There was a popular song when I was a child titled ‘Come and see American wonder.’ It was not so much about the celebration of the perceived wonders of the United States, US. It was more about the incredulous things emanating from ‘God’s own country’.

Some of us thought that as far as the US was concerned, we had seen it all. But the bizarre ways of President Donald Trump and the antics of his fellow billionaires like Ellon Musk, tell us: ‘You ain’t seen nothing yet’; the worst is yet to come.

How does a rational being wake up in his home and say he is donating the population of another country, 10,726 kilometres away, to other countries? Who, but a clown, would say he wants to turn a land like Palestine, which many had fought and died for, into an holiday resort, perhaps into a private golf resort?

But Trump must not be taken for granted because, in his mind, he might have mapped out Gaza, the hotels he hopes to build on the corpses of the Palestinians, and the private profits he and his fellow business people hope to make by seizing the territory.

Nobody should take the American President for a clown. Or if he truly is, then he is a deadly one willing to carry out genocide for the profits he hopes to make.

This is not the first time he wants to donate lands, that he does not own, to other people or business. He has done more bizarre things. Four years ago, as he was leaving office, Trump issued an American Presidential Declaration donating an African country and Member of the African Union, the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, SADR, better known as Western Sahara, to Morocco.

This year, he says he has renamed the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of America. That is a name that has been in existence for over four centuries. In trying to implement this brainwave, Trump’s leg men gathered information that some media were not adhering to the pronouncement. So the Associated Press, AP, reporter was barred from the White House because the news agency insists on sticking to the international name.

He also renamed the 100-year-old Panama Canal owned by Panama as the American Canal. In January 2025, he threatened to seize the canal for allegedly making too much profit. Then a month later, he repeated his threat to invade and take over the canal but this time, for allegedly allowing the Chinese to run the canal.

He also threatened to seize Greenland from Denmark for America’s “economic security”. Trump has also asked neigbouring Canada to become the 51st state of the US and erase its 5,525-mile long border with it. He said of Canada: “If people wanted to play the game right, it would be 100 per cent certain that they’d become a state.”

Interestingly, Canada with a land area of 3,855, 103 square miles is bigger than the US with 3,794,083 square miles. So, if Trump’s clowning is to be taken on face value, USA should join Canada and become its 11th province.

However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in February 2025 warned his country’s business leaders to take Trump’s threats seriously. He told them the Trump administration is “very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those (Trump) has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country.”

Trudeau who had dealt with Trump in his first term as US President, added: “Not only does the Trump administration know how many critical minerals we have, but that may be even why they keep talking about absorbing us and making us the 51st state.”

Trump had gone on to impose a 25 per cent additional tariff on Canada and neigbhouring Mexico which, he says, he has suspended for one month. Meanwhile, he has imposed an additional 10 per cent tariff on imports from China.

In his first seven weeks in office, the Trump administration rounded up 14,000 undocumented immigrants some of who were packed into aircraft and dumped in their countries of origin.

He has also ordered the construction of another immigrants detention centre in the Guantanamo Bay, a Cuban territory US has occupied since 1898. The administration says it is targeting 600,000 immigrants whom it alleges have criminal records.

He is also working hard to cripple the American public sector. He sacked more than a dozen prosecutors who worked on cases involving the January 6 riot. He is also scrutinising thousands of Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, agents who investigated the riot. So, he has no qualms punishing public servants he perceives as enemies, even when they were merely doing the job they are paid to do.

He is also dismantling the US Agency for International Development, USAID, in such a cruel manner that hundreds of its staff posted across the world have no idea what to do. They are virtually abandoned abroad with their families.

Today, US democracy has delivered what is perhaps its most unique verdict and most powerful President since its July 4, 1776 Declaration of Independence. Trump, operating outside the majority Republican Party, seized the party with his Make America Great Again, MAGA, group which is now the dominant faction.

He won both the popular and Electoral College votes. The party he dominates, controls both the Senate and House of Representatives. Additionally, his party has a 6-3 majority in the Supreme Court. So, perhaps for the first time in US history, one man has control of the Executive, Congress and Supreme Court. But for the fact that this is happening in the US, it would have been called a dictatorship.

Conscious of his powers, Trump is even by-passing the Congress and, side-tracking the US constitution by trying to run the US based on Executive Orders. Given their number, it would be a miracle if he can remember the Orders he is signing. 

Having cornered and virtually conquered his country, Trump is trying to rule the world with sanctions and threats. Europeans who have always been allies of the US are on edge. They are not sure what to expect. So they are meeting to plan some resistance, and possible retaliation if he imposes tariffs and sanctions on them. He will certainly be resisted, but he can do much damage.

Trump is a product of American democracy; the American electorate have to live with their choice, may be for the next four years. Africans say if you give birth to a problem-child, you have to take responsibility for him. Americans have the duty to rein in Trump before he does incalculable damage to both the country and humanity.

In every democratic society, having free voices is not just crucial; it is necessary. These voices, often bold and unafraid, are needed to challenge and question the norms, and oftentimes, the push and criticism lead to the call for changes that benefit everyone. These voices help educate and inform the public, bringing attention to issues that might otherwise be ignored. Owing to the duality of nature, these voices, in various circumstances, may be advantageous or otherwise as a reflection of the ideas by which the voices push for a cause. 

A society that values and respects these voices creates a space for sharing, debating, and improving ideas. This process makes actual progress, and leaders are held accountable. People like Dele Farotimi and others who call out for truth, equity, and injustices are vital components in this mix, as they are known to use their platforms to call out injustices and inspire others to demand a better and fairer system.

Dele Farotimi’s name, for years, has become synonymous with the fight for justice, good governance, and systemic reform in Nigeria. He is a lawyer, author, and political activist who has spent much of his life identifying lapses and calling for reforms within Nigeria’s political and legal systems. His forthright nature has made him a famous critic of Nigeria’s governance, and his relentless pursuit of social change has made him one of the most critical voices in contemporary Nigerian discourse.

Born on April 27, 1968, Dele Farotimi was raised in a Nigerian society that had long struggled with inequality, ethnic biases, and corruption. Hence, it is unsurprising that a man like Farotimi made determined efforts to confront these systemic problems head-on. At a young age, he began his academic journey at Fiditi Grammar School in Oyo, Southwest Nigeria, before moving to Lagos State University (LASU) for tertiary education. All this while, Farotimi had begun to hone his skills for advocacy, earning a law degree and becoming the President of the Student Union in 1994–1995. His involvement in student politics at the time gave him an early taste of what power and responsibility that comes with leadership could look like as a precursor to his future activism and involvement in Nigeria’s political landscape.

On attaining his law degree, Farotimi was called to the Nigerian bar in 1999, beginning the launch of his legal career. At first, he worked with the law firm of Adesina Ogunlana & Co, where he quickly established a reputation as a strong advocate for human rights and social justice. Farotimi’s legal practice was more than just about defending clients in Court; instead, it became a platform for him to challenge Nigeria’s deeply flawed governance and justice systems. Over the years, he developed a personality known for his ability to speak truth to power, questioning the policies and actions of the Nigerian government and corporate elites. His career as a lawyer was not just about legal proceedings but about shaping Nigerian society’s moral and ethical direction.

In 2002, his law career took a new turn with the establishment of the Dele Farotimi & Co, a full-fledged Law Firm, which later came to be known as DF Legal, marking a dedicated active legal service that lasted till 2018, at age 50. As Farotimi’s legal career evolved, so too did his role as a political activist. His commitment to activism became even more evident when he joined the Citizens’ Rally Against Oppression (RAMINBA), an organization founded in 2018 in Lagos, dedicated to confronting corruption and advocating for systemic reforms across the various parastatals in Nigeria. His membership with this organization earned him more space in the headlines as he appeared alongside others through petitions and protests organized to call out the excesses amidst failing systems.

Although he is not a politician, Farotimi’s political participation gained further momentum in the days that preceded the 2023 general elections in Nigeria. As one determined to continue the call for change and reforms, he served as the official spokesperson for the Labour Party. His role in the election period was not just about political campaigning; it was the needed platform for him to speak directly to the people of Nigeria who yearned for change about the urgent need for good governance, transparency, and accountability. This alone positioned him as a formidable voice within the Nigerian political arena, willing to challenge the corrupt and inefficient systems that have held back the nation for so long.

Farotimi’s thoughts and political standpoints extended into the realm of literature. He is the author of several thought-provoking books. He authored the book Do Not Die in Their War, where he conducted a bold and critical examination of Nigeria’s polity. In this book, Farotimi tackles issues such as corruption, the abuse of power, and the erosion of justice in Nigeria, amongst others. His writing criticized the status quo and provided an in-depth analysis of each systemic issue that has plagued the country for decades.

The book resonated deeply with many Nigerians and those who lived in Third World countries. It was a call to an honest review of the nation’s state and an urgent call for reform. The book painted a bleak picture of the silliness in running the dirty errands of politicking or putting one’s future at stake for the joys of political masters. He criticized the country’s justice system and offered hope by urging citizens to act and demand change. With this, Farotimi became more than just a lawyer or activist. He transformed into a voice for the voiceless, a champion of those who have suffered under Nigeria’s corrupt systems.

While Farotimi’s valor and dedication remain unquestionable, this fearless and unflinching critique of the Nigerian government made him a person of interest to law enforcement. In December 2024, he was arrested in Lagos and moved to Ekiti State by the Nigerian Police Force, who had received complaints on character defamation. He was arrested and charged due to some assertions from his book  Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, which had been alleged to contain numerous defamatory statements against Aare Afe Babalola SAN.

His arrest was surprising, and it sent shockwaves through Nigeria, as many demanded his release, sparking widespread protests and outcry from civil society groups, legal professionals, and like-minded activists who saw this as a direct attempt to silence free speech and suppress dissent. The social media came to live with hashtags like #FreeDeleFarotimiNow as netizens engaged in cyber debates on social media. This was in addition to various Nigerians from all walks of life demanding his release. Protests erupted across the country, calling for justice and the dismissal of charges against him. However, Afe initially believed that he should prove his allegations, and the people’s expectation is the same. The case has now been terminated. While it would have been up to the Court to decide the propriety of Farotimi’s statements, the epicenter of the whole fracas indicates his unwavering belief in the need for systemic change in Nigeria.

His writings, public speeches, and legal advocacy have consistently pointed to deep-seated flaws within the nation’s political and judicial systems. He has long advocated for a complete overhaul of Nigeria’s governance, calling for greater transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the rule of law. His work continues to provoke debate, sparking conversations about Nigeria’s future and its citizens’ role in shaping that future.

The views of this contemporary nationalist and activist will be heard in the Toyin Falola Interview Series to tap into the underlying philosophies of his activities and the convictions behind his resolutions. The Toyin Falola Interview Series has invited some reputable individuals to discuss their convictions on Africa as a continent and as a subject. Farotimi’s interview would be another enlightening chapter.

Blue Origin, the space exploration company backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, is laying off 10% of its workforce as part of a significant restructuring aimed at cutting costs and sharpening focus.

The decision, which affects over 1,000 employees, was announced during an all-hands meeting Thursday morning with CEO Dave Limp.

The workforce reduction, first reported by Bloomberg, follows years of rapid expansion and development within the company.

Blue Origin did not share detailed employment figures during Thursday’s announcement but has been reported to employ between 11,000 and 14,000 workers, with more than 4,000 based in Washington state.

In a memo to employees, Limp explained that the company’s growth had led to “more bureaucracy and less focus” than necessary, particularly after a hiring spree over the last few years.

Blue Origin is now taking steps to reduce its management ranks and streamline operations in an effort to clear about $10 billion in launch contracts. The company will also eliminate positions in engineering, research and development, and project management.

The layoffs come at a time when Blue Origin is still recovering from a series of delays and challenges in its quest to build a competitive space launch system. The company’s flagship New Glenn rocket, for example, was delayed multiple times before its long-awaited debut last month. Despite these setbacks, Blue Origin remains committed to a wide-ranging space portfolio, including space tourism, lunar exploration, and the development of a space station and rocket engines.

What we know 

Founded by Bezos in 2000, Blue Origin has grown rapidly in recent years, reaching a peak workforce of approximately 14,000 employees. Its headquarters are located in the Seattle area, with major manufacturing and launch sites in Florida, Texas, and Alabama.

• While the company has good plans, including a lunar lander and a major role in supporting future missions to the Moon, it has often been compared unfavorably to Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which has emerged as the most prolific rocket launcher in the world.
• In response to these challenges, Blue Origin hired Limp in 2023, a former Amazon executive, to help bring the company out of a prolonged R&D slump and refocus on its core mission. Limp, who previously led Amazon’s hardware division, is now tasked with guiding Blue Origin through a critical phase.

Looking ahead, Limp outlined the company’s goals for the future, including plans for an uncrewed lunar landing in 2025 and ramping up the launch cadence for its New Glenn and New Shepard rockets. Despite the workforce reduction, Blue Origin remains focused on its vision for the future of space exploration.

[Nairametrics]

Veteran Nollywood actor, Patrick Doyle, has knocked Nigerians who engage in public marriage proposals.

Naija News reports that the thespian, in a post via his Facebook page on Thursday, asserted that engaging in a public proposal with an entourage of cameras streaming live is imbecilic.

Patrick Doyle noted that the epidemic of narcissism and approval addiction consuming many people makes him wonder if some of them ever had any home training.

He wrote, “Asking a woman to marry you is perhaps the most intimate experience any 2 persons can be engaged in outside of actual copulation.

“This new unwholesome trend of having an entourage on hand with video cameras live streaming the act is, in my view, imbecilic.

“The epidemic of narcissism and approval addiction consuming many makes me wonder if some people ever had any home training at all.”

Meanwhile, Patrick Doyle has praised Afrobeats superstar, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, for his ability to remain composed in the face of criticism.

He asserted that Davido is the least arrogant among his peers, and likened the artist’s path to a philosophy by the late Obafemi Awolowo.

Speaking via a Facebook post on Sunday, Doyle explained that Awolowo had shared how, throughout his life, adversities and criticisms often aimed at discrediting him would eventually transform into blessings.

[NaijaNews]

With possible political realignments and potential coalitions ahead of the 2027 elections, the leading regional bodies of the North and the South West have restated their positions on the issue of rotational presidency and power shift.

The northern apex socio-cultural organisation, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), has faulted the notion that the region was the ultimate kingmaker which could give victory to any presidential candidate of its choosing.

ACF further traced former President Goodluck Jonathan’s defeat in the 2015 presidential poll to his policies, rather than a gang-up by the North as widely speculated in certain quarters

On its part, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has disclosed that there was an understanding for rotation of presidency between the North and the South.

It, however, noted that the spate of defections from the opposition does not indicate that the incumbent, President Bola Tinubu, will lose the presidency in 2027.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, had on Tuesday reignited the perennial debate about power shift and rotational presidency when he told the North to forget about contesting the 2027 presidential election.

Ganduje, while receiving a delegation of President Bola Tinubu Media Centre and Tinubu Northern Youth Forum at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, said: “Our president has come from the South and is going, Insha Allah, for a second term come 2027. And after that, it will be the turn of the northern part of this country.”

Interestingly, a former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai had shared a write-up by an APC member, who warned that President Tinubu may be given the ‘Goodluck Jonathan treatment’ ahead of the next presidential election.

The former Kaduna State governor, who has been one of the leading figures in the gathering of politicians opposed to the Tinubu administration, was a key advocate for power shift to the South in the 2023 election which saw President Bola Tinubu, from the South West emerge president. Tinubu took over from Muhammadu Buhari, a Northerner who was in office for eight years.

Ganduje’s call to the North was preceded by a similar declaration, last year, by secretary to the government of the federation, Senator George Akume, who said the North should wait till 2031 to contest for the top seat which it vacated in 2023.

Akume was opposed by former vice president Atiku Abubakar, who stated that President Tinubu’s performance showed he did not deserve another term, saying, “God forbid.”

The power rotation agreement between the North and the South is one of the most contentious political debates, and it played a key role in the defeat of the former ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
But speaking exclusively with LEADERSHIP Friday in Kaduna, ACF spokesman, Prof. T.A Muhammad Baba, said El-Rufai and Ganduje were expressing their personal opinions as politicians.

He, however, disproved the notion that the North would decide the outcome of the presidential election, describing it as an exaggerated position.

He nonetheless noted that the North had learnt its lessons with the last three presidential elections.
ACF said, ”Former Governors Nasir El-Rufai and Abdullahi Ganduje, as politicians, were expressing their opinions. Let them continue talking, but when the time comes, the voters will make decisions based on the government’s policies.

“To me, it is not enough to say the North caused former President Jonathan’s defeat; his policies caused his defeat and not the North.

“I think to keep saying the North will decide presidential elections is an exaggerated position because the North alone cannot decide or give any presidential candidate victory. For you to win presidential elections, you must have 3As, which are: available, agreeable and accessible.”

According to him, in the 2027 election, “when the time comes, Nigerians will decide, not only the north. The North has learnt its lesson in 2015, 2019, 2023.”

There Is Understanding For Rotation Of Presidency Between North, South – Afenifere

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organisation Afenifere has restated that there was an understanding for rotating the presidency between the North and the South.

When contacted, Afenifere spokesman, Comrade Jare Ajayi, stated that El Rufai and Ganduje, as politicians of stature, were expressing divergent views that align with their present political divide.
He said “Although the two of them are known as members of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), it is common knowledge that former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El Rufai, has, of late, been talking more as a member of the opposition party.

“His view that the North may not vote for President Bola Tinubu in 2027 if he (Tinubu) decides to run for a second term should be viewed from that lens – that of a person who is talking from an opposition perspective.

“Alhaji Ganduje, on the other hand, is not just a member of the ruling party; he is the national chairman. On the issue at hand, the APC chairman appears to be on point.”

The Afenifere chieftain, however, asserted that “there seems to be a gentleman’s understanding between politicians in the North and those in the South for the Presidency to rotate between the two zones. It is expected that a southerner occupying the position presently in the person of Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu will spend two terms like former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Mohammadu Buhari.”

As for El-Rufai’s claim that Tinubu’s influence is waning in the North, Ajayi said it is the election that will really determine that.

“But if we go by the rate at which politicians in the opposition parties are defecting into the APC, it may be a bit difficult to agree with the former Kaduna State governor on this score.

“Also, the situation that prevented former President Goodluck Jonathan from getting a second term in 2015 may not necessarily be the same in 2027,” the Afenifere spokesman said.

[Leadership]

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, has renewed calls for deeper backward integration in the telecommunications sector, emphasising the need to localise key supply chains while expanding financial services to benefit ordinary Nigerians.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, during a courtesy visit to CBN headquarters by Airtel Africa’s management team, led by Group Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sunil Taldar, Cardoso stressed the need to reduce the sector’s reliance on foreign exchange.

He noted that the CBN has spent the past 16 months stabilising the foreign exchange market, strengthening the Naira’s competitiveness, and boosting investor confidence in the Nigerian economy.

With these gains, he said, telecom firms must now embrace backward integration by producing essential components such as SIM cards, cables, and towers locally. This shift, he argued, would not only ease dollar demand but also create jobs and strengthen the economy.

Beyond industry reforms, Cardoso highlighted the CBN’s broader vision of deepening financial inclusion and enhancing digital payment solutions for everyday Nigerians. He announced plans for a high-level summit where the Apex Bank will collaborate with key industry stakeholders to develop strategies that promote accessible, efficient, and innovative financial services.

“The CBN is committed to ensuring that financial services reach more Nigerians, especially in rural and underserved communities. Through collaboration with relevant agencies and industry players, we aim to build a more inclusive and digitally-driven financial ecosystem,” Cardoso said.

In response, Airtel Africa’s Group CEO, Mr. Sunil Taldar, commended the CBN’s reforms and voiced support for backward integration, emphasising that reducing reliance on the dollar was in the mid to long-term interest of telecom operators. He was accompanied by CEO, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Dinesh Balsingh; Group CFO, Mr. Jaideep Paul; and Director of Corporate Communications & CSR, Mr. Femi Adeniran.

[DailyTrust]

In the ever-evolving world of Nollywood, few names shine as brightly as Funke Akindele’s own. From dominating the television screen to breaking box office records with her films, Akindele has become one of the most influential figures in the Nigerian film industry as a whole. Through her infectious blend of comedy, drama, and cultural authenticity, she has not only captivated audiences but has also reshaped the industry and approach to marketing cinema films.

The Rise of Funke Akindele

Akindele’s journey began in the early 2000s with the hit TV series Jenifa’s Diary, a spin-off from her 2008 film Jenifa, where she played the role of the quirky but lovable Jenifa, a woman navigating the challenges of life in Nigeria. The show’s unique humor and relatable characters made Akindele a household name. Over the years, Jenifa’s Diary has become one of Nigeria’s longest-running and most popular sitcoms, earning her the title of “the queen of Nigerian comedy.”

However, Akindele’s reach extends far beyond television. She quickly became a dominant force in Nollywood, known for her astute filmmaking skills and entrepreneurial mindset. Her early foray into film production and direction, such as with the political comedy ‘Your Excellency’ in 2019, proved that she was not only a talented actress but also a strategic businesswoman, capable of producing high-grossing films.

Breaking Box Office Records

Akindele’s first notable success to date came with her 202o film ‘Omo Ghetto: The Saga’ co-directed and produced by Akindele. The film became a record-breaker, grossing over 600 million Naira and cementing her status as a box office powerhouse. It was an instant hit, beloved for its sharp social commentary, dynamic characters, and blend of drama and comedy. ‘Omo Ghetto: The Saga’ went on to become one of the highest-grossing Nollywood films in history.

However, Akindele’s box office success didn’t stop there. Her latest works, ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ broke the previous record while ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’ broke the previous film’s record, solidifying her reputation as a creative force in the industry.

A Tribe Called Judah: Redefining Nollywood

Released in December 2023, ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ is a gripping film that blends adventure, drama, and cultural exploration. In this movie, Akindele takes on a more serious, intense role, which is a departure from her usual comedic style. The film, which explores the intricate dynamics of a powerful African dynasty, has drawn rave reviews for its rich storytelling and stunning visuals.

‘A Tribe Called Judah’ was not just a commercial hit but also critically acclaimed, praised for its originality and depth. It grossed over 400 million Naira within its first weeks of release, surpassing several major Nollywood films in that period and went on to gross a total of N1.45 billion. Its success has been attributed to Akindele’s ability to tap into the global demand for African-centered narratives that go beyond stereotypical portrayals, offering audiences something fresh and thought-provoking.

Everybody Loves Jenifa: The legacy continues

In 2024, Akindele delighted her fans with the much-anticipated third franchise in the Jenifa’s series, ‘Everybody Loves JENIFA.’ Fans have long awaited the return of their favorite character, and Akindele didn’t disappoint. The film builds on the success of the original franchise, mixing laughter with life lessons. Jenifa’s quirky character is as relatable as ever, dealing with personal challenges and social issues in her distinct, humorous way.

The film was a massive hit, quickly grossing over a billion Naira at the box office and solidifying Funke Akindele’s role as Nollywood’s most bankable star. Critics and audiences alike have lauded the film for staying true to the essence of the beloved sitcom while introducing new layers to the story. Return of Jenifa shows that even after over a decade, Jenifa’s charm and relevance continue to strike a chord with Nigerian and international audiences alike.

Paving way for new faces

What sets Akindele apart from many of her peers is her unwavering commitment to mentoring and empowering emerging filmmakers. Through her production company, The Funke Akindele Network, she has actively nurtured new talent, offering opportunities to up-and-coming directors, writers, and actors. This passion for helping others break into the industry is a key part of Akindele’s legacy, ensuring that Nollywood’s future is diverse, inclusive, and continually evolving.

Her films, ‘Battle on Buka Street,’ ‘Omo Ghetto: The Saga’ and ‘A Tribe Called Judah,’ have been acquired by major global streaming platforms like Netflix, increasing Nollywood’s global footprint. This newfound international attention underscores the potential of African stories to capture the world’s imagination, with Akindele at the forefront of this cinematic revolution.

As Akindele continues to dominate the box office and build her legacy, it is clear that she will remain a central figure in Nollywood for years to come. She has not only broken box office records—she’s helped set new benchmarks for the industry, proving that with hard work, vision, and innovation, anything is possible in the world of Nollywood.

Funke Akindele’s journey is far from over, and as she continues to blaze a trail, one thing is certain: she will remain an unstoppable force in Nigerian cinema.

Rose Idibia, the mother of veteran singer Innocent, popularly known as 2face, has raised the alarm that Nigerians should help her beg Edo State lawmaker, Natasha Osawuru, to leave her son.

She made the appeal in a video that went viral on Thursday evening.

According to Mrs Idibia, 2face is presently not in his right frame of mind due to the divorce proceedings with his estranged wife, Annie.

“Good evening, Nigerians. My name is Mrs Rose Idibia, the mother of 2face. This message is for Miss Natasha Osawaru of Edo State. I’m calling on all mothers in Nigeria to help me beg her to free my son.

“My son is going through a divorce process, and he is clearly not in his right senses now. I know my son well. That is not him.

“Please Natasha, the beads you put on his hand and on his neck, remove them and free him,” she said.

The PUNCH reports a viral video on Thursday that captured the moment 2face proposed to Osawaru.

In the video, the singer and the lawmaker were seen dancing together to the admiration of some of their friends.

2face later proceeded to present Osawaru with a ring, after which they were locked in a long embrace.

This comes just a day after the musician publicly confirmed his romantic relationship with Osawaru, setting social media abuzz.

The revelation follows his recent separation from his wife, Annie Idibia, with the singer expressing his intention to take things further with Osawaru.

Speculations about their relationship had been growing after 2face was seen at the Edo State Assembly and a video surfaced showing the two together at a Lagos club.

Addressing the rumours, the African Queen crooner took to Instagram on Tuesday to set the record straight.

In the video, he said in part, “Allegedly, I have seen so many things, so many people coming up with their own false narratives and malicious nonsense after I posted that stuff that I posted. Yes, I posted what I posted.

“Hon. Natasha has been dragged, she has been called all sorts of names, she has been labelled as a home breaker.

“She is a young, brilliant, amazing woman, and she had nothing to do with what is happening between me and Annie in our marriage. Yes I love her, she is amazing, she is cool, I want to marry her.”

[Punch]

Nigerian media personality Chinedu Ani Emmanuel, popularly known as Nedu Wazobia, has announced his departure from The Honest Bunch podcast.

His exit follows controversy surrounding a recent episode featuring comedian and reality TV star Deeone, who alleged that social media critic VeryDarkMan (VDM) was attracted to men.

In response, VDM accused Nedu of persistently requesting his appearance on the podcast since 2024 and allegedly offering to buy him a car as an incentive. He further claimed that Nedu had reached out multiple times, suggesting this was the reason behind the allegations made against him by Deeone.

VDM also warned Nedu against further communication through his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, threatening to expose alleged dealings involving female celebrities if the matter persisted.

In a statement released on Instagram on Friday, Nedu said his decision to step down was influenced by growing scrutiny and accusations, which he described as baseless.

“The past week has brought a lot into perspective for me. Hosting The Honest Bunch Podcast has been an incredible journey—one built on open conversations, bold perspectives, and the willingness to tackle difficult topics. But with that responsibility has come an overwhelming level of scrutiny, antagonism, and unfounded accusations that have now begun to take a personal toll,” he stated.

Nedu added that his exit was necessary for his well-being, family, and the integrity of the podcast, expressing hope that the decision would bring an end to the controversy.

“In light of recent events, I have made the difficult decision to step away from the podcast. This is not a decision I take lightly, but one I believe is necessary—for my peace of mind, for my family, and for the integrity of the show itself. I have always been committed to honest conversations, but when those conversations lead to relentless attacks and misrepresentation, it becomes clear that stepping back is the best path forward.”

“I sincerely hope this decision brings an end to the negativity surrounding my name and allows The Honest Bunch Podcast to continue thriving. I remain committed to fostering dialogue in ways that encourage meaningful engagement and growth, and I look forward to new opportunities that align with that vision.”

“I wish the show continued success and thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey,” the statement concluded.

[Vanguard]