Burkina Faso has suspended the Target Malaria project, halting the release of genetically modified mosquitoes. Here’s why the decision was made, how the technology works, and what it means for Africa’s malaria fight.
Burkina Faso Suspends GM Mosquito Project
Burkina Faso has suspended all activities of the Target Malaria project, a Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation–backed initiative that was testing genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes to curb malaria transmission.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation issued the suspension order on August 18, 2025, halting trials and sealing off facilities where GM mosquitoes were being bred. Remaining insects are set to be destroyed under biosafety protocols.
This move is seen as a major setback for biotechnology’s role in malaria control, especially as Africa continues to account for more than 95% of global malaria deaths each year.
What Is the GM Mosquito Project?
The GM mosquito project is a scientific effort to fight malaria by altering mosquito populations. There are two main strategies:
Sterile or self-limiting males (non–gene drive): Male mosquitoes are engineered with a genetic trait that prevents female offspring from surviving. Over time, this reduces the mosquito population.
Gene drive mosquitoes (still in development): Using CRISPR gene editing, scientists insert traits that spread quickly through wild populations. These traits could make mosquitoes resistant to malaria parasites or cause female infertility, breaking the cycle of transmission.
African Countries Testing GM Mosquitoes
While Burkina Faso was a pioneer, it is not the only African country exploring genetically engineered mosquitoes:
Burkina Faso: First release in 2019 of sterile Anopheles gambiae males under Target Malaria.
Djibouti (2024–2025): Pilot release of Oxitec’s “Friendly™” Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes to combat urban malaria outbreaks.
Ghana and Uganda: Ongoing lab research under Target Malaria, but no field releases yet.
Tanzania: Transmission Zero project preparing future gene drive trials.
Why Did Burkina Faso Suspend the Project?
Despite initial regulatory approvals, Burkina Faso pulled the brakes for several reasons:
Public Opposition: Civil society groups argued there was a lack of transparency and genuine community consent.
Scientific Concerns: Independent studies raised issues about genetic stability, hybridization with wild species, and potential unintended ecological impacts.
Ethical Questions: Critics said the project offered no immediate health benefits to communities and risked using them as experimental grounds.
The suspension underscores the need for caution, independent review, and stronger community engagement before advancing such high-risk biotechnology in Africa.
What This Means for Malaria Control in Africa
Burkina Faso’s decision puts Africa at a crossroads. While countries like Djibouti continue to test GM mosquitoes, the suspension raises questions about safety, ethics, and public trust.
As malaria remains one of Africa’s deadliest diseases, the challenge is finding the right balance between innovation and precaution. Whether genetically modified mosquitoes become part of the continent’s malaria toolkit will depend on how governments, scientists, and communities navigate these concerns in the years ahead.
Two former boxers from Warwickshire, Harry and Joe Freeman, have launched a grassroots campaign aimed at tackling childhood obesity and improving children’s mental health across the United Kingdom.
The initiative, called Boxwave, offers free fitness and mentorship programmes in parks, playgrounds, and community spaces, targeting young people struggling with weight, low self-esteem, and social isolation.
According to the brothers, the project was created to provide an accessible and supportive alternative to gym memberships or paid classes. “We wanted to make sure every child, no matter their background, has the chance to feel stronger, healthier and more confident,” Harry Freeman said.
Boxwave’s sessions combine fitness activities such as hill sprints, tyre-pulling, football drills and boxing pad work with motivational mentorship. The approach has already attracted a strong following online, with the brothers building an audience of more than 700,000 on TikTok and Instagram, where they share training videos and success stories.
Since its launch last year, the initiative has reported several success stories. Among them is 10-year-old Jacob, who lost more than three stone through the programme and has since appeared on ITV’s This Morning to speak about his journey. Other children involved have shifted from sedentary lifestyles to active participation in sports and regained confidence after years of bullying.
This autumn, the Freemans plan to expand Boxwave into more than 50 schools through a new campaign titled “The Strongest Generation.” The expansion will be supported by sponsorships and retail partnerships, enabling the programme to host monthly community events across the country.
Although the NHS and local councils have shown interest in collaborating, the brothers say they are determined to keep the service free. “For us, this is about helping children, not creating barriers with costs. That’s why everything we do remains open to anyone who wants to join,” Joe Freeman explained.
The launch of Boxwave comes at a time when childhood obesity in Britain has reached record levels. Recent studies warn that obesity rates, which spiked during the pandemic, could cost the UK billions of pounds in healthcare and economic impact in the coming years.
Health experts say grassroots efforts like Boxwave complement national strategies, such as the government’s £85 million Public Health Innovation Programme and NHS smart-scale clinics for young people.
With its community-first approach and early success stories, Boxwave is positioning itself as one of the most promising grassroots movements in the fight against childhood obesity in the UK.
When Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl hit cinemas in 2003, few expected it to spark a billion-dollar phenomenon. What started as a risky gamble; a film based on a Disneyland theme park ride quickly transformed into one of Disney’s most lucrative and enduring live-action franchises. Johnny Depp’s flamboyant and unpredictable performance as Captain Jack Sparrow not only earned him an Academy Award nomination but also redefined how audiences imagined pirates on screen. The success of that first adventure set the stage for a sprawling saga that would stretch across five films, exploring supernatural curses, legendary figures, and high-seas betrayals. Now, with Disney charting a bold new direction, the franchise once again stands at the brink of reinvention.
The Expanding Seas of the Sequels
The triumph of The Curse of the Black Pearl made sequels inevitable, and Disney wasted no time turning the swashbuckling hit into a trilogy. In 2006, Dead Man’s Chest arrived and expanded the lore with the terrifying figure of Davy Jones, master of the Flying Dutchman, whose tentacled face and heart locked away in a chest became iconic symbols of the series. The film not only deepened the mythology but also delivered grand spectacle, from the Kraken’s attacks to Sparrow’s frantic bargaining with fate. Audiences responded enthusiastically, propelling the film past the billion-dollar mark at the global box office, a milestone that cemented the franchise as more than just a novelty.
The following year, At World’s End attempted an even more ambitious narrative, weaving together multiple storylines of betrayal, sacrifice, and shifting alliances. With the introduction of the nine pirate lords and a climactic battle in a maelstrom, the film carried both the grandeur and the complexity of an operatic finale. Though critics were divided over its dense storytelling, fans were treated to one of the most visually spectacular finales of the 2000s, with Jack Sparrow, Will Turner, and Elizabeth Swann caught in the storm of destiny. For many, this marked the natural endpoint of the original saga, closing the arcs of its central characters while leaving the door slightly ajar for Sparrow’s continuing misadventures.
But Disney was not ready to dock the Black Pearl just yet. In 2011, the franchise returned with On Stranger Tides. With Gore Verbinski stepping away from directing and Rob Marshall at the helm, the film shifted toward a standalone adventure, introducing the infamous Blackbeard, played by Ian McShane, and a quest for the Fountain of Youth. Penélope Cruz brought fiery energy as Angelica, a woman from Sparrow’s past whose motives were as murky as the seas they sailed. Though critics found the story thinner and less charming than the original trilogy, the film once again proved the enduring appeal of the brand, grossing over a billion dollars worldwide.
The most recent entry, Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017), brought back a sense of legacy. Javier Bardem delivered a haunting performance as Captain Salazar, a vengeful ghost hunting Sparrow, while the film tied itself to earlier mythology by revisiting the cursed fate of Will Turner aboard the Flying Dutchman. It also introduced a new generation of adventurers in Henry Turner and Carina Smyth, setting up the possibility of passing the torch. Despite mixed reviews, the film rekindled nostalgia by reuniting audiences with Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley, albeit briefly, reminding fans of the franchise’s emotional core.
Through these sequels, Pirates of the Caribbean became a rare blend of gothic fantasy, slapstick comedy, and mythmaking. It crafted a world where cursed treasure and ghost ships were as real as shifting allegiances and romantic entanglements, a formula that audiences around the globe could not resist.
New Horizons: Reboots and Spin-Offs
Now, nearly two decades after the first film, Disney is preparing to chart a new course for the franchise. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has confirmed that the next entry will not be a continuation of Jack Sparrow’s adventures but a complete reboot. This means fresh characters, a brand-new storyline, and a creative attempt to reimagine the franchise for a new generation of audiences. Screenwriter Jeff Nathanson, who previously penned Dead Men Tell No Tales, is tasked with bringing this vision to life. Reports suggest that the script has been undergoing refinements, especially in its third act, as Disney aims to launch a saga that feels distinct yet still carries the adventurous spirit fans expect.
At the same time, Disney has been developing a separate spin-off project, one that could shift the franchise in a bold direction. Academy Award nominee Margot Robbie has been linked to the film, with Christina Hodson, known for Birds of Prey, attached as the screenwriter. Robbie herself revealed in 2022 that the project seemed to have been scrapped, but Bruckheimer has since stated that Disney remains committed to the idea. If realized, this spin-off would likely focus on a female-led pirate crew, opening up new narratives within the vast Caribbean seas and breaking away from the male-dominated stories of the past.
Still, one question looms larger than all others: will Johnny Depp ever return as Captain Jack Sparrow? His portrayal of the rum-loving trickster is inseparable from the franchise’s identity. While Depp’s tumultuous legal battles and estrangement from Disney once made a return unlikely, recent comments from Bruckheimer suggest that if the right script comes along and Depp agrees, a comeback could happen. Orlando Bloom, who played Will Turner, has also voiced that a successful revival would require bringing back “everybody,” emphasizing that the original crew remains the heart of the franchise. Whether Disney will balance this nostalgia with its plans for a reboot remains uncertain.
The Legacy of the Black Pearl
As Pirates of the Caribbean prepares for its next voyage, it faces the challenge of honoring its legacy while steering into new waters. For many fans, the franchise is not just about ghost ships or cursed coins, it is about the unhinged charm of Jack Sparrow, the sweeping romance of Will and Elizabeth, and the eerie grandeur of seafaring legends come to life. Any attempt to reboot the series must grapple with this weight of expectation, delivering something fresh without losing what made the films beloved in the first place.
Yet, Disney’s confidence in rebooting and expanding the franchise signals that the seas are far from quiet. The world of Pirates of the Caribbean is one rich with untold stories: hidden islands, legendary figures, and the eternal clash between freedom and order. Whether through a new generation of characters or a long-awaited reunion of the original cast, one thing remains certain, the horizon still holds treasure, and the adventures are far from over.
Have you ever met someone who tasted suya and walked away without buying? I haven’t. But I have met someone who walked away because the Mai Suya refused to give him a taste. That tiny piece of meat, handed over with a smile, carries more weight than most people realize. It’s not just about the flavour, it’s a subtle play of psychology, culture, and salesmanship.
1. The Law of Reciprocity
In psychology, people naturally feel obliged to return a favor. When the Mai Suya offers you that small piece for free, you subconsciously feel the need to “give back” by making a purchase. Even if you didn’t intend to buy suya at first, that little act can tip you into buying more than you intended.
2. Anchoring and Commitment
That first bite sets the standard. If it tastes delicious, your mind quickly locks in the thought: “I should get more of this.” The simple act of tasting makes you part of the transaction already, and psychologically, it becomes harder to walk away empty-handed.
3. Building Trust
Buying food from the roadside often comes with questions about hygiene or quality. By offering a taste upfront, the seller is essentially saying, “See? I have nothing to hide.” That small gesture builds immediate trust and reassures you about what you’re paying for.
4. Appetite Stimulation
Suya’s unique blend of pepper, spice, and smoky aroma is designed to awaken the senses. A small taste teases your appetite without satisfying it, triggering cravings that push you to order more. It’s the same logic behind supermarkets offering free food samples.
5. Cultural Warmth
Beyond business, suya tasting is also part of Nigeria’s communal food culture. That small bite makes the exchange feel less transactional and more like friendship. It’s a subtle way of saying, “You’re welcome here.” This emotional warmth builds loyalty, which is why many people keep returning to their favourite suya spots.
That tiny piece of suya isn’t just about taste, it’s a clever mix of psychology, culture, and salesmanship. Without knowing it, the Mai Suya is using the same principles that big marketers and global brands rely on to win customers.
So next time you get that first bite, enjoy it—but also smile knowing you’ve just been nudged by some street orientation.
Living a long, healthy life is a universal desire, but in Nigeria, the pressures of modern living, stress, processed foods, and urbanization often make it challenging. Interestingly, many of our elders in rural communities have naturally practiced habits similar to those found in the world’s “Blue Zones”—regions known for extraordinary longevity.
If you’ve ever traveled through villages—especially when entering Edo State, you’ve probably noticed obituary posters of elders who lived into their 90s or even past 100. It always makes me wonder: what did they do differently, and why do they seem to enjoy longer lifespans compared to urban dwellers? This reflection connects closely with the idea of Blue Zones; regions of the world where people consistently live longer, healthier lives due to their lifestyle and habits.
So, how can we adopt a Longevity Lifestyle that fits into our culture and everyday reality? Here are seven powerful habits to help you live longer and healthier.
Eat More Natural, Plant-Based Nigerian Foods
Traditional Nigerian diets are rich in beans, yam, plantain, vegetables, millet, and sorghum. These unprocessed foods provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals that promote long-term health.
Swap fast food for local options like beans porridge, moi-moi, okra soup, or millet pap. Treat meat as a side dish, not the main meal.
Stay Active Through Everyday Movement
You don’t need a gym to stay fit. Farming, walking, pounding yam, and market hustle kept past generations strong. Today, urban living makes many people sedentary.
Walk instead of taking keke/okada for short trips, climb stairs instead of using lifts, or do home-friendly exercises like skipping and squats.
Read more
Why More Young Nigerians Are Facing High Blood Pressure
Our elders often stayed active because they had responsibilities—farming, caring for grandchildren, or leading in the community. Purpose adds meaning and energy to life.
Even in retirement, stay engaged, mentor youths, volunteer in church/mosque, or start a small side project or farm.
Reduce Stress
From traffic jams to financial stress, life here can be overwhelming. But Nigerian traditions already provide stress relief—storytelling, prayer, communal gatherings, music, and dance.
Dedicate 10–15 minutes daily for prayer, meditation, or reflection. Socialize with friends and family to laugh and release tension.
Strengthen Family and Social Connections
Loneliness shortens life, but Nigeria’s communal culture helps. In villages, people share meals and support one another—reducing stress and depression. Call loved ones weekly, attend family gatherings, or host a simple get-together. A strong support system is key to living longer.
Many Nigerians overindulge at parties or with alcohol. In Blue Zone regions, moderation is a secret to long life.
Follow the “80% rule”—stop eating before you feel completely full. Limit alcohol, and try local, healthier drinks like zobo, kunu, or small portions of palm wine.
Hold on to Faith and Spirituality
Spirituality brings hope, reduces stress, and builds resilience. In Nigeria, faith, whether Christian, Muslim, or traditional is central to wellbeing.
Stay connected to your faith community, but also use spirituality for gratitude, peace of mind, and a positive outlook.
Building a Nigerian Longevity Lifestyle
Living longer in isn’t about expensive diets or luxury gyms. It’s about returning to the healthy, simple habits that our grandparents lived by. By eating clean, moving daily, managing stress, and nurturing relationships, we can create a Longevity Lifestyle that fits our culture and ensures a healthier future.
Longevity in Nigeria starts with small, intentional choices today.
Nollywood has built a reputation for weaving tales of love, betrayal, and survival, and Devil Is a Liar, which premiered on Netflix on August 15, 2025, is no exception. Directed by Moses Inwang and written by Tunde Babalola, this suspense-filled drama brings together some of the industry’s finest actors, including Nse Ikpe-Etim, James Gardiner, Nancy Isime, Erica Nlewedim, Mercy Aigbe, and Tina Mba.
A Familiar Yet Gripping Plot
Set in Lagos, the film tells the story of Adaora, a wealthy, accomplished woman whose only missing piece is love. When she meets Jaiye, a charming younger stylist, sparks fly. Despite the age difference and raised eyebrows, she marries him, investing heavily in his fashion dreams and building a family she desperately yearns for.
But what starts as a fairytale quickly turns sinister. Jaiye’s insecurities and hidden agenda lead him to manipulate Adaora, pressure her into terminating pregnancies, and exploit her financially. When tragedy strikes with the loss of their daughter and Adaora faces imprisonment, Jaiye fakes his own death, leaving a trail of betrayal. The film climaxes with Adaora’s confrontation of her once-beloved husband, living up to the haunting title: Devil Is a Liar.
The Strength of Performances
The standout performance is undoubtedly from Nse Ikpe-Etim, who embodies Adaora with depth, vulnerability, and quiet strength. Her portrayal anchors the film, making the character’s heartbreak and resilience resonate with viewers. The supporting cast, from Nancy Isime’s vibrant presence to Tina Mba’s matriarchal gravitas, enriches the narrative.
Unfortunately, the movie struggles where it matters most, which is the heart of the love story. The chemistry between Nse Ikpe-Etim and James Gardiner (Jaiye) is unconvincing, and Gardiner’s character feels underdeveloped. The script leans too much on melodramatic shortcuts and implausible twists, leaving the story both predictable and unrealistic.
Devil Is a Liar had the potential to be a memorable drama but instead falls into the trap of overused Nollywood formulas. Nse Ikpe-Etim’s stellar performance is the saving grace, yet it isn’t enough to rescue the film from its weak writing and unconvincing central relationship.
My Rating: 5/10
Watchable, but average. A film that proves talent can shine, but poor storytelling will always hold a project back.
Billboard has officially released its list of the 50 greatest Afrobeats songs of all time, highlighting some of the most iconic and groundbreaking tracks that have shaped the genre. Afrobeats, which has its roots in Nigeria and Ghana, has now become a global sound influencing artists worldwide. The list features a mix of legendary classics and recent international smashes that propelled the genre beyond Africa.
Spotlight on the Top 10 Afrobeats Songs of All Time
1. African Queen – 2Face Idibia (2004) This timeless love ballad remains one of the most iconic songs in African music. 2Face’s “African Queen” put Nigerian music on the global map and is celebrated as a masterpiece that helped pave the way for Afrobeats’ worldwide success.
2. Ojuelegba – Wizkid (2014) Wizkid’s “Ojuelegba” tells the story of struggle and triumph, capturing the spirit of Lagos. The remix featuring Drake and Skepta further expanded its global reach, solidifying Wizkid as one of the biggest Afrobeats stars.
3. Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix) – Flavour (2005) Flavour’s highlife-infused anthem became a cultural staple, known for its infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics. It cemented Flavour’s place as a household name in African music.
4. Calm Down – Rema (2022) Rema’s “Calm Down” took the world by storm, especially with the Selena Gomez remix. It became one of the most streamed Afrobeats songs globally, highlighting the new wave of Nigerian artists pushing Afrobeats into the mainstream.
5. Essence – Wizkid ft. Tems (2021) Dubbed the “song of the summer,” “Essence” is the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Tems’ soulful delivery and Wizkid’s smooth style created a masterpiece that captured hearts worldwide.
6. Love Nwantiti – CKay (2019)Initially a slow-burn hit, “Love Nwantiti” exploded through TikTok, becoming one of the most remixed and viral Afrobeats songs of all time. It solidified CKay’s place in the global music scene.
7. Oliver Twist – D’banj (2012) A song that marked Afrobeats’ breakthrough into the UK charts, D’banj’s “Oliver Twist” was a game-changer. It proved Afrobeats could thrive on the international stage.
8. Fall – Davido (2017) “Fall” became one of the longest-charting Nigerian pop songs on Billboard. Its fusion of Afrobeats and international pop influences helped Davido gain worldwide recognition.
9. Ye – Burna Boy (2018) “Ye” is widely regarded as Burna Boy’s breakthrough international hit. With its catchy hook and relatable themes, it became an anthem that transcended borders and genres.
10. Chop My Money (Remix) – P-Square ft. Akon (2012) This collaboration between Nigerian duo P-Square and Akon showcased Afrobeats’ crossover appeal. The track gained massive popularity and became a fan favorite across Africa and beyond.
Full Ranking: Positions 11–50 (with Release Dates)
11
Olufunmi
Styl-Plus
2003
12
Gongo Aso
9ice
2008
13
Do Me
P-Square
2007
14
Dami Duro
Davido
2011
15
Johnny
Yemi Alade
2013
16
Fall in Love
D’banj
2008
17
Bumper to Bumper
Wande Coal
2008
18
Adonai
Sarkodie ft. Castro
2014
19
Azonto
Fuse ODG ft. Itz Tiffany
2012
20
Fada Fada
Phyno ft. Olamide
2016
21
Eminado
Tiwa Savage & Don Jazzy
2013
22
Last Last
Burna Boy
2022
23
Bobo
Olamide
2015
24
Drogba (Joanna)
Afro B
2018
25
Pakurumo
Wizkid
2011
26
Skin Tight
Mr Eazi ft. Efya
2015
27
Iskaba
Wande Coal & DJ Tunez
2016
28
Peru
Fireboy DML
2021
29
Sad Girlz Luv Money
Amaarae & Moliy
2020
30
Killin Dem
Burna Boy & Zlatan
2018
31
Rush
Ayra Starr
2022
32
Dorobucci
Mavins
2014
33
Mad Over You
Runtown
2016
34
Personally
P-Square
2013
35
Pana
Tekno
2016
36
Kontrol
Maleek Berry
2016
37
Ku Lo Sa
Oxlade
2022
38
Monalisa
Lojay & Sarz
2021
39
Shake Body
Skales
2014
40
UNAVAILABLE
Davido ft. Musa Keys
2023
41
Peace Be Unto You
Asake
2022
42
People
Libianca
2022
43
Buga
Kizz Daniel & Tekno
2022
44
Oleku
Ice Prince ft. Brymo
2010
45
Yahooze
Olu Maintain
2007
46
Soweto
Victony & Tempoe
2022
47
Raise Da Roof
Jazzman Olofin & Adewale Ayuba
2004
48
Dem Mama
Timaya
2005
49
Tonight
Nonso Amadi
2016
50
Ijoya
Weird MC
Billboard’s list of the 50 Best Afrobeats Songs of All Time is more than a ranking—it’s a history of Afrobeats itself. From 2Face Idibia’s classic African Queen to Rema’s global smash Calm Down, it captures how a genre rooted in African rhythms has become a universal language.
The diversity of the list, spanning pioneers like Weird MC and contemporary stars like Ayra Starr and Asake, proves that Afrobeats is not only here to stay but also destined to keep evolving as one of the world’s dominant genres.
Personally I will make some few changes to this List. Will you? Drop a comment
Naira Marley, Nigerian music executive and head of Marlian Music, has spoken extensively about the death of his former signee, Mohbad (Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba), in a new video interview released on August 20, 2025. The Afrobeats star maintained his innocence while calling for a reinvestigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s passing, which remains one of the most controversial cases in Nigeria’s music industry.
Maintaining Innocence and Presenting Evidence
In the interview, Naira Marley insisted he had no hand in Mohbad’s death, which occurred on September 12, 2023. He presented evidence, including WhatsApp conversations, bank transactions, and other receipts, to show that he had a supportive relationship with Mohbad. Marley stated that he not only gave financial assistance to the late artist but also intervened to protect him on several occasions.
He addressed longstanding accusations of bullying, which have lingered since Mohbad’s exit from Marlian Music in 2022. While acknowledging tensions within the camp, Marley denied personally bullying Mohbad, adding that he often advised him against drug use and stressed the impact of mental health struggles on the young artist’s wellbeing.
Frustration Over Detention
The Marlian Music boss also recounted his two-month detention in 2023 by the Lagos State Police Command. He described the ordeal as unfair, pointing out that he was out of the country at the time of Mohbad’s death. According to Marley, his arrest was more about public outrage than solid evidence, and he expressed dismay that his passport was seized for months even after no case was established against him.
A Call for Re-arrest and Fresh Probe
In a move that has stirred further debate, Marley urged authorities to reopen the case and re-arrest everyone linked to Mohbad’s death, including himself, Sam Larry, and others previously accused. He specifically called for a trusted police officer to oversee the reinvestigation, citing mistrust in how the initial process was handled.
“I came back to Nigeria to support the police because I can see fingers pointing our ways. If they believe there is still doubt, then re-arrest us and let justice be done,” Marley said in the video.
Clarifying Financial Allegations
Marley also addressed rumors of financial exploitation. He explained that some of the funds he sent to Mohbad went into an account belonging to Mohbad’s mother-in-law at Mohbad’s own request, countering narratives that he diverted money for personal gain.
Additionally, he revealed that he has reached an agreement with Mohbad’s lawyer to transfer all royalties from the late artist’s works to a family member legally appointed by the court to manage his estate.
Public Reaction
The interview has sparked divided opinions online, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). Some users see Marley’s evidence as proof of his innocence and a demonstration of transparency. Others remain unconvinced, arguing that even if Marley was not directly responsible for Mohbad’s death, allegations of intimidation and a toxic label culture remain unresolved.
In February 2025, a Yaba Magistrate Court cleared Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and Prime Boy of direct responsibility in Mohbad’s death. The court instead charged an auxiliary nurse and an associate with reckless negligence. However, Mohbad’s father has since challenged the legal advice that discharged Marley and others, and a fresh hearing is still pending.
The autopsy conducted on Mohbad’s body provided inconclusive results due to decomposition, leaving the exact cause of death uncertain.
Two years after Mohbad’s death, the case continues to raise broader questions about accountability in the Nigerian music industry, particularly regarding artist welfare and record label dynamics. Marley’s latest remarks represent not just a personal defense but a renewed push for transparency in a case that has gripped public attention and continues to stir debate.
The long-standing rivalry between two of Yorubaland’s most powerful royal stools has resurfaced dramatically. On 19 August 2025, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ọjàjá II, demanding he revoke a chieftaincy title recently bestowed on Ibadan businessman, Dotun Sanusi.
At the heart of this dispute lies not just a title, but the deeper question of who holds authority over Yoruba-wide honours—a matter steeped in history, culture, and law.
The Trigger: Okanlomo of Yorubaland Title
Earlier in August, the Ooni conferred the title Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Dotun Sanusi, popularly known as Ilaji. The move was celebrated in Ibadan, where Sanusi has strong influence, but it angered the Alaafin.
The Alaafin argued that such a Yorubaland-wide title exceeds the Ooni’s authority, citing a Supreme Court ruling which, according to him, reserves the power to confer such titles for the Alaafin of Oyo alone. He described the Ooni’s action as an “unconstitutional encroachment” and demanded a reversal within 48 hours—or risk “dire consequences.”
Ooni’s Response: Silence, Dismissal, and Defiance
The Ooni, through his spokesperson Moses Olafare, refused to directly respond to the ultimatum. Instead, the palace dismissed the order as nothing more than an “empty threat” from what it called “a dead empire.”
“We shall not dignify the Alaafin’s ultimatum with any formal reply. The Ooni has more pressing developmental commitments than to entertain jokers,” Olafare said.
Rather than backtrack, the Ooni has continued to focus on projects like the planned Ojaja Smart City in Ibadan, signaling he will not bow to the Alaafin’s pressure.
Reactions Across Yorubaland
The feud has stirred widespread debate and divided opinions among Yoruba traditional and cultural leaders and online users.
Ibadan traditional rulers condemned the ultimatum as an affront on Ibadanland, arguing that the Alaafin had no business challenging the Ooni’s decision. Oba Omotooyosi Akinleye, Olukosi of Ilukosi-Ijesa, stressed that the Alaafin’s authority ends in Oyo land, while the Ooni holds broader spiritual supremacy as custodian of Oduduwa’s throne. The Yoruba Council Worldwide expressed dismay at the public spat, warning that the dispute undermines Yoruba unity and respect for tradition.
Historical Tension Between Thrones
The Ooni of Ife is traditionally regarded as the spiritual head of the Yoruba people, based in Ile-Ife, the ancestral cradle of creation in Yoruba cosmology. The Alaafin of Oyo, on the other hand, historically commanded political and military power during the Oyo Empire’s height.
While both thrones today serve largely ceremonial roles, their historical prestige often leads to contests of authority, especially over matters that touch on Yorubaland at large.
What Next?
The 48-hour ultimatum has already began without compliance from the Ooni. With both palaces standing firm, the standoff is now being closely watched—not just by Yoruba people, but across Nigeria.
At stake is more than one chieftaincy title; it is the delicate balance of authority between two of Yorubaland’s greatest stools. If left unchecked, the rift risks deepening long-standing rivalries that many believe should be channeled instead toward fostering cultural unity and development.
The feud highlights the enduring tensions between the Ooni of Ife’s spiritual pre-eminence and the Alaafin of Oyo’s historical claim to political authority. While both monarchs hold immense cultural influence, their public clash raises urgent questions about Yoruba unity in today’s Nigeria.
Gift-giving is a timeless way to strengthen relationships, celebrate milestones, and show appreciation. In Nigeria today, many people want to buy thoughtful presents without spending too much. While perfume is a common go-to option, it can sometimes feel repetitive and expensive. The good news is that there are several other budget-friendly yet meaningful gift ideas that Nigerians can consider when celebrating friends or peers.
Customized Mugs or Water Bottles
Personalized mugs or water bottles are simple yet practical gifts. Many local printing shops in Nigeria offer customization services at affordable prices, allowing you to add names, photos, or motivational quotes. These items are useful for everyday life, whether at home, school, or the office.
Books and Journals
Books make excellent gifts, especially when chosen according to the recipient’s interests, whether it’s fiction, motivational reads, or professional guides. Journals and notebooks are also thoughtful, as they encourage productivity, organization, and creativity. Pairing them with a pen adds an extra touch.
Fashion Accessories
Affordable accessories such as wristwatches, bracelets, earrings, belts, or wallets are always appreciated. Many Nigerian markets and online stores offer stylish pieces at reasonable prices. These items add a touch of personality and can be used daily.
With the increasing reliance on smartphones and gadgets, small tech accessories make highly practical gifts. Options include earphones, phone holders, power banks, USB drives, or even affordable Bluetooth speakers. These items are not only budget-friendly but also extremely useful.
Personalized Keepsakes
Personalized gifts have sentimental value. Examples include framed photographs, engraved keychains, or custom-made phone cases. Such items are affordable and often hold more meaning than generic presents. They show effort and thoughtfulness, which many Nigerians appreciate.
Self-Care Packs
Affordable self-care items such as skincare products, bath salts, or lip balms are great for encouraging relaxation. In Nigeria, locally-made skincare products are widely available and budget-friendly, making this option accessible.
Food remains one of the most loved and practical gifts. From a small hamper of snacks, chocolates, and biscuits to locally packaged delicacies, food items are affordable and guaranteed to be appreciated. Even homemade treats can serve as thoughtful, budget-conscious gifts.
In Nigeria, where cost-consciousness often guides purchasing decisions, giving a meaningful gift does not have to be expensive. By considering the recipient’s lifestyle, preferences, and needs, you can choose from a wide range of affordable options beyond perfume. Ultimately, it is the thought, effort, and personal touch behind the gift that makes it memorable.
