Chinyere Udoma Reflects on 30-Year Friendship with Odumeje, Sparks Online Buzz

Chinyere Udoma Reflects on 30-Year Friendship with Odumeje, Sparks Online Buzz

Popular gospel singer Chinyere Udoma has opened up about her long-standing friendship with controversial cleric Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere widely known as Odumeje

In a recent statement, Udoma revealed that their bond stretches over 30 years. She described Odumeje as a source of support and encouragement during a time when she was still largely unknown in the music industry.

She credited him for helping shape both her career and spiritual journey. On the public’s reaction to their relationship, Udoma expressed disappointment over the criticism surrounding their association.

“Odumeje has been a friend and mentor for decades. My growth and blessings today are in part due to his influence,” she said, emphasizing that their connection is rooted in a long history of friendship and shared spiritual values.

Odumeje’s response to Udoma’s statement quickly became a trending topic online. Many noted his pride in the singer’s accomplishments.

“Odumeje seems to be a genuinely kind person and in life, that’s what truly matters. This is a powerful reminder that the seeds we plant in others often yield the greatest returns. Investing in people is never wasted, one day, those seeds will grow, and you’ll reap the rewards of the impact you’ve made,” she added.

Their friendship highlights how mentorship and genuine support can shape careers and personal growth, leaving a lasting impression on both individuals and the public who follow their journeys.

Chinyere Udoma’s reflections showcase the value of long-term mentorship and friendship. Fans can expect continued admiration for the bond she shares with Odumeje, which has clearly influenced her career and spiritual path.

Police Arrest 11 More Suspects Over Ozoro Sexual Assault Incident

Police Arrest 11 More Suspects Over Ozoro Sexual Assault Incident

The Delta State Police Command has arrested eleven more suspects in connection with the sexual assault incident reported in Ozoro, raising the total number of people in custody to fifteen.

The incident, which happened in Oramudu Quarters in Ozoro on Thursday, March 19, drew public attention after disturbing reports and videos surfaced online.

In a statement released on Saturday, March 21, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team was directed to carry out a detailed investigation into the matter.

Edafe explained that the team carefully reviewed video footage and gathered intelligence, which helped officers identify and arrest more suspects. Those arrested include Samson Atukpodo, Steven Ovie, Ugbevo Samson, Afoke Akporobaro, and Evidence Oguname, along with six others.

He confirmed that the latest arrests have increased the total number of suspects currently in custody to fifteen.

The police also addressed claims linking the incident to a cultural practice. According to the statement, “The Command reiterates that preliminary findings indicate that the unfortunate incident was perpetrated by criminal elements who exploited the situation to engage in acts of sexual violence, which are in no way representative of any legitimate cultural practice.”

The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Aina Adesola, strongly condemned the acts and assured the public that justice would be served.

“The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, condemns these acts in totality and reassures the public that the Command remains resolute in its determination to ensure that all those involved are identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law. Members of the public, particularly victims and witnesses, are once again encouraged to come forward with credible information that will aid ongoing investigations. The Command assures that all information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality.”the statement in part reads

Police say investigations are still ongoing and more arrests may follow as efforts continue to bring everyone involved to justice.

The Delta State Police have made progress in the Ozoro case with more arrests, but investigations are still ongoing. Authorities are urging victims and witnesses to speak up as they work to ensure justice is served.

Odunnayo Akintomide to Begin Six-Month UK Gospel and Juju Music Tour in April 2026

Odunnayo Akintomide to Begin Six-Month UK Gospel and Juju Music Tour in April 2026

Nigerian gospel and juju singer Odunnayo Akintomide is set to take her music beyond the country’s borders as she prepares for a six-month tour of the United Kingdom. The tour is scheduled to begin on April 1, 2026, and will run until September 2, 2026.

The Ekiti State-born artiste, widely known by her stage name Odunnayo, will travel with her nine-member band. The performances will focus on reaching Nigerian communities living in the UK, with shows planned across major cities.

According to her band manager, Lawal Taiwo Tomiwa, the tour will feature live shows in halls and event centres. The aim is to promote Nigerian gospel and juju music to a wider international audience.

The tour will open with a performance titled *Welcome Dance* at Success Hall on Old Kent Road in London. This will be followed by a Praise Night at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Fruitful Land Parish in Tilbury, Essex, on April 5. Another live session is set for April 7 at TNLCM Media Hall in Dagenham, Essex.

Organisers say the tour is being promoted by Topnotch Global Venture International Limited in the UK. They also revealed that the trip will give the artiste and her team the chance to record and release a new music video while abroad.

Odunnayo’s journey in music began in the church, where she trained as a lead vocalist. Over time, she developed a style that blends gospel and juju sounds. She has become known for composing songs used in church programmes, including annual themes and special events within the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

She launched her professional music career in 2017 with her debut album *Fill Me Oh Lord*. Since then, she has remained active in live shows and studio recordings.

Beyond music, she also has a strong academic background. She studied Business Administration at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic in Ikot Ekpene and is currently pursuing a degree in Public Administration at the University of Lagos. She is also a member of the RCCG mass choir and is affiliated with the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture.

Odunnayo is also the convener of *Atmosphere of Worship*, a popular gospel event held monthly and annually. Over the years, she has shared the stage with notable gospel artistes such as Adeyinka Alaseyori, Bukola Bekes, Mercy Chinwo, and Chigozie Wisdom.

Odunnayo Akintomide’s upcoming UK tour marks an important step in her growing career. With multiple performances lined up and plans for new music, the tour is expected to strengthen her presence among international audiences and expand the reach of Nigerian gospel and juju music.

Bisola Aiyeola Opens Up on Struggles of Becoming a Single Mother

Bisola Aiyeola Opens Up on Struggles of Becoming a Single Mother

Nigerian actress and reality star Bisola Aiyeola has opened up about the emotional struggles she faced when she became a single mother. Speaking in an interview with Tope Olowoni, she shared how the experience affected her mentally and emotionally at the time.

Aiyeola said she felt deep fear and shame when she found out she was pregnant outside of marriage. She explained that her reaction was shaped by her family background, as her own mother was also a single parent. This made her worry that the same pattern might repeat itself in her daughter’s life.

At the time, she was engaged, but the relationship did not lead to marriage. This added to her concerns about the future and how she would handle motherhood alone. She described the pregnancy as “so shameful,” pointing to both societal expectations and her personal fears.

The actress also faced financial pressure, which made the situation harder. She said adjusting to motherhood was not easy, especially as she struggled with breastfeeding and accepting her new reality. The early days, she noted, were overwhelming.

Despite these challenges, Aiyeola said she slowly began to accept her situation. Over time, she found strength in raising her daughter and started to see the experience in a more positive light.

Now at 40, she reflects on that period as a turning point in her life. She said the journey helped her grow and deepened the bond she shares with her child.

Bisola Aiyeola’s story highlights the emotional weight many people carry in silence. While her journey into single motherhood began with fear and uncertainty, it eventually became a source of strength and growth. Her experience shows that difficult beginnings can lead to meaningful personal change.

Burna Boy Sets New Record With Highest-Grossing Concert by an African Artist

Burna Boy Sets New Record With Highest-Grossing Concert by an African Artist

Burna Boy has reached a major milestone in his career, setting a new record for concert earnings by an African artist. The Grammy-winning star achieved this feat during his recent “No Sign of Weakness” tour, further cementing his place on the global music stage.

According to Touring Data, the singer’s tour in Oceania has become the highest-grossing by an African act in the region. The platform shared on X that “@burnaboy’s “No Sign of Weakness” is officially the highest-grossing tour by an African artist in Oceania’s history, with $3.1 million from 31,000 tickets sold across 4 shows.”

A key moment came during the Sydney stop of the tour. Burna Boy performed at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, where the show alone brought in $1.117 million. The strong turnout highlighted his growing international appeal and ability to draw large crowds far from home.

The “No Sign of Weakness” tour covered 20 shows across three continents, including North America, Europe, and Oceania. In Australia alone, four shows attracted about 30,946 fans and generated a combined $3.1 million in revenue.

This achievement adds to Burna Boy’s growing list of global successes. It also shows how African artists are gaining more recognition and filling major venues worldwide. His performances continue to draw thousands of fans, proving the rising demand for African music on the international stage.

Burna Boy’s latest record marks another big step for African music globally. As more artists from the continent tour internationally, such milestones could become more common. For now, his success stands as a strong example of how far African music has come and where it is heading next.

Funke Akindele’s Record Nollywood Hit “Behind the Scenes” Heads to Netflix in April

Funke Akindele’s Record Nollywood Hit “Behind the Scenes” Heads to Netflix in April

Nollywood star Funke Akindele has reached a new milestone as her blockbuster film *Behind the Scenes* prepares to debut on Netflix in April 2026. The move comes after the movie’s record-breaking success in cinemas, where it became the highest-grossing Nollywood film ever.

The film first hit Nigerian cinemas on December 12, 2025, and quickly drew massive crowds. It went on to earn an impressive ₦2.7 billion at the box office. This placed it ahead of every other Nollywood title in history and marked a major moment for African cinema. The success also extended beyond Nigeria, with strong performances in international markets such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, and Canada.

Directed and produced by Funke Akindele under the Funke Ayotunde Akindele Network (FAAN), the film was co-directed by Tunde Olaoye and distributed by FilmOne.

*Behind the Scenes* tells the story of Aderonke Faniran, played by Scarlet Gomez. She is a kind-hearted mother of two and a successful real estate businesswoman who is admired for her generosity. However, her willingness to always give to others begins to take a toll on her personal life, as people around her start to take advantage of her kindness.

The story touches on important themes such as family pressure, sacrifice, betrayal, and emotional balance. These themes connected strongly with audiences and sparked conversations about everyday struggles many people face.

The film features a strong lineup of Nollywood stars, including Tobi Bakre, Iyabo Ojo, Uzor Arukwe, Mr Macaroni, and Uche Montana. Their performances helped bring depth and emotion to the film, earning praise from viewers.

After a successful run in cinemas, the movie is now set for a wider audience. Netflix will begin streaming *Behind the Scenes* on April 3, 2026. This marks Funke Akindele’s first project on the platform after her earlier partnership with Prime Video.

The journey of *Behind the Scenes* from cinema success to global streaming highlights the growing reach of Nollywood. With its upcoming Netflix release, the film is set to reach even more viewers around the world. Audiences who missed it in theaters will now have the chance to experience the story from home.

Broda Shaggi Hospitalised After Being Shot While Filming in Ogun

Broda Shaggi Hospitalised After Being Shot While Filming in Ogun

Popular Nigerian skit maker and actor Broda Shaggi has been hospitalised after he was reportedly shot while filming a scene in Ogun State.

The entertainer, whose real name is Samuel Perry, was said to be shooting a video around the Sango Ota Bridge when the incident happened. Reports say he suffered a gunshot injury to his leg.

He was first taken to a hospital in the Alakuko area of Lagos for treatment. He was later moved to another medical facility located in the Government Residential Area of Ikeja for further care.

According to a report by The Punch, the police were alerted after the hospital received a patient with a gunshot wound.

The spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that officers were quickly sent to the hospital after receiving the report.

“The hospital contacted the police to report that a gunshot victim had been brought to their facility,” the police spokesperson said.

“Detectives and a patrol team were immediately mobilised to the hospital, where they discovered that the victim was a skit maker and social media influencer popularly known as Broda Shaggy.

“He was seen on a stretcher with an injury to his thigh. The location of the incident is in Sango-Ota and not within our jurisdiction, but the investigation is ongoing.”

Police explained that although the shooting happened outside Lagos State, authorities have begun efforts to identify and arrest those involved.

The condition of Broda Shaggi has not been fully disclosed, but the incident has drawn attention because of his popularity in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Authorities say investigations are underway, and more details may emerge as the case develops.

Tonto Dikeh Foundation Donates 10 Laptops to Abuja School, Gives Widower ₦1m Support

Tonto Dikeh Foundation Donates 10 Laptops to Abuja School, Gives Widower ₦1m Support

The Tonto Dikeh Foundation has donated ten laptops to students of Junior Secondary School Durumi II in Abuja as part of efforts to improve digital learning in public schools.

The donation is the first phase of a project aimed at providing 30 laptops to three schools. Each school will receive ten laptops under the foundation’s evangelism outreach programme.

Founder of the organisation and Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh said the first set of laptops has already been delivered to the school. She explained that the project is designed to give students access to modern technology and help them build important digital skills.

According to the foundation, access to digital devices allows students to develop technology knowledge, carry out research, and learn beyond the traditional classroom setting.

The organisation said the programme is also meant to reduce the digital gap many public schools face by giving students tools that can support learning, creativity, and preparation for higher education and future careers.

Dikeh noted that the remaining 20 laptops will be distributed to two other schools in the coming weeks as part of the foundation’s ongoing support for digital education.

Aside from the educational support, the foundation also helped a family connected to the school.

During a recent evangelism outreach, the group promised to support the education of a student in JSS1 until he completes university.

The foundation later returned to the school to fulfil that promise. The student received important school supplies, and financial arrangements were made to support his education through junior secondary school.

While speaking with the boy’s father, who is raising three children alone after losing his wife, the foundation also offered additional help.

The widower received ₦1,000,000 to help him start a small business so he can better provide for his children and support their schooling.

The foundation said its work focuses on supporting vulnerable families while also improving access to education.

The laptop donation and financial support highlight the foundation’s effort to combine education and humanitarian assistance. By helping schools gain digital tools and supporting struggling families, the organisation hopes to create better opportunities for young Nigerians.

Abiodun Ayoyinka Opens Up About Hardship, Says ‘Papa Ajasco’ Trademark Limits His Opportunities

Abiodun Ayoyinka Opens Up About Hardship, Says ‘Papa Ajasco’ Trademark Limits His Opportunities

Abiodun Ayoyinka Speaks on Hardship, Says ‘Papa Ajasco’ Trademark Limits His Opportunities

Veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has opened up about the difficult reality he has faced in recent years, revealing that the famous character that made him popular has also limited his career opportunities.

Ayoyinka is widely known for playing the comic father figure in the long running family sitcom Papa Ajasco and Company. The show became a household favourite across Nigeria and made the actor a familiar face to many viewers.

However, the veteran performer recently shared that life behind the scenes has been far from easy.

In an emotional interview with internet personality Lucky Udu, Ayoyinka explained that the character “Papa Ajasco” is officially registered by the production company. Because of that, he cannot freely use the identity for advertisements, endorsements, or personal projects.

“That particular character has been registered,” he said. “Anybody that wants to use me outside, they want to use me with the character with everything that I have. But it has never been easy for me. That’s why you don’t see me on adverts. You don’t see me on billboards and all that. So it’s painful.”

According to the actor, the situation has prevented him from accepting several opportunities that could have helped him financially.

“I don’t have the right. I can’t use the name unless I go and take permission,” Ayoyinka stated. “Because of this, I have limited opportunities.”

Ayoyinka also spoke about life after leaving public service. He said he retired about five years ago from his role with the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture.

Since then, he said things have been very difficult.

“Things have never been okay,” he told his interviewer. “No car in my home, no house of my own. I don’t have a car.”

The veteran actor used the moment to speak honestly about his current situation and appeal to fans who have followed his career for many years.

Abiodun Ayoyinka’s story sheds light on the challenges some veteran entertainers face after their time in the spotlight. While his portrayal of Papa Ajasco remains one of the most memorable characters on Nigerian television, the actor says trademark restrictions and limited opportunities have made life difficult since his retirement. Many fans will now be watching to see what support or new opportunities may come his way.

Uche Ogbodo Speaks on BBL Surgery Risks After Death of Nigerian Woman Jessica Elena

Uche Ogbodo Speaks on BBL Surgery Risks After Death of Nigerian Woman Jessica Elena

Uche Ogbodo Speaks on BBL Surgery Risks After Woman’s Death

Nollywood actress **Uche Ogbodo** has shared her thoughts on the risks linked to Brazilian Butt Lift surgery following the reported death of a Nigerian woman, Jessica Elena.

The issue has sparked concern on social media, with many people discussing the safety of cosmetic procedures such as BBL. Ogbodo responded in a video posted on her Instagram page, where she spoke about the fears many people have about the surgery.

According to the actress, while BBL is often seen as risky, it is important to remember that every medical procedure carries some level of danger. She said people should be careful and well informed before deciding to undergo any surgery.

Ogbodo urged anyone considering cosmetic surgery to do proper research and speak with qualified and experienced doctors before going ahead with the procedure.

She also stressed the importance of post surgery care, explaining that infections after an operation can lead to serious health problems if not treated quickly.

Speaking about the recent death, she said, **“A few days ago, Nigerians went into mourning because we lost a beautiful woman, Jessica, which was very sad and painful, but who are we to question God? People have been tagging me in this recent case of a lady who died and saying I am always supporting it. A lot of people tagged me in that video because the cause of death is BBL, but life can happen to anyone.**

**“Yes, BBL is risky, but tell me, what surgery is not risky? People die every day, even from the simplest procedures. It’s not entirely bad. It could be her turn today, it could be someone else’s turn tomorrow. Just make sure you are educated about the kind of surgery you are about to undergo. Make sure you do not get an infection after the surgery. If it gets infected, make sure to find a solution to solve that infection.”**

The actress added that cosmetic surgery should not automatically be seen as negative. She believes the key factors are proper planning and choosing the right medical professionals.

She explained further, **“BBL may be considered a risky surgery, but that does not make it a bad surgery. What matters most is proper research, a qualified surgeon, and doing it for the right reasons.**

**For many women, especially after childbirth, the body changes in ways that exercise alone may not fully restore. A Mummy Makeover can be a powerful decision for women who want to reclaim their confidence, feel comfortable in their bodies again, and look as beautiful as they feel inside.**

**“Motherhood is beautiful, but so is choosing to take care of yourself. You deserve to feel good, look good, and love the woman you see in the mirror”.**

Her comments come as discussions continue online about the safety of cosmetic surgeries and the need for proper medical guidance.

The death of Jessica Elena has once again raised questions about the safety of cosmetic procedures like Brazilian Butt Lift surgery. While acknowledging the risks involved, Uche Ogbodo believes people should focus on proper research, qualified doctors, and careful post surgery care before making such decisions.

The conversation around cosmetic surgery safety is likely to continue as more people share their experiences and opinions.