Entertainment
Nollywood Stars Mourn the Passing of Mr. Ibu
The Nollywood community is engulfed in sorrow following the tragic demise of beloved veteran actor John Okafor, famously known as Mr. Ibu.
Reports emerged on Saturday evening confirming the passing of the veteran actor, who had been battling for his life for several months. According to a healthcare worker, Mr. Ibu succumbed to his illness, marking the end of an era in Nollywood.
Emeka Rollas, the president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, confirmed the heartbreaking news, citing Cardiac Arrest as the cause of death.
The news of Mr. Ibu’s passing has left the industry in mourning, as he was adored by many and contributed to making our childhoods memorable. Nollywood icons such as Nkem Owoh (Osuofia), Patience Ozokwo, Destiny Etiko, Mike Ezurounye, Chizzy Alichi, Zubby Michael, Helen Paul, Uche Elendu, and others took to their Instagram pages to express their grief and pay tribute to the late actor.
Uche Elendu expressed her shock and sorrow, lamenting the irreplaceable loss and praising Mr. Ibu’s legacy. Patience Ozokwo shared a scripture verse and reflected on the eternal peace Mr. Ibu now enjoys.
Nkem Owoh (Osuofia) fondly remembered Mr. Ibu and assured that he will always hold a special place in their hearts. Helen Paul reflected on the fleeting nature of life and paid her respects to the legendary actor.
Zubby Michael, Destiny Etiko, Chizzy Alichi, Mike Ezurounye, and May Edochie also shared heartfelt messages of condolence, highlighting Mr. Ibu’s impact and the profound loss felt by the entire Nollywood community.
The passing of Mr. Ibu marks the end of an era in Nigerian entertainment, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished forever.
It’s worth recalling that Mr. Ibu had faced health challenges in the past, with the public rallying support for his medical expenses. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries, his health continued to deteriorate, ultimately leading to his untimely demise.
In January, Mr. Ibu was discharged from the hospital, bringing hope to his fans. Ken Erics, his junior colleague, paid him a visit at his home, symbolizing the love and respect Mr. Ibu garnered throughout his illustrious career.
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.
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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