April 2025 | Page 19 of 45

Police Confirm Deaths of Two Film Actors After Eating Rice in Imo State

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The Imo State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has launched investigation into the deaths of two yet-to-be-identified film actors in Owerri, the state capital. The actors were reported to have died after eating rice and drinking wine on Friday. On Friday night, report broke that four actors had been rushed to the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where two were pronounced dead on arrival. One Kaito Karisia, said the movie director who provided the food and drinks had reportedly gone to bed early, leaving the four actors and three ladies partying. He reportedly woke up in the early hours of Friday to switch from the power generator to the public power supply and discovered that two actors were already dead while the other two were gasping for breath. Karisia, who shared news of the incident on his Facebook page, said the two surviving male actors were responding to treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Owerri. He quoted one of the survivors to have recounted, “Their host (the movie director) offered them rice, and everyone ate. He later brought out a bottle of Calypso and wine. They only took a sip and did not drink further. “However, the two other guys who are now dead finished the drink,” he wrote in his Facebook page. When contacted on telephone, the Command’s spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident, adding that investigations had begun to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident. Okoye described the incident as “unfortunate and tragic”, stating that two of the actors had been confirmed dead and two others were responding to treatment in a hospital. “As I speak with you, the Commissioner of Police for Imo State, Aboki Danjuma, has directed a pathologist to conduct tests on the two deceased persons to ascertain the cause of death. “The results will determine the next line of action in the matter,” Okoye said.

Liverpool: Arne Slot on Virgil van Dijk agreeing a new contract

Liverpool: Arne Slot Thumbs Up Van Dijk On New Contract

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has praised Virgil van Dijk’s decision to extend his contract with the club, highlighting it as a testament to Liverpool’s ambition and a significant boost as the team nears the Premier League title. Van Dijk, who has been a central figure in Liverpool’s defense since his arrival in 2018, recently signed a two-year contract extension, committing to the club until 2027. This move ends speculation about his future and ensures that the Dutch captain remains a cornerstone of Slot’s squad.talkSPORT Slot expressed his satisfaction with the extension, stating that securing Van Dijk’s services reflects the club’s determination to maintain a high level of performance and competitiveness. He emphasized that retaining key players like Van Dijk is crucial for the team’s continued success. The contract renewal comes at a pivotal time, with Liverpool leading the Premier League by 13 points and on the cusp of securing their second title since Van Dijk’s arrival. Slot believes that Van Dijk’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as the team navigates the final stages of the season. In addition to Van Dijk, Mohamed Salah has also extended his contract with Liverpool, further solidifying the team’s core. These renewals signal the club’s commitment to building a squad capable of sustained success under Slot’s guidance.

North Will Back Tinubu Again in 2027 – Governor Sule

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago06 mins

Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule yesterday declared that the North would not waver in its support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027. The North, the governor insisted, would not pander to the whims and caprices of a few who want to equate their personal interest with that of the majority of the people of the region. Governor Sule spoke on a day the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, said Tinubu would be re-elected comfortably regardless of “the volume of armchair theories and political conspiracies” by opponents. The President’s performance ‘will clear the path,” Dare said. Speaking at the 2025 Nzeh Mada Festival in Akwanga, Akwanga Local Government Area of the state yesterday, Gov. Sule said it had become imperative for the North to work towards the actualisation of Tinubu’s return in 2027. According to him, supporting the President’s re-election would be a fulfillment of the promise the region’s leaders made ahead of the 2023 general elections. Sule, who doubles as Chairman, North Central Governors Forum, said the North is not known for reneging on its promise. He urged North’s stakeholders to disregard the agitation of a few politicians who are bent on causing confusion in the polity on account of their failed personal ambition. He said the same politicians were among the region’s leaders who sold Tinubu’s candidacy to the people in 2023. He said: “Some politicians will always create confusion if they fail to get what they want or achieve their targets. “As a junior governor then, some of the older governors told us that the best person for the presidency was Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “They told us Tinubu can transform Nigeria the same way he made Lagos an epicenter of business and commerce. “It was a challenging period but we worked hard to bring Tinubu into office. “Today, the same people, because they couldn’t get what they were looking for, are criticising Tinubu; that he is the worst President Nigeria has ever produced. “Well, whether he is the good, the bad or the ugly, by the grace of God, we are bringing back Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue as president of Nigeria.” He said the North made a firm commitment that having been in the presidency for eight years, the South should have its turn. “So, we cannot do the contrary. We cannot say something today and say another tomorrow. “So, we have to be patient and support the President to do his eight years in office,” he noted. Only last Wednesday, prominent members of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc in the All Progressives Congress (APC) pledged their support for the Tinubu administration and its policies. They also pledged loyalty to the APC. Former Nasarawa State Governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, the only elected CPC governor; former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari, who was House of Representatives Speaker, and Minister of Education in the Muhammadu Buhari Administration, Alhaji Adamu Adamu, signed a communiqué after a meeting of the CPC bloc, along with 20 others. It was in reaction to the switch by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, a member of the CPC bloc, to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) last month. Similarly, the North Central Renaissance Movement (NCRM) has expressed support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls. Chairperson of the movement, Prof. Nghargbu K’tso, during a visit to Governor Sule in Lafia on Friday, also advocated that the North Central Zone should produce the President after 2027.

Morocco 2025: Flamingos Trash Algeria 4-0 Confident of Victory in Algiers After Naira Rain

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

Nigeria inched closer to an eighth appearance at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals on Saturday after a brace by Queen Joseph and one each by Zainab Raji and substitute Aishat Animashaun left Algeria’s U17 girls bedraggled in Ikenne-Remo. There were bold hints of a massacre early in the day as the Flamingos attained the scoreboard only one minute into the match, after Philomena Isaiah cut the ball back into the box from a corner for the lurking Queen Joseph to smash into the roof of the net. Joseph, Zainab Raji, Muinat Rotimi, Kaosarat Olanrewaju and Shakirat Moshood swarmed on the Algerians time and again, and it was no surprise when in the 13th minute, Raji received a sweet pass from Moshood, accounted for two defenders with a drop of the shoulder, and unleashed a rocket into the top corner. The bold, audacious and vivacious approach of the Flamingos greatly unsettled the visitors, who apparently came to soak the pressure, and things got worse for them in the 17th minute when Joseph, left to dance into the box, struck a belter that left goalkeeper Amelia Yahiaoui with no chance. Layana Belgacem, captain Zaza Rebbahi, Mehdi Assia, Thania Ammar Parmentier and Melissa Benchikh all tried to take the game to the Flamingos in a busy second period, but they were checkmated each time by the rearguard of Azeezat Oduntan, Christianah Sunday, Hannah Ibrahim and Jumai Adebayo. Just as the crowd that included President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, NFF Executive Committee members Sharif Rabiu Inuwa and Aisha Falode, General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi and Remo Stars FC proprietor Hon. Kunle Soname were certain it had ended 3-0, substitute Aishat Animashaun pulled out a sublime one from outside the box, placing the ball in the far corner with goalkeeper Yahiaoui stranded. President of NFF, Ibrahim Musa Gusau announced a cash gift of the sum of N6,000,0000 (Six Million Naira) for the girls after the match, explaining that the sum of two million naira is from the NFF while the sum of four million naira is a gift from billionaire businessman Hon. Kunle Soname. Gusau charged the girls to go to Algiers and play their hearts out to win the World Cup ticket for Nigeria. Both teams will make it a date in the return at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida (outside Algiers) on Friday, with the winner on aggregate to qualify as one of Africa’s five flag-bearers at this year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals in Morocco.

Badoo: The Law Student Billed to Fight at GOtv Boxing Night 33

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Raheem Animashaun, popularly known as “Badoo”, has gained admission to study Law at the University of Lagos, just months after becoming the youngest-ever West African Boxing Union (WABU) champion at age 17. Animashaun won the WABU Super Flyweight title at GOtv Boxing Night 32 and also walked away with ₦1 million cash prize attached to the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy, awarded to the best boxer. He is scheduled to face Beninois opponent, Jean Coffi, in the headline bout of GOtv Boxing Night 33, which takes place in Lagos on 26 April at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos. While his boxing career continues to rise, Animashaun is also making moves outside the ring. He recently shared that studying Law is part of his long-term plan to build a stable future beyond sports, and to better understand how systems work. For the teenager, education is not an afterthought — it’s an active part of the journey. Born and raised in a modest Lagos household, Raheem was introduced to boxing by his father, Jamiu Animashaun. who saw it as a potential path out of their financial challenges. Jamiu Animashaun, who also serves as his trainer, was also a boxer who fought in two editions of GOtv Boxing Night. That effort is beginning to pay off, not just in belts but in broader opportunities. His 12-year-old sister has also taken up boxing, inspired by his success. Animashaun’s story has quickly become a symbol of hope and ambition for many Nigerian youths, especially those who feel forced to choose between school and sport. His ability to pursue both, even under tough conditions, highlights a discipline and determination beyond his years. As GOtv Boxing Night 33 approaches, all eyes will be on “Badoo” both for what he does in the ring against Coffi, and what he represents outside it: a new generation of Nigerian athletes who are just as focused on their future as they are on the fight. GOtv Boxing Night 33 is organised by Flykite Productions and sponsored by GOtv Nigeria.

Kidnapper of 12 year Old Girl In Rivers Traced To Enugu Prison

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago015 mins

The prime suspect in the kidnapping incident of a 12-year-old girl, Favour Oluwaseyi in Obio/Akpor Local Government area of Rivers State on August 7, 2024, had been traced by men of the Nigeria Police to the Enugu Correctional facility. The suspect, simply identified as Chiboy, is an inmate at the facility, as the phone number used in calling the mother of the victim and the account number used in receiving a demanded ransom of N100,000 were traced to him. Expressing their displeasure over the ugly development, the Rivers Civil Society Organisations have called on the Inspector General of Police and the Controller-General of Nigeria Correctional Service to unmask and arrest the suspect who has been operating and masterminding abductions from the Enugu Correctional facility. Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, Chairman Rivers Civil Society Organisations, Comrade Enefaa Georgewill, said it was unfortunate that criminals now use correctional centers as hideouts to perpetrate crime and criminality in the society. The civil rights defenders however, expressed disappointment that efforts made by operatives of the police to arrest the suspect after unravelling his identity were resisted by officials of the correctional facility. He said, “The story of Oluwaseyi is one story too many in our society and it goes to show the complicity of our security agents, especially the police and wardens in correctional facilities, otherwise called prisons in the continuous atrocious crimes going on in Rivers State and across the country. “It is barbaric and shameful that eight months after a kidnapping incident, we are still talking about this matter even though we have already gotten the primary suspect who has been traced to Enugu prison. “What again is the police waiting for, except that men of the police and wardens of the correctional facility are complicit in this matter, otherwise this matter is straightforward. “We are saying the controller general of corrections should immediately ask his men in Enugu prison to provide the criminal who have kidnapped Oluwaseyi, we are equally calling on the inspector general of police to ask his men to do the needful by making sure that all those who are involved, especially the young girl that lured the victim out of the house that have been caught on camera.” RIVCSOs further called on the Nigeria Police to invite the friend of the kidnap victim who was seen on CCTV camera escorting the victim to meet the kidnappers on that fateful day. “We want the inspector general of police to ask his men to produce the girl, because from the information available to us, the girl is nowhere to be found, the girl and her parents have parked out of the house, and the police are saying that they don’t know their whereabouts. “To date, the young lady who lured Oluwaseyi out of the house is nowhere to be found. We are saying the Inspector General of Police should make sure that the police in Rivers State provide that young lady. “We are equally saying that he police should do everything humanly possible within their powers to make sure that all those who are found culpable in this matter, especially the wife of the kidnapper in prison whose phone number have been gotten should equally be brought back for security, anything outside this, we will be left with no other choice than to escalate this matter beyond this Press briefing.” Explaining how his 12-year-old daughter fell into the hands of kidnappers, the 44-year-old father, Mr Ogunsinasi Oluwaseyi, said his daughter was lured out of his house in broad daylight by a neighbour on August 7, 2024. He said the female neighbour led his innocent daughter to a waiting strange man who, upon laying his hand on his daughter, immediately took her away in a tricycle. The distraught father of four is now begging well-meaning Nigerians to come to his aid in helping him secure the release of his abducted daughter, who had been in captivity for eight months. Narrating the incidents that preceded his daughter’s abduction, he said, “On the 7th of August, 2024, I was at my place of work when my wife called me and said my daughter is missing. I was shocked because that was the least thing I expected. “My wife told me that she was watching TV in the sitting room with the children, alongside a friend of my kidnapped daughter and my wife went to the toilet to ease herself in our bedroom, before my wife could finish from the toilet to return to the sitting room, my daughter and her friend were nowhere to be found. “My wife checked at the next apartment within the compound, the two girls were nowhere to be found, my wife also checked outside but couldn’t find either of them and she decided to raise an alarm. “One hour later, my kidnapped daughter’s friend was seen running back, so my wife asked her. Where is your friend Favour that who of you was watching TV together in the sitting room? She said Favour followed a strange man, that both of them followed the man and as the man was going Favour followed the man and she was behind telling Favour, do you know this man you are following but she said nothing. “That day we searched all round but couldn’t find her, I even called one of my brothers to help me search, but could not find my Favour anywhere.” Mr. Ogunsinasi explained that the kidnappers, after a week called his wife on the phone and demanded a ransom of N200,000, which N100,000 was paid following much pleadings, adding that the kidnappers despite receiving the ransom and acknowledging receipt, refused to release the little girl. “On the 9th day of August, a number called my wife and the caller asked my wife to come and collect my daughter at Eleme junction, on her way going, the person called again and was now asking how much are you coming with and my wife said you…

Atiku Slams Tinubu Over Insecurity Accuses President of Indifference Amid Rising Violence

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a scathing criticism of President Bola Tinubu over the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, describing the current administration as “utterly incapable” and lacking the competence to address the country’s security crisis. In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page, Atiku expressed deep concern over the federal government’s perceived indifference to the ongoing violence, particularly in the Logo and Gbagir communities of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State. According to Atiku, the rising insecurity has become a daily tragedy for many Nigerians, yet the Tinubu administration continues to show no urgency or empathy. He accused the president of being absent during a time of national trauma, saying that Nigerians are left to suffer and mourn without leadership or meaningful response from the federal government. “Leadership demands presence,” he wrote, criticizing Tinubu for prioritizing foreign trips over the lives of citizens at home. To support his point, Atiku referenced international examples of responsive leadership, including former U.S. President Barack Obama, who cut short a diplomatic visit in response to a domestic crisis, and South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, who returned home during an electricity emergency. He also recalled how former President Goodluck Jonathan returned from abroad following a deadly bomb blast in Abuja, highlighting that responsible leaders prioritize national emergencies. Atiku condemned what he described as Tinubu’s “governing in absentia” and said that even if the administration cannot solve the security challenges, it should at least show empathy. “If Tinubu cannot deliver safety and dignity to Nigerians, the very least he can do is pretend to care — regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation,” he stated. His comments reflect growing frustration not only from the opposition but also, he claimed, from members within the ruling party who privately admit their concerns. He concluded by offering condolences to the government and people of Benue State, pledging to continue speaking out against the government’s failures. “Nigeria is bleeding. Nigerians are dying. The president is nowhere to be found,” Atiku said, urging all Nigerians to hold the government accountable for the safety and well-being of its citizens.

Davido Eyes Nollywood: Afrobeats Star Set to Invest in Film Projects in 2025

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago013 mins

Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, is making waves beyond the music industry with his bold announcement to venture into Nollywood, Nigeria’s thriving film sector. On April 19, 2025, the award-winning artist revealed plans to invest in several film projects this year, sparking excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. Known for his chart-topping hits and global influence, Davido’s pivot to filmmaking signals a new chapter in his multifaceted career. This blog post dives into Davido’s Nollywood ambitions, his collaboration with director Dammy Twitch, his acting aspirations, and the potential impact of his investments on Africa’s film industry. From Music to Movies: Davido’s New Frontier Davido’s announcement came during a candid interview with content creator Darryl, which quickly went viral across platforms like X and Instagram. The singer, whose fifth studio album 5ive dropped on April 19, 2025, shared that filmmaking has always been a passion. “I studied business marketing, so I would have still been in the entertainment space if I wasn’t singing, probably more behind the scenes,” he said, hinting at his long-standing interest in the creative industry beyond music. This isn’t Davido’s first brush with Nollywood. In 2014, he made his acting debut in the action-packed movie John Zerebe, directed by Teco Benson, alongside his cousin Ikechukwu Ojeogwu Francis. The film, shot in Lagos and Osun State, showcased Davido’s early interest in cinema, though his music career took precedence at the time. Now, with a more established platform and global influence, Davido is ready to make a significant mark as a producer and potentially as an actor. Investing in Nollywood: A Strategic Move Davido’s decision to invest in Nollywood comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, which he described as “going bankruptcy” due to financial challenges. Producing over 2,500 films annually, Nollywood is the world’s second-largest film industry by output, trailing only India’s Bollywood. However, it faces hurdles like limited funding, piracy, and inadequate distribution networks, as noted by industry experts like Nora Awolowo and Sarudzayi Marufu. Davido’s investment could provide a much-needed boost, leveraging his business acumen and global network to elevate production quality and reach. The singer is collaborating with his longtime music video director, Dammy Twitch, to bring his vision to life. “I am investing in a couple of films this year. Shoutout to my director, Dammy Twitch. We have some ideas, series coming,” Davido announced, hinting at both films and series in development. Dammy Twitch, known for directing visually stunning music videos like Davido’s “Jowo” and “Nwa Baby,” brings a creative edge to the partnership, promising projects that could blend Afrobeats flair with cinematic storytelling. Posts on X from outlets like @MobilePunch and @NG_DailyNews amplified the excitement, with fans speculating about the scope of these projects. Davido’s focus on series suggests an eye on streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon, which have increasingly embraced Nollywood content. Films like The Black Book (2023) and A Tribe Called Judah, which grossed ₦1.6 billion at the box office, have shown Nollywood’s potential for global appeal. Davido’s involvement could attract international attention, especially given his connections with artists like Chris Brown and Becky G, featured on 5ive. Acting Ambitions: Davido’s On-Screen Potential Beyond producing, Davido expressed confidence in his acting abilities, pointing to his performances in music videos as proof. “I can also act. I can act for real. I act in my music videos. I acted in ‘Jowo’, ‘Nwa Baby’,” he said, showcasing his charisma and screen presence. His role in John Zerebe and his natural showmanship in videos suggest he could hold his own in Nollywood, an industry known for its vibrant performances and relatable storytelling. Davido’s acting aspirations align with Nollywood’s evolution toward higher production values and diverse genres, from comedies to thrillers like Red Circle. His celebrity status could draw audiences, much like Nollywood stars Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Timini Egbuson have done at events like the Essence Film Festival. Fans on X, including @ParallelFacts, expressed enthusiasm for Davido’s potential on-screen, with some envisioning him in action-packed or romantic roles. The Bigger Picture: Nollywood’s Challenges and Opportunities Davido’s entry into Nollywood comes at a time when the industry is both thriving and facing significant challenges. Producing over 2,500 films yearly and contributing 5% to Nigeria’s GDP, Nollywood employs over a million people directly and indirectly. Yet, as Nora Awolowo noted in a Nairametrics interview, the industry’s reliance on external funding from platforms like Netflix, which recently scaled back investments, underscores the need for local infrastructure. Davido’s investment could help address this gap, supporting projects that prioritize authentic Nigerian stories. The singer’s comments about Nollywood’s financial struggles echo concerns raised by industry leaders. A 2021 UNESCO report highlighted that only 19 African countries offer financial support to filmmakers, leaving Nollywood largely driven by private players. Davido’s resources and global network could attract co-productions, similar to EbonyLife’s deals with Netflix and Sony Pictures. His involvement might also inspire other celebrities to invest, strengthening Nollywood’s economic and cultural impact. Why Davido’s Move Matters Davido’s foray into Nollywood is more than a celebrity side project; it’s a strategic move that could reshape the industry. His background in business marketing, global fanbase, and experience in entertainment give him a unique edge. As Forbes reported in 2023, Davido has long expressed interest in filmmaking and launching a media company to back Nigerian stories, a vision now coming to fruition. His collaboration with Dammy Twitch and potential acting roles signal a hands-on approach, blending his Afrobeats influence with Nollywood’s storytelling prowess. The timing is also significant. Nollywood is aiming for global recognition akin to Afrobeats, with figures like Toyosi Etim-Effiong drawing parallels between the two industries. Davido, a global Afrobeats ambassador, could bridge these worlds, bringing Nigerian cinema to new audiences. His 5ive album, featuring international stars like Victoria Monét and YG Marley, demonstrates his ability to connect cultures, a skill that could translate to film. What to Expect from Davido’s Film Projects While details about Davido’s upcoming films and series remain under wraps, the buzz suggests…