Entertainment
“Every Day with You Has Been a Gift” – Olori Ashley Celebrates Ooni of Ife as He Turns 50

Olori Ashley, the fourth wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, is celebrating her husband as he marks his 50th birthday today, October 17th. In a heartfelt tribute on her Instagram page, she referred to him as her “crown jewel” and expressed that every moment spent with him has been a precious gift.
She conveyed her blessings for sharing this significant milestone with the Ooni, raising a toast to the memories they have created together and the beautiful moments yet to come. Despite her love and well-wishes, she expressed sadness over not being able to celebrate in person, though she noted that her absence was for a good cause.
In her post, she wrote:
> “Happy 50th Birthday Olowo Ori Mi, my CROWN JEWEL, my love! Every day with you has been a gift, and I’m so blessed to share this milestone with you. Here’s to the memories we’ve made and the beautiful moments still to come. I love you more than words can say. Shame I’m not there today, but it’s for a good cause.
> I thought to do it differently today: Read less and listen more to the lovely tribute to my husband, the paramount ruler of the Yoruba kingdom, Oonirisa, Oba ton gba idobale awon Oba. Ninolowo Baba ADEMAKINWA, Ikoyi Esho mi Oko AFOLASADE @ooniadimulaife.
> With all my heart,
> Your Wife and Queen,
> Her Imperial Majesty
> Olori Ashley AFolasade Ojaja-Ogunwusi
> Yeye Omi Oodua.”
Recently, it was reported that Olori Ashley and the Ooni welcomed their first child, a baby boy. The queen reflected on the challenges they faced over the years, including the loss of twins last year, but remained grateful for the faithfulness of God in their lives.
In a follow-up post, she addressed the backlash received for referring to her newborn as a crown prince, clarifying that he holds princely status from both her lineage and that of his father.
Last October, Olori Ashley shared a collage celebrating their first anniversary, emphasizing her deepening love for the Ooni and her gratitude for his presence in her life.
Entertainment
Why I won’t sign up-and-coming artistes – Tiwa Savage

Nigerian singer-songwriter and actress Tiwa Savage has revealed that she has no plans to sign upcoming artists, citing the stress and responsibility involved in managing musicians. Instead, she aims to create an ecosystem where African artists can thrive independently.
Speaking in an interview with Forbes Africa on Thursday, Savage explained that handling artists can be overwhelming. “Everyone always asks me, ‘When will you sign an artiste?’ I don’t think I have the gift to sign another artiste, because artistes are stressful. I could just be sleeping, and then I will wake up and my artist is trending for something else,” she said.
Rather than signing musicians, Savage is focused on launching a music school that will equip artists with the skills they need before signing with record labels that can properly support them.
She also emphasized the importance of African artists building their own industry instead of seeking validation abroad. “Why are we trying to break into another market? We should build our own to be the one others try to break into,” she said, highlighting the need for infrastructure, affordable data, and investment in Africa’s entertainment industry.
Beyond music, the ‘Somebody’s Son’ hitmaker is expanding her portfolio, having made her executive producer debut in 2024 with Water and Garri. Looking ahead, she is setting her sights on greater ambitions. “I want to go into my mogul era – billionaire Tiwa Savage,” she declared.
Entertainment
Ayra Starr Makes History at 2025 MOBO Awards, Wins Best African and Best International Music Act

By Abigail Philip David
Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has emerged victorious at the 2025 MOBO Awards, winning the Best African Music Act category ahead of fellow Nigerian artists Asake and Tems, as well as South Africa’s Tyla.
Her win makes her the first female artist in 16 years to claim the award, marking a significant milestone in her career.
In addition to this achievement, Ayra Starr also took home the prestigious Best International Music Act award, triumphing over global stars like Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, and Latto.
The ceremony, held in Newcastle, was hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi and celebrated the best of Black music and culture.
During her acceptance speech, a visibly emotional and overwhelmed Ayra Starr expressed her gratitude:
“Okay, this is my first MOBO. And this is the first time I’m winning a MOBO Award—make some noise! I am actually shaking right now. I am actually nervous.”
She went on to thank her supporters, her team, and her label, MAVIN Records, alongside her producers and family:
“Thank you so much to everybody who supported me. Thank you to my team—my amazing MOB-STARS. My amazing brothers who make music with me—the producers in the studio—my studio partners in crime; my label—MAVINS Records, Embryo, my mummy… Thank you so much. Thank you, MOBOs.”
Ayra Starr’s double victory further cements her status as one of Africa’s leading musical talents on the global stage.
Entertainment
Portable Apologizes to Ogun State Government, Seeks Divine Intervention

By Abigail Philip David
Controversial street singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has publicly apologized to the Ogun State government following recent legal troubles.
For weeks, the singer has been entangled in a dispute with the Ogun State Police Command, which declared him wanted on charges of conspiracy, serious assault, armed violence, public disturbance, and attempted murder. The allegations stemmed from claims that he recruited armed thugs to carry out attacks.
In response, Portable initially denied the accusations, claiming they were an attempt to bring him down. He challenged the police to present evidence and labeled them as unjust.
However, in a recent Instagram post, the singer shifted his tone, praying for divine intervention. He pleaded with God to turn his struggles into blessings, protect his family, and send him a helper. Expressing remorse, Portable admitted that fear drove him to flee.
“Ogun State Government, I’m sorry. It was fear that made me run. Thank God the police are our friends and family. God is everywhere—please forgive me. I believe in You. Any disappointment is a blessing,” he wrote.
Earlier this month, Portable had a heated clash with authorities after the government sealed his unfinished building and hotel over illegal development without proper approval. The incident led to the detention of some of his workers and customers.
Following the ordeal, he canceled his London show, citing the need to protect his family and properties. Over the weekend, he expressed frustration, lamenting that despite his contributions to Ogun State, he felt unappreciated.
In a desperate appeal, Portable even called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene on his behalf, urging him to plead with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun. He claimed that his troubles were politically motivated, stemming from his support for a political figure, Yayi.
Despite the controversy, the singer remains hopeful, relying on faith to navigate his challenges.
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