Don’t Be Fooled: Ned Nwoko Reacts to Regina Daniels’ Negative Drug Test, Warns Temporary Abstinence Is Not Sobriety

Senator Ned Nwoko has responded to Regina Daniels’ recent post sharing a negative drug test result from abroad, warning that temporary abstinence does not equate to true sobriety. In a statement released by his communication team, Nwoko said: “DON’T BE FOOLED: TEMPORARY ABSTINENCE IS NOT SOBRIETY. Recovery and accountability are not matters for social media posts or public engagement; they require sustained effort, honesty, and professional support.” The statement questioned the circumstances of the recent test, contrasting it with earlier assessments conducted by independent, reputable centres in Nigeria and South Africa, which reportedly documented prior drug and alcohol use. “Presenting a later negative result as proof that no prior use occurred is misleading and disingenuous. At best, it reflects abstinence over a period of time. It does not invalidate earlier medical reports, nor does it negate what necessitated intervention in the first place,” the statement read. Nwoko also addressed attempts to downplay the seriousness of MDMA, saying: “Renaming it does not alter its chemical composition, its risks, or its impact on judgment and stability.” The communication highlighted that the senator had long supported Daniels with structured rehabilitation and professional therapy, noting that temporary or one-off interventions are insufficient. “Long before this matter became public, Senator Ned Nwoko explored every possible avenue to provide support. Denial is never a foundation for sustainable therapy. The first step is to own up to the existing problem,” it added. The statement further emphasised that any drug test, regardless of location, would be scrutinised in court and must be backed by credible, admissible evidence. “It is not time for drama. Any test conducted anywhere in the world will face court scrutiny and should be ready when subpoenaed, to defend results just like the Nigerian and South African labs,” it concluded. This comes amid ongoing public attention on the couple following disputes over alleged substance use and personal issues, with Nwoko calling for accountability, professional support, and focus on reality rather than social media narratives.

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Nollywood Stars Hold Prayer and Service of Songs for Late Producer Allwell Ademola

Nollywood actors and actresses gathered to pay tribute to their late colleague and producer, Allwell Ademola, with a special prayer and Service of Songs. Videos shared on social media showed stars including Afeez Abiodun, Rotimi Salami, and Kunle Afod participating in the “wrap prayer.” Salami, who was known to be one of Ademola’s closest friends, delivered an emotional tribute during the event. “If there’s anyone Allwell has offended, directly or indirectly, please forgive her and keep praying for her,” Salami said, holding back tears. He added, “The best way to honour her memory is to unite and preserve her legacy. Even though she’s gone, all that she contributed should remain with us and continue to inspire the industry.” The memorial attracted several prominent figures in Nollywood, including Odunlade Adekola, Saheed Balogun, Bolaji Amusan, Abiola Adebayo, Iyabo Ojo, Fausat Balogun, Eniola Ajao, and Fathia Balogun. Many of the attendees wore customised white T-shirts printed with Ademola’s portrait. According to the family’s burial schedule, the Service of Songs was followed by preparations for a candlelight procession and an Artistes’ Night, with closing remarks scheduled for 11:00 pm. Allwell Ademola is set to be laid to rest on Friday at Atan Cemetery in Yaba, Lagos State. She reportedly passed away on December 27 after suffering a heart attack at her home. Nollywood actors and actress come together for the candlelight walk honoring late actress Allwell Ademola 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/KH5p3e9c89 — 𝙀𝙉𝙏𝙀𝙍𝙏𝘼𝙄𝙉𝙈𝙀𝙉𝙏 𝘿𝘼𝙄𝙇𝙔 🇳🇬 (@Entdaily001) January 8, 2026

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AFCON 2025: Wilfred Ndidi Vows to Pay Super Eagles’ Unpaid Bonuses If Government Fails

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has pledged to personally cover outstanding match bonuses for players and officials at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco if the Federal Government does not fulfil the payments before Saturday’s quarter-final clash with Algeria. Ndidi made the commitment in comments shared by BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji on Thursday, despite assurances from the Federal Government that the funds would be released between Thursday and Friday. “I have been encouraging the team to stay focused and continue training for the Algeria game. I’ve been doing this since our second match,” Ndidi said. “I have now assured the players and staff that I will personally pay the bonuses if the authorities fail to do so before Saturday.” He stressed that financial distractions must not affect the team’s performance, noting that he does not want unresolved bonus issues to disrupt preparations. Reports had earlier surfaced that players and officials were considering refusing to travel to Marrakech or attend training sessions over unpaid bonuses for their group-stage matches and the round of 16. In response, the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, announced that group-stage bonuses had been released and had passed all regulatory approvals. She added that new measures had been introduced to prevent further delays. According to her, the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria have streamlined foreign exchange processes to ensure timely payments, with transfers to players’ domiciliary accounts already underway and expected to reflect between Thursday and Friday. The Super Eagles arrived in Marrakech on Thursday and trained ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final against Algeria. Nigeria are chasing a fourth AFCON title, having previously won the tournament in 1980, 1994, and 2013.

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Portable Blasts Wife Bewaji After Begging Her Amid Ongoing Drama With Baby Mama Ashabi

Controversial singer Portable has publicly lashed out at his wife, Bewaji, days after appealing to her during his ongoing clash with baby mama Ashabi. In an emotional rant, the singer insisted he prefers having only one wife but accused Bewaji of neglecting him and pushing him into seeking attention elsewhere. He claimed she failed to check up on him, care for him, or show affection, arguing that such behavior drives men toward other women. According to Portable, when another woman became pregnant for him, he begged Bewaji to forgive him out of respect for their marriage. However, he alleged that she showed no willingness to stay or work things out, despite his efforts. He went further to accuse her of prioritizing her pastors over him, saying she kneels for them but refuses to do the same for her husband, even though he claimed responsibility for training and supporting her. Portable also lectured her on how to keep a man happy, stating that many women outside eagerly care for married men, while wives remain distant and unhappy at home. He warned her to draw closer to him, insisting that although he provides for her financially, she refuses to reciprocate care and attention. The singer even complained about being denied the use of her skincare products, claiming she feared other women would find him attractive, joking that his skin had become darker as a result. The public outburst has sparked widespread reactions online, with many criticizing Portable for airing private marital issues publicly, while others debated his controversial views on marriage, loyalty, and responsibility. This is the first time Portable has publicly dragged his first wife, Bewaji, accusing her of not taking care of him,saying she doesn’t serve him food on time or give him skincare treatments, despite selling creams. Omo! Portable don drag all his family finish.😭 pic.twitter.com/cOxZYLEGwd — 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) January 8, 2026

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DHQ Renames Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day

The Defence Headquarters has officially changed the name of Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, confirmed the change on Thursday, explaining that it reflects the dual purpose of the event: to honour both serving members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and those who lost their lives defending the nation. “January 15 is set aside each year by the Federal Government to recognise the dedication of active personnel and to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the lives and property of its citizens,” Uba said. He added that the annual event is preceded by a week of activities and concludes with a grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony on January 15. “Previously called ‘Armed Forces Remembrance Day,’ the new name, ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day,’ better captures the essence of the occasion — celebrating the living while honouring the fallen,” Uba explained. The general also urged media organisations to adopt the new name in all future coverage. “We call on the media to use ‘Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day’ in reporting. We appreciate their continued support in the fight against insecurity and look forward to deeper collaboration,” he said. Historically, the event has focused mainly on commemorating fallen soldiers, with wreath-laying ceremonies across the country. The renaming reflects the military’s intention to balance remembrance with recognition of active-duty personnel.

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Jeriq Dismisses Claim Igbo Artists Don’t Help Each Other, Praises Flavour and Phyno for Backing His Career

Igbo rapper Jeriq has dismissed claims that Igbo artists don’t support one another in the music industry, calling the idea a “fallacy.” Speaking on Vybz TV’s podcast, Jeriq credited fellow Igbo stars like Flavour and Phyno for playing a major role in his rise, offering collaborations and support without expecting payment. He highlighted his hit song “Oluoma” as an example, noting that Flavour contributed a verse for free. He also revealed that he has worked with Phyno on three tracks, all done without charge. “Numbers don’t lie,” Jeriq said, stressing the significance of these collaborations on his career. He explained: “The narrative that Igbo people don’t help each other is a fallacy. Flavour, for example, has supported many artists, including rising Igbo talents who are now thriving because of his co-sign. I am also a beneficiary of his generosity. My biggest song ever is ‘Oluoma.’ Who gave me the verse? Flavour. He did not collect a dime from me. “When I collaborate with other artists, they usually send contracts and split sheets. But Phyno and Flavour have never charged me. I’ve done three songs with Phyno and one hit with Flavour, all free of charge,” he said. Jeriq also expressed confidence in the future of Igbo music, predicting that Igbo-language songs will one day fill stadiums abroad, similar to what Asake is achieving with Yoruba. “The way Asake is killing it with Yoruba, I believe someone will sell out a stadium in the U.S. or Paris with Igbo language,” he said.

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Pastor Chris Okafor Warns Doris Ogala and VDM to Submit Evidence to Police or Face Criminal Charges

Pastor Chris Okafor’s legal team has directed a firm warning to Nollywood actress Doris Ogala, social media influencer VeryDarkMan (VDM), and several bloggers, urging them to submit proof of their allegations to the Nigerian Police or risk criminal prosecution. Speaking in Lagos, Ife Ajayi, Lead Partner at Sovereignty LP, described the accusations against Pastor Okafor as “false, malicious, and part of a coordinated campaign of cyberbullying, blackmail, and public incitement.” Ajayi explained that the claims, which resurfaced online in December 2025, were initially made by Ogala and later spread by bloggers, all while denying Pastor Okafor the opportunity to respond. The legal team said the controversy began in late 2024 following a business arrangement involving Ogala and a third party. Pastor Okafor reportedly withdrew after determining the deal could not yield the intended outcome. Ogala subsequently claimed he owed her ₦45 million, which Ajayi described as unfounded. “Whenever one allegation failed to gain attention, another emerged. It was a systematic attempt to see what would stick,” he stated. Ajayi also highlighted that Ogala had previously been arrested and charged for cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and issuing threats in connection with similar incidents, a case that was settled out of court. “During that process, she never alleged rape, sexual assault, or an affair. Those claims only surfaced after the settlement was allegedly breached,” he added. Following a resurgence of online attacks, new complaints were filed with the police, resulting in Ogala’s arrest and questioning. Ajayi accused VDM and other online platforms of misusing their influence, warning: “You cannot act as accuser, investigator, prosecutor, and judge simultaneously. Allegations of rape or murder must be reported to law enforcement.” He confirmed that formal criminal complaints have been lodged against those spreading the claims and reiterated that Doris Ogala, VDM, and other bloggers must present their evidence to the police.

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Wizkid Becomes First African Artist to Surpass 10 Billion Spotify Streams

Wizkid has become the first African artist to surpass 10 billion streams on Spotify, cementing his place as a global music icon. The milestone celebrates over a decade of hit records, including collaborations with international stars such as Drake, Beyoncé, and Chris Brown. His contribution to Drake’s “One Dance” alone has amassed nearly 4 billion streams, while his hit “Essence” has added more than 334 million streams. Wizkid’s achievement underscores the growing global influence of Afrobeats, outpacing fellow African stars like Burna Boy with 9.5 billion streams, Rema at 5.6 billion, Tems with 4.4 billion, and Tyla at 3.6 billion. The feat highlights how digital streaming has helped propel African music onto the world stage, reaching millions of listeners worldwide. The top five most-streamed African artists on Spotify now are: Wizkid – 10 billion Burna Boy – 9.5 billion Rema – 5.6 billion Tems – 4.4 billion Tyla – 3.6 billion

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