band to perform at Lady Cordelia Anibeze’s funeral

The ancient town of Aguobu Owa in Enugu State is set to come alive next weekend, as it hosts the funeral rites of Lady Cordelia Ogbonne Anibeze, mother of Onochie Anibeze, Editor of Saturday Vanguard and Professor Chike Anibeze of ESUT.

The burial ceremony, which kicks off on February 4, with Christian wake keep at Mary’s Catholic church, Trans Ekulu at 5 pm will on Saturday in Ezeagu feature a star-studded lineup of entertainers.

The programme continues on Saturday, February 8, with lying-in-state and later, interment at her compound after a funeral service at CKC Parish , Aguoba-Owa. Thereafter, entertainment and social events will follow at the Primary School, Obodongwu Ozom, where renowned Bongo musician, Eluigwe Nwa Ugorji alongside Enugu-based Tee-7Band will be on the band stand, dishing out their evergreen songs.

Eluigwe, who released his debut album, ‘Aku Chinyere” in 2002, is one of the most talented Bongo musicians in the south-eastern part of the country. Known for his energetic style and captivating beats, Eluigwe Nwa Ugorji’s music explores themes of love, social justice, and cultural heritage, endearing him to his community. With about eight albums to his credit, and countless performances at festivals and social events within and outside the shores of Nigeria, Eluigwe Nwa Ugorji is the Bongo musician to beat.

Eluigwe expressed his excitement about performing in Enugu for the first time, promising to entertain his fans and guests with his timeless songs. Similarly, Tee-7Band led by Eneife Ikechukwu Christian, is renowned for mesmerizing performances and will surely entertain the guests with Old School and High Life tunes.

The event promises to be a memorable celebration of Lady Anibeze’s life, with music, dance, and merriment.She slept quietly on December 24, after a brief illness in Enugu.

February 1, 2025
Estate Administrators debunk claims of evicting Obi Cubana from Abuja property

The administrators of the late Michael Nwobi Amakaeze Estate have refuted recent reports alleging that popular businessman Obinna Iyiegbu, also known as Obi Cubana, was served a seven-day notice to vacate a property over unpaid rent.

In a statement issued by Chukwunwem Amakaeze, co-administrator of the estate, the administrators clarified that Obi Cubana is not a tenant of the estate and has no outstanding rent obligations.

“The property in question, located at Plot 81 Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja, is occupied by Cubana Lounge Ltd, which was granted a ten-year lease beginning November 1, 2009. The lease was successfully renewed for another ten years in 2019,” the statement explained.

The validity of the lease and the Letters of Administration dated January 16, 2018, were affirmed by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in a ruling on July 16, 2021, in Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/1325/20, involving Cubana Lounge Ltd and others.

The estate administrators emphasized that no valid notice to vacate had been issued.

“We, the administrators, have not issued any notice to Cubana Lounge Ltd, as its lease is still subsisting, and it is not owing the estate,” the statement said.

The controversy arose after Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze, who claims to be the sole landlord of the property, issued a notice to Obinna Iyiegbu on January 14, 2025, demanding that he vacate the premises. This action, according to the statement, was taken without the consent of the co-administrators and beneficiaries of the estate.

The administrators declared the notice issued by Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze as “invalid, null, and void” and clarified that it does not represent the collective position of the estate’s co-administrators and beneficiaries.

In conclusion, the estate administrators reiterated their commitment to maintaining lawful agreements and urged the public to disregard any misinformation regarding the property.

February 1, 2025
2Baba-Annie divorce saga: Remake of Bobby and Whitney’s?

I read 2Face’s brother’s story mocking Annie, and I was sad. He is happy to see Annie in that condition. Right now, 2Face may be seeing another lady. This is the time for loved ones to take her out of Nigeria as soon as possible.”

From Comfort Dayvid, comes an open letter to Annie on Facebook. It’s a long one; edited as well.

“Dear Annie Macauley, if it is true that you are no longer gonna be 2baba’s African Queen, brace up and pick what is left of you and move on.

My only concern is the fact that the timing is very wrong. For weeks I have read so many horrible things about you. The internet has been feasting on people trolling you and making a mockery of your love for your husband.

He could have waited for things to settle down before going public or because of the kids and their mental health; or because of all the good times you both shared; or when you are doing much better because, the you I saw on the TV a few weeks back, from every indication isn’t looking well.

It’s my earnest prayers that the Holy spirit holds your hands and walks through this hard and emotional phase with you. You will be fine. Stay Strong!”

While Inside Life shared 2Baba’s confessional statement about his love for Annie titled, “Why I married Annie – by Tuface Idibia”, some bloggers are spreading rumours and videos indicating that 2Baba is already boning a new babe. They said she’s a female lawmaker. What a world!

February 1, 2025
Grammy 2025: Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, Tems, Yemi Alade, Asake battle for honours at tomorrow’s event

as six of the country’s superstars, including Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, Tems, Yemi Alade, and Asake are battling for top honours at this year’s ceremony.

The awards show takes place this Sunday, at the prestigious Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

These talented artists have earned nominations in major categories, including Best African Music Performance, Best Global Music Album, and Best R&B Song. Tems is leading the pack with three nominations, while Burna Boy is making history as the first African artist to receive Grammy nominations for six consecutive years.

The competition is fierce, but these Nigerian superstars are ready to shine on the global stage. Will they bring home the Grammys’ gold-plated trophies? Your guess is as good as mine. But whatever it is, it will be a good outing for Nigerian music stars.

Particularly, Burna Boy is not an unfamiliar face at the Grammys as well as Davido and Tems. With his profound sound and third Grammy nomination in a row, the self-styled African Giant is sure to bag his second Grammy award. His latest song, “Higher” from his album “I Told Them.” which was released in June last year, was nominated in the “Best African Music Performance” category.

This is Burna Boy’s second consecutive nomination in this category. He has the likes of queen of Afro-pop, Yemi Alade, Asake, Tems and Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay to beat in order to clinch the coveted trophy. Like Burna Boy, Tems is one of the top contenders in this year’s Grammys with nominations across three categories. Not only was she nominated for Best African Music Performance with “Love Me Jeje”, she’s also up for Best Global Music Album for her debut album “Born in the Wild.”. She would also be in the

running for Best R&B Song for “Burning”, a track from the same album. Building on her Grammy win for contributing to Future’s “Wait for U,” Tems is expected to return home with one of the three Grammy trophies.

Yemi Alade, Asake and Rema are making their first Grammy outing, and one cannot rule out the possibility of one of them clinching at least a trophy. Alade’s nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for her song “Tomorrow”, showcased her resilience, hard-work and dedication to her craft. This adds to her milestone as the first Nigerian female artist and second Nigerian Afro beats artist to reach 100 million views on YouTube for a single video after Davido. Many believe it would be a tough battle for Mama Africa, especially having the likes of Burna Boy, Tems and Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay to beat. Rema has done well for himself, and it’s believed that his nomination for Best Global Music Album for his song ‘HEIS’ was long overdue. But if the Edo boy wins the award, it will definitely open a new chapter in his career as a global superstar as well as Asake,whose nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for his song, “MMS” featuring Wizkid has elevated his status on the global stage.

Also, legendary Beninese-French singer,Angélique Kidjo may rewrite her story if she clinches ‘Best Global Music Performance award, for her collaboration with the Soweto Choir on the powerful track “Sunlight To My Soul”. She has Ghana’s reggae and Afro-Roots artiste, Rocky Dawuni to edge out in order to clinch the trophy.

Meanwhile, Trevor Noah, who is also nominated for Best Comedy Album, will serve as host for the fifth year in a row. He is not only stepping in as master of ceremonies, but he will also serve as a producer, per The Wrap.

Though organisers have cancelled several traditional Grammy Week events this year, transforming the awards night as a fund-raising event, to support major relief efforts following the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The Recording Academy and MusiCares also have pledged over $3.2 million in emergency aid for music professionals affected by the recent wildfires. The show will air on CBS and stream live for Paramount subscribers with Showtime and be available on-demand for Paramount Essential subscribers the following day.

Lineup of performers

Like the previous editions, there has been a first round of confirmed performers, including current Grammy nominees Shakira, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, Doechii, RAYE, Sabrina Carpenter, and Teddy Swims. Also, joining the lineup of performers at the show are 12 more singers better known as newcomers, Stevie Wonder, Cynthia Erivo, Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Lainey Wilson, Herbie Hancock, Brittany Howard, Brad Paisley, Janelle Monáe, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, and Jacob Collier.

Beyond that, before the show is the Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony, which will be broadcast live at 12:30 p.m. PT via YouTube and live.grammy.com. Performing at that event are Yolanda Adams, Wayne Brady, Deborah Cox, Scott Hoying, Angelique Kidjo, Taj Mahal, Joe Bonamassa, Joyce DiDonato, Béla Fleck, Renée Fleming, Muni Long, Kelli O’Hara, and Kevin Puts.

It was previously announced that this year’s ceremony “will carry a renewed sense of purpose: raising additional funds to support wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery and dedication of first responders who risk their lives to protect ours.”

Beyoncé

Pop star Beyoncé will be the cynosure of all eyes, as she leads the pack with 11 nominations, including Best Country Album for Cowboy Carter. She is also breaking records as the most-nominated female artist in a single year. Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, and Post Malone received seven nominations, while Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Taylor Swift earned six each. Undoubtedly, this year’s Grammys will be the most contested awards of all time.

February 1, 2025
Five things to watch for at the Grammys

It’s a baffling irony that the culture-shifting Beyonce has won more Grammys than anyone, ever, but has yet to attain the holy grail that is winning for Album of the Year.

At Sunday’s 67th edition of music’s top awards ceremony, the megastar has yet another chance to take home the prize — but in a packed field of no-skips albums, who will ultimately win the night’s top trophies is anyone’s guess.

Here’s a guide to Sunday’s gala in Los Angeles:

– Is it finally Beyonce’s year? –

The Grammys have long faced criticism that they’re too white and too male.

In recent years, the Recording Academy, which organizes the show, has made efforts to improve on that shortcoming, including by diversifying its voting membership.

Those efforts seem to have yielded some progress: the past few galas have proven historic for women in the major, all-genre categories as well as in fields where they were routinely sidelined, like rock.

But a stark truth remains: a Black woman has not won Album of the Year in this century.

The last to do so was Lauryn Hill, in 1999. Before her, Whitney Houston won in 1994, and Natalie Cole in 1992.

With her sprawling, ambitious “Cowboy Carter” that underscored the rich history of Black artists in country music, Beyonce is all but daring Grammy voters to snub her once again.

One thing is for sure: Win or lose, Beyonce will dominate the headlines.

– Wildfire relief for LA –

This year’s Grammys ceremony takes place just weeks after deadly wildfires engulfed entire neighborhoods in Los Angeles, shattering the lives of thousands of residents including many in the music industry.

But the Recording Academy decided the show must go on, although it will likely be a more muted affair than usual, with an extra emphasis on raising money for fire relief efforts.

The fires have lent prominence to the Academy’s philanthropic arm MusiCares, which says it has already distributed several million dollars in emergency aid, and which will hold its annual fundraising pre-Grammy gala on Friday — sans red carpet.

– Pop’s breakouts and heavyweights –

It’s a pop star’s world and we’re just living in it: Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX have all enjoyed massive years that place them among Sunday’s top contenders.

Roan and Carpenter in particular are among the favorites to take the prizes for best record and best song, which celebrates songwriting, as well as the coveted prize for best new artist.

And perennial winner Billie Eilish is also a major name to beat in the top categories — the Grammys darling is just 23 but could win a record third Song of the Year trophy.

Despite all of her accolades, Swift — who could win a fifth Album of the Year prize, which would break her own record — has somehow never won Song of the Year, despite receiving persistent praise for her songwriting skills.

She’s lost seven times — and has the chance to finally end that streak.

– A Beatles win? –

The Grammys never disappoint with the head-scratchers: this year, the most puzzling nomination went to The Beatles — yes, those Beatles, the group that broke up more than 50 years ago.

The Record of the Year nomination for “Now and Then” spotlighted the Recording Academy’s ongoing debate on how to handle artificial intelligence.

An AI tool allowed for isolating John Lennon’s vocals from a poor quality demo tape, which were then added to contributions from living Beatles Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney, along with 1995 guitar recordings from the late George Harrison.

The track is eligible for a Grammy because the AI was not generative, and the nomination could be a nod from the Academy to the future of production and recording.

If The Beatles win — Grammy voters do love a legacy act — it would be their first time ever scoring that prize, after four failed attempts in their heyday.

– Quincy Jones tribute –

Sunday’s concert gala will include a salute to the singular Quincy Jones, who after Beyonce (32) and the conductor Georg Solti (31) is among the most awarded artists, with 28 career Grammys.

The 91-year-old died in November after ruling the American music industry with a magic touch for well over half-a-century, working with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Michael Jackson.

A jazz musician, composer and tastemaker, Jones’s studio chops and arranging prowess made him a star in his own right — and the Recording Academy is set to honor him as such.

February 1, 2025
Gospel actor, Moses Korede Are ‘Baba Gbenro’, buried in Oyo

Baba Gbenro

Veteran actor Moses Korede Are, popularly recognised for his role as Baba Gbenro in the popular Mount Zion series, “Abattoir,” has been laid to rest.

The film star was buried in Ogbomosho, Oyo State.

Christian video podcast, Zion Kulture, a subsidiary of Mount Zion Radio, shared photos of the funeral on X on Friday.

Photo credit: Zion Kulture

Fondly known as Baba Gbenro, the actor was born on June 11, 1959. He spent his early years in Kano State, later continuing his education in Plateau State and ultimately completing his studies in southwestern Nigeria.

He was the founder and International President of Calvary Movies Drama Ministry, based in Ogbomoso. He died in November 2024.

January 31, 2025
Key nominees for the Grammy Awards

Here is a list of nominees in the major categories for the 67th annual Grammy Awards, which will be handed out on Sunday in Los Angeles.

Beyonce leads all nominees with 11 on the strength of her groundbreaking country album “Cowboy Carter”:

– Album of the Year –

“New Blue Sun” – Andre 3000

“Cowboy Carter” – Beyonce

“Short n’ Sweet” – Sabrina Carpenter

“Brat” – Charli XCX

“Djesse Vol. 4” – Jacob Collier

“Hit Me Hard and Soft” – Billie Eilish

“The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” – Chappell Roan

“The Tortured Poets Department” – Taylor Swift

– Record of the Year, recognizing overall performance on a song –

“Now and Then” – The Beatles

“Texas Hold ‘Em” – Beyonce

“Espresso” – Sabrina Carpenter

“360” – Charli XCX

“Birds of a Feather” – Billie Eilish

“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar

“Good Luck, Babe!” – Chappell Roan

“Fortnight” – Taylor Swift, featuring Post Malone

– Song of the Year, recognizing songwriting –

“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Sean Cook, Jerrel Jones, Joe Kent, Shaboozey, Nevin Sastry & Mark Williams, songwriters (Shaboozey)

“Birds of a Feather” – Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish)

“Die with a Smile” – Dernst ‘D’Mile’ Emile II, James Fauntleroy, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars & Andrew Watt, songwriters (Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars)

“Fortnight” – Jack Antonoff, Post Malone & Taylor Swift, songwriters (Taylor Swift Featuring Post Malone)

“Good Luck, Babe!” – Chappell Roan, Daniel Nigro & Justin Tranter, songwriters (Chappell Roan)

“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar, songwriter (Kendrick Lamar)

“Please Please Please” – Amy Allen, Jack Antonoff & Sabrina Carpenter, songwriters (Sabrina Carpenter)

“Texas Hold ‘Em” – Brian Bates, Beyonce, Elizabeth Lowell Boland, Megan Bulow, Nate Ferraro & Raphael Saadiq, songwriters (Beyonce)

– Best New Artist –

Benson Boone

Sabrina Carpenter

Doechii

Khruangbin

Raye

Chappell Roan

Shaboozey

Teddy Swims

– Best Pop Solo Performance –

“Bodyguard” – Beyonce

“Espresso” – Sabrina Carpenter

“Apple” – Charli XCX

“Birds of a Feather” – Billie Eilish

“Good Luck, Babe!” – Chappell Roan

– Best Pop Vocal Album –

“Short n’ Sweet” – Sabrina Carpenter

“Hit Me Hard and Soft” – Billie Eilish

“Eternal Sunshine” – Ariana Grande

“The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” – Chappell Roan

“The Tortured Poets Department” – Taylor Swift

– Best Music Video –

Tailor Swif” – A$AP Rocky

“360” – Charli XCX

“Houdini” – Eminem

“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar

“Fortnight” – Taylor Swift featuring Post Malone

– Best Rap Album –

“Might Delete Later” – J. Cole

“The Auditorium, Vol. 1” – Common and Pete Rock

“Alligator Bites Never Heal” – Doechii

“The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grace) – Eminem

“We Don’t Trust You” – Future and Metro Boomin

– Best Rock Album –

“Happiness Bastards” – The Black Crowes

“Romance” – Fontaines DC

“Saviors” – Green Day

“Tangk” – Idles

“Dark Matter” – Pearl Jam

“Hackney Diamonds” – The Rolling Stones

“No Name” – Jack White

– Best Country Album –

“Cowboy Carter” – Beyonce

“F-1 Trillion” – Post Malone

“Deeper Well” – Kacey Musgraves

“Higher” – Chris Stapleton

“Whirlwind” – Lainey Wilson

– Best Country Solo Performance –

“16 Carriages” – Beyonce

“I Am Not Okay” – Jelly Roll

“The Architect” – Kacey Musgraves

“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey

“It Takes a Woman” – Chris Stapleton

– Best Global Music Album –

“Alkebulan II” – Matt B featuring Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

“Paisajes” – Ciro Hurtado

“Heis” – Rema

“Historias de un Flamenco” – Antonio Rey

“Born in the Wild” – Tems

– Artists with Most Nominations –

Beyonce (11)

Charli XCX (8)

Post Malone (8)

Billie Eilish (7)

Kendrick Lamar (7)

Sabrina Carpenter (6)

Chappell Roan (6)

Taylor Swift (6)

January 31, 2025