Top Entertainment Stories of the Week: Saidi Balogun’s Daughter Passes, Odumeje’s Shocking Confession, and More
Saidi Balogun Mourns Daughter’s Passing
Nollywood actor Saidi Balogun took to Instagram on Saturday to share the tragic news of his daughter, Zeenat’s, death. Posting a somber candle-lit image, the actor expressed his grief. Fellow actors like Ronke Oshodi Oke and Fathia Williams, Balogun’s former wife, confirmed the news and offered condolences. Ronke Oshodi wrote, “No words can ease the pain of losing someone so precious,” while Fathia shared a heartfelt “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un” (a traditional Islamic expression of mourning). The cause of Zeenat’s death remains undisclosed.
Reminisce Reflects on Breakthrough Album
Rapper Reminisce revealed during an interview on the “I Said What I Said” podcast that his 2013 album Alaga Ibile was the turning point in his career. The album, which sold over 13 million units, marked his rise to fame, with hit tracks like “Daddy Mi” featuring Davido and “Eleniyan” with Wizkid. Reminisce credited this success as the moment that significantly changed his life.
Toyin Abraham Denies Owing Fashion Designer
Popular actress Toyin Abraham responded to claims from fashion designer @stitchesbyandra that she, along with Annie Idibia and Gabriel Anthony, owed millions for borrowed dresses used during the production of Malaika. Abraham denied the accusation in an Instagram post, explaining that the dresses were returned and that the debt was misunderstood.
Lateef Adedimeji on Casting Mr. Macaroni and Ibrahim Chatta
Actor and filmmaker Lateef Adedimeji revealed in an interview that he specifically chose Mr. Macaroni and Ibrahim Chatta for key roles in his 2024 historical drama, Lisabi: The Uprising. The movie, which revisits the Lisabi Rebellion in Abeokuta, features Mr. Macaroni as Lisabi’s best friend and Chatta as Olori Ilari.
Ogogo’s Daughter Opens Up on ‘Sex for Roles’ in Nollywood
Kira Taiwo, daughter of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan (Ogogo), spoke about her decision to focus on skit-making rather than acting, citing the prevalence of requests for sexual favors in exchange for roles in the Yoruba film industry. Kira shared that she chooses a slower, integrity-based path in her career.
Odumeje Shares Dark Past of Crime
Controversial pastor Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, popularly known as Odumeje, made a startling confession about his involvement in armed robbery at the age of 14. Odumeje shared that growing up on the rough streets of Onitsha led him into crime, but his mother helped guide him toward Christianity and a life of faith.
Madam Saje and Kanayo O Kanayo to Receive BON Lifetime Achievement Awards
Veteran Nollywood actors Madam Saje and Kanayo O Kanayo will be honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards at the 2024 Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards. The event will take place in Ilorin, Kwara State, in November. Other honorees include Toyin Adegbola, Madam Kofo, and Adebayo Salami.
Yemi Solade Celebrates 21 Years of Marriage
Actor Yemi Solade recently reflected on his 21-year marriage, attributing its success to his wife, Hannah. The actor praised her for her patience, selflessness, and strong support throughout their relationship, describing her as the backbone of their enduring bond.
Ali Baba’s Take on Nigeria’s Political System
Comedian Ali Baba, during a podcast interview, expressed his decision to stay out of politics, citing flaws in Nigeria’s constitution and governance. He called for reforms in the system, stating that even strong leaders would struggle under the current structure.
LASEPA Takes Action Against Cubana Chief Priest’s Nightclub
The Lagos Environmental and Protection Agency (LASEPA) has taken enforcement action against Cubana Chief Priest’s nightclub for traffic violations caused by illegally parked vehicles. The agency confiscated 28 number plates and announced that violators would face court charges.
Wizkid’s Father Advises Him on Fan Rivalry
Wizkid’s father, Munir Balogun, advised his son to ignore provocations from fans of Davido, focusing instead on his career. This came after Wizkid reignited his feud with Davido on social media.
Jade Osiberu Faces Backlash for Criticizing President Tinubu
Filmmaker Jade Osiberu faced criticism online after voicing her dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s economy, despite previously supporting President Tinubu. Netizens uncovered an old post where she had expressed doubt about Peter Obi’s ability to lead Nigeria, leading to accusations of inconsistency.
