Category: Entertainment

Nigerian singer FOLA delivered a defining moment in his fast-rising career on Sunday night, selling out indigo at The O2 for his first-ever UK headline show.

The venue, which holds approximately 2,500–3,000 attendees, reached full capacity days before the event, underlining the growing international demand for the 21-year-old artist. Backed by a live band and supported by Genysis Events, the show marked a significant step in FOLA’s transition from emerging act to global contender.

FOLA’s ascent over the past year has been closely tied to the support of Bella Shmurda, who played a key role in amplifying his early reach. Since then, the singer has built momentum through a blend of melodic Afrobeats, introspective songwriting, and a growing catalogue of fan-favorite records.

From the moment doors opened, the crowd’s anticipation was evident. FOLA’s entrance was met with sustained chants, setting the tone for a performance built on high energy and audience connection.

Performances of tracks like “Get Better” and “Caricature” drew loud sing-alongs, with the live band adding depth and texture to his sound. The set maintained momentum throughout, driven by tight transitions and consistent crowd engagement.

The night’s biggest highlights came through a series of guest appearances:

Bella Shmurda: As the artist who first spotted FOLA’s talent, Bella’s appearance felt poetic. He joined FOLA on stage, delivering high-octane verses and hyping the crowd into a frenzy. 

Shoday followed with a mid-set appearance, performing “Paparazzi” and “Nakupenda,” shifting the atmosphere into a full crowd-driven party.
BNXN brought a more emotive tone with their collaboration “Alone,” creating a standout moment defined by synchronized vocals and audience participation.

At just 21, FOLA is proving he belongs among the next generation of Afrobeats global stars. With more UK and Ireland dates on the horizon (Birmingham on April 26, and more to follow).

Nollywood actress and producer Toyin Abraham has publicly responded to claims made by actress Abike Shugaa regarding her experience working on the 2023 film Ijakumo: The Born Again Stripper.

The issue surfaced after a video circulated online in which Shugaa detailed her involvement in the film. In the clip, she stated that she shot two scenes for Ijakumo and was paid ₦50,000, but later discovered that her scenes were removed from the final version of the film. She also said she was not informed about the removal before the film’s release.

In response, Abraham addressed the claims in posts shared on X (formerly Twitter), confirming aspects of the account. She stated that she paid ₦50,000 for two scenes in Ijakumo and added that the scenes were removed by the film’s director.

Abraham also referenced a separate project, stating that she paid Shugaa ₦500,000 for work related to the film Malaika.

In a follow-up post, Abraham said she had initially chosen not to speak on the matter, describing Shugaa as someone she regards “like a daughter.” She also mentioned providing support to Shugaa earlier in her career, including financial assistance.

Shugaa, in her earlier statements, compared her experience on Ijakumo with other projects, including work done with Funke Akindele, where she said she earned between $600 and $800 for PR and content-related roles.

The exchange has generated reactions across social media, with discussions focusing on compensation, communication, and post-production decisions in Nollywood.

Abike Shugaa is the stage name of Olawuni Oluwapelumi Abike, a Nigerian actress, TikTok content creator, and influencer who transitioned from social media fame into Nollywood roles.

She first gained attention on TikTok and Instagram through lifestyle content, skits, fashion posts, and short-form entertainment videos, where she built a young online following. She later moved into acting and gained recognition for appearing in Nollywood productions, including: Malaika (2023), produced by Toyin Abraham. 

The Television Academy has officially announced the recipients of the 19th Television Academy Honors, with Heated Rivalry headlining a list of curated six programs recognized for their cultural and social impact.

The annual Honors differ from traditional awards like the Primetime Emmy Awards by focusing specifically on television content that drives meaningful social change, sparks conversation, and reflects real-world issues through storytelling.

Full List of Honorees

The 2026 honorees include:

Heated Rivalry
Adolescence
Dying for Sex
South Park
We Are Ayenda
The Sixth

Among this year’s honorees, Heated Rivalry has drawn particular attention for its exploration of: LGBTQ+ identity in professional sports, The tension between public image and private life and Evolving definitions of masculinity in competitive spaces.

The 2026 list reflects a wide range of themes from personal identity and sexuality to global social justice and institutional power. Projects like We Are Ayenda and The Sixth expand the scope beyond Western narratives, while, the inclusion of South Park explores how animated series can also play a role in shaping public discourse through satire and commentary.

Founded in 1946 in Los Angeles, the Television Academy was created to advance the television industry and recognize excellence in the medium. It is best known for organizing the Primetime Emmy Awards, widely regarded as television’s highest honor.

However, the Television Academy Honors, introduced in 2008, were designed to spotlight a different kind of achievement. Unlike the Emmys, which reward artistic and technical excellence, the Honors recognize content that raises awareness around critical issues, encourages public dialogue and contributes to social progress.

Each year, a select group of honorees is chosen for their ability to influence culture and inspire change, regardless of genre or format.

Honorees will be formally recognized at a ceremony scheduled for May 20, 2026, at the Academy’s Saban Media Center in Los Angeles.

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Nigeria Rapper Ladipoe took to X (formerly Twitter) to call out fellow Mavin Records signee Johnny Drille over the length of time since his last album release, sparking a playful exchange that has since drawn over hundreds of reactions from fans on the platform. 

Ladipoe questioned the singer’s extended break from releasing a full-length project, a comment that has reignited conversations around both artists’ album timelines.

In response, Johnny Drille addressed the remark with humor, turning the conversation back toward Ladipoe. He challenged the rapper to a mutual agreement, suggesting that if he releases an album within the year, Ladipoe should also commit to dropping his own project.

Johnny Drille further referenced Ladipoe’s last studio album, Talk About Poe (T.A.P), released in 2018, while Ladipoe’s most recent project, Providence, arrived in 2021. The comparison underscored the extended gaps both artists have maintained between full-length releases despite remaining active through singles, features, and collaborations.

Ladipoe later responded on the platform, maintaining the light tone of the exchange while effectively accepting the challenge. He stated that if Johnny Drille proceeds with an album release this year, he would also follow suit with his own project.

The exchange has since been interpreted by fans as an informal “drop agreement” between the two artists, both of whom remain active through singles, features, and collaborations.

The interaction is widely viewed as friendly banter within the Mavin Records roster rather than any form of rivalry. However, it has intensified speculation around potential album releases from both artists in 2026.

While neither artist has confirmed official release dates, the exchange has renewed anticipation among fans eager for full-length projects after several years of project releases.

A high-profile entertainment and lifestyle event, The Royal Networking Event, is scheduled to take place on May 1, 2026, at Ciela Resort – Bonanza, bringing together a mix of international and African music stars.

According to promotional materials released by organizers, the event will be headlined by Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido, American rapper Rick Ross, Congolese music icon Koffi Olomide, and singer Cindy Le Cœur.

The event is being organized by Bplatinum Events Co. Ltd and is positioned as a premium gathering that combines live music performances with high-level networking opportunities. Gates are expected to open at 3:00 PM, with tickets available through both online and physical channels.

Davido’s appearance comes shortly after his debut performance at the globally recognized Coachella festival, where he delivered a set that further highlighted the growing international reach of Afrobeats. The performance marked another milestone in his global run and adds momentum to his upcoming appearance in Zambia.

Organizers say the event aims to attract a diverse audience, including business professionals, creatives, and entertainment enthusiasts, while offering a luxury experience beyond a traditional concert setting.

The inclusion of Davido highlights the continued global influence of Afrobeats, while Rick Ross’s appearance is set to promote the event’s international reach. Meanwhile, Koffi Olomide and Cindy Le Cœur bring a strong Central African presence, reflecting the event’s pan-African appeal.

While further details regarding additional performances or side activities have not yet been disclosed, the lineup alone has generated significant attention ahead of the event date.

Nigerian comedian and actor Okey Bakassi has announced a ₦5 million reward following the theft of eight mobile phones during a routine football match in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday evening, April 15, during a regular game attended by a group of professionals and business figures who gather weekly for informal matches.

According to Bakassi, a young man joined the game after approaching the group and was allowed to play. During the match, the suspect allegedly stepped away from the pitch under the guise of an injury or break.

He then moved to the sidelines where players had left their belongings and reportedly stole eight mobile phones before fleeing the scene.

In a video recorded shortly after the incident, Bakassi publicly appealed for help in tracking down the suspect. He offered a ₦5 million reward for credible information that leads to the recovery of the phones or the identification and arrest of the individual.

He emphasized that the reward would still apply even if only one of the stolen devices is recovered.

The case has been reported to law enforcement authorities, and investigations are currently ongoing.

Bakassi also issued a caution to individuals who purchase second-hand phones, urging them to request proper documentation and verify ownership to avoid unknowingly buying stolen devices.

Victoria Police have officially launched an investigation into a historical sexual assault allegation reportedly involving Australian actress Ruby Rose and American pop star Katy Perry, following claims connected to an alleged incident in Melbourne dating back to 2010.

The development marks the formal involvement of law enforcement after the allegation surfaced publicly on social media, sparking widespread attention across entertainment and news platforms.

The allegation first came to public attention when Ruby Rose reportedly made a series of social media posts accusing Katy Perry of sexual assault tied to an incident said to have occurred in Melbourne in 2010. Rose claimed the incident happened at a nightclub in the city when she was in her early twenties.

In her posts, she also suggested that the experience had remained with her for years before she eventually chose to speak publicly about it. The claims quickly gained traction online, prompting intense public debate and media scrutiny.

Katy Perry has strongly denied the allegations through her representatives, describing them as “categorically false” and rejecting the claims in full. Her team has maintained that the accusations are untrue, while Perry herself has not issued a detailed personal statement addressing the specifics of the allegation.

On Wednesday, Victoria Police confirmed that detectives are now examining a report of a “historical sexual assault that occurred in Melbourne in 2010.” Authorities stated that the matter is being handled by specialist investigators and is currently in the early stages.

Police have not released further details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

At this stage, no charges have been filed, and the investigation remains ongoing. Both parties are maintaining opposing positions, with Rose standing by her account and Perry firmly denying the allegations.

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri has ignited widespread conversation online after sharing a spiritual analogy linking the Holy Spirit to artificial intelligence.

In a video posted on Instagram on April 14, 2026, the actress described what she framed as a personal revelation, stating that the Holy Spirit can be understood as the original “first A,I”  a divine helper designed to guide, comfort, and provide answers long before modern technology emerged.

Speaking in a direct and conversational tone, Kadiri said, “God told me that when somebody says, ‘Who is the Holy Spirit?’ The Holy Spirit is what people will call today the first AI.”

Her comparison drew a parallel between how people now interact with AI tools asking questions, seeking clarity, and finding solutions and the traditional Christian belief in the Holy Spirit as a constant, all-knowing guide.

Kadiri’s message centered on what she sees as a growing cultural shift. According to her, many people including Christians are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence for answers and emotional support, rather than relying on spiritual connection.

She warned that this pattern could lead to a deeper sense of emptiness over time, arguing that while AI can offer convenience, it cannot provide true fulfillment. In her view, the Holy Spirit was given as a complete source of direction, wisdom, and comfort; something technology can imitate but not replace.

The actress also framed her message within a broader spiritual narrative, suggesting that modern innovations may reflect attempts to replicate what already exists in a divine form.

The video quickly gained traction across platforms, sparking mixed reactions and debate.

Supporters praised Kadiri for offering a thought-provoking perspective on faith in a tech-driven world. Some described her message as timely, agreeing that spiritual grounding should not be replaced by digital tools.

Others, however, questioned the analogy. Critics argued that comparing the Holy Spirit to AI oversimplifies complex theological concepts, while some dismissed the statement as an attempt to align religious ideas with trending conversations around technology.

Known for her work across Nollywood as an actress, producer, and storyteller, Ruth Kadiri has built a reputation for blending entertainment with personal expression. 

Nigerian chess advocate and social entrepreneur Tunde Onakoya has achieved a historic milestone after becoming the first African to receive the Lideramos Youth Award for Social Impact. The award was presented in Barcelona, recognising his transformative work in underserved communities.

The Lideramos Youth Award celebrates young leaders across the world who are driving meaningful social change. Onakoya’s recognition marks a significant moment, not only for Nigeria but for Africa as a whole.

Onakoya is the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to empowering children in disadvantaged communities through chess and education. Since its inception, the initiative has helped thousands of children gain access to learning opportunities, mentorship, and scholarships, using chess as a tool to build critical thinking and life skills.

His journey from growing up in a modest environment in Lagos to becoming an internationally recognised changemaker has been widely celebrated as a story of resilience and purpose. Through his work, Onakoya has consistently advocated for education as a pathway out of poverty, positioning chess as more than just a game but a vehicle for social transformation.

In addition to his social impact work, Tunde Onakoya gained global attention for his record-breaking chess marathon in New York City in 2024, where he played continuously for over 60 hours in an attempt to set a new Guinness World Records title. The feat was aimed at raising funds and awareness for his initiative, further amplifying his mission to support underserved children through education.

While accepting the award, Onakoya spoke about the importance of small, consistent efforts in creating large-scale change, reinforcing the philosophy that has guided his work over the years.

When Season 3 premiered on April 12, 2026, the episode opened and closed with tributes to three figures whose absence has deeply shaped the show’s journey: Angus Cloud, Eric Dane, and Kevin Turen.

The premiere began with a dedication to Eric Dane and closed with an “in memoriam” message honoring all three, subtle but weighty gestures that frame the episode in reflection. 

Angus Cloud, who portrayed the fan-favorite Fezco, passed away in 2023, leaving a noticeable gap in the show’s emotional core. His performance had become one of the series’ most grounded elements; quiet, protective, and deeply human. The new season acknowledges that absence not with heavy exposition, but with a tone that feels altered, more aware of loss.

Eric Dane, known for his role as Cal Jacobs, also passed away in 2026. His character’s presence in the show had been complex and often unsettling, but undeniably central to its tension. The decision to open the premiere with a dedication to him signals just how significant his contribution was to the series’ identity.

Behind the scenes, Kevin Turen’s passing marked another major loss. As a producer, Turen played a key role in shaping Euphoria into one of television’s most visually distinct and culturally dominant shows. His influence is less visible on screen, but just as embedded in the show.

Series creator Sam Levinson had previously hinted that Season 3 would be shaped by grief. The premiere makes that clear without saying it outright. There’s a tonal shift less chaotic, more reflective as if the show itself is taking a moment to process everything it’s lost.

The third season of Euphoria premiered on April 12, 2026, introducing a major shift in the show’s direction. Set five years after the events of Season 2, the new season follows the characters as young adults dealing with the long-term consequences of their past actions.

The premiere episode centers on Rue, played by Zendaya, whose storyline takes a darker turn as she becomes involved in drug trafficking, marking a more intense and crime-driven narrative.

Season 3 is expected to run for eight episodes, released weekly, and is widely seen as a concluding chapter for the series, with a stronger focus on accountability, survival, and life beyond adolescence.