ENTERTAINMENT IN AFRICA

Asiegbu, Duru drum support for premature babies

2015-11-26T02:45:00.000-08:00

Ejike Asiegbu

The renowned actors who are also Ambassadors of LittleBigSouls International Charitable Foundation, took time out to present gifts to locals as well as celebrate the foundation’s partnership with Natus. LittleBigSouls International Charitable Foundation, with its Jaundice Programme,raising an audible voice in South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana and Globally to honour the million babies that die each year.
Asiegbu in a statement said, Mrs. Yvonne Igweh. CEO/Founder of LittleBigSouls was proud to announce its partnership with Natus, the leading provider of medical devices, software and services for newborn babies.
“This vital impact in the survival and care of babies affected by jaundice is evident in the charitable donation by LittleBigSouls and Natus of the Non-invasive Jaundice/Bilirubin meter(Bilicare) and a Phototherapy light (NeoBlue) to Dora Nginza Hospital in Port Elizabeth on Friday 6th of November 2015 by Mr. Dale Isacks, Natus International Regional Director Middle East and Africa and Mrs Anna Smith, LittleBigSouls International South Africa Co-ordinator and Representative,” Asiegbu said, adding that “jaundice occurs in over 60 per cent of newborn babies and especially affects pre-term babies who may have immature livers and other existing underlying problems, and may not be easily visible on a baby’s skin until levels are exceedingly high. Thus early detection and treatment is vital to prevent complications such as brain damage. The need to be vigilant for jaundice has to be incredibly high immediately from birth.”

Night of stars as AFRIFF ends in grand style

2015-11-26T02:41:00.001-08:00

After a week-long line up of activities, this year’s edition of the prestigious Africa International Film Festival, AFRIFF, ended last Saturday with a call on the practitioners in the film sector in Africa to use their crafts to sell Africa to the rest of the world.
The closing ceremony for the festival started on Friday evening with the screening of the film, Road to Yesterday, starring Genevieve Nnaji and actor Oris Erhuero among others. Genevieve Nnaji, who stars as the conflicted wife, Victoria Udoka, called the closing night gala “an honour” as she graced the red carpet at Genesis Deluxe Cinema alongside co-stars Oris Erhuero, Chioma ‘Chigul’ Omeruah, and Ebele Okaro as well as the film’s director and co-writer Ishaya Bako.
Bako, whose series of highly acclaimed festival favourites, including the award winning “Braids on a Bald Head” said it is “amazing” to be given the honour to close the festival.

Guests at the event

He said: “AFRIFF is a very important part of our industry. Nigerians are great producers of film so I’m thrilled that our movie was given such an honour.” The festival heightened activities at Eko Hotels and Suites, Silverbird Galleria, Genesis Deluxe, and City Mall, all in Victoria Island had screened 180 movies, staged several industry sessions and provided workshops of all kinds for filmmakers from 35 African countries and 25 non-African countries who converged on Lagos. The curtain was brought down on Saturday with a star-studded awards night which held at the Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The awards ceremony started with a presentation to notable Nigerian music video director, Clarence Peters, who the Special jury prize for his first short film, Hex.
But the Short film award was clinched by Cameroonian filmmaker, Christa Eka Assam, for her latest work entitled Alma.
Assam who said she has been attending the festival in the last three years was full of praise for the jury and organizers of the festival for providing a platform to prove herself. Clarence too, felt good that the jury recognized his effort as a first-time filmmaker to have earned the Special Recognition award. While thanking his cast and crew, he dedicated the award to his mum, Clarion Chukwura, saying, “I want to dedicate this award to my mum because without her I won’t be here today.”
Following Peters’ Special Recognition Award by the jury was a Nigerian filmmaker, Tolu Ajayi who also got a Special Mention by the jury for his film, “The Encounter.”The ovation was loudest when Fevers by Moroccan filmmaker, Hicham Ayouch won the overall Best Film.
Other films that won awards were “Silent Tears” by Ishaya Bako (Audience Choice Awards), “Legacy of Rubies” by Ebele Okoye(Best Animation), “Joy” by Solomon Onita Jr. (Best Student Short Film), “E18hteam” by Juan Rodriguez-Briso (Best Documentary), Reflections by Desmond Elliot (Oronto Douglas Award for Best Nigerian Film) and The Price of Love (Best Screenplay)
In the individual categories, Raja Amari won Best Director, while South African actors; Charlie Vundla and Fulu Makhovami won Best Actor and Best Actress for their roles in Cuckold Ayanda respectively. The night was also spiced with music performances by Cobhams Asuquo and Timi Dakolo. While Cobhams performed ‘Cock Crow At Dawn’ originally sang by Bongos Ikwe, Timi Dakolo started off with Cry, in memory of the late patron of AFRIFF and Special Adviser on Research and Documentation to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Oronto Douglas, before performing Wish Me Well to the delight of audience.
The jurors who also got a loud ovation from the crowd include Pedro Pimenta, Soheir Abdel Kader, Prof Hyginus Ekwuazi, Teddy Mattera, Dr Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, Dapo Oshiyemi, Serge-Armand Kouami Noukoue and Asha Lovelace. AFRIFF’s 5th edition kicked off last Sunday with the premiere of Mediterranea by Jonas Carpignano. There were also industry sessions where practitioners jaw-jawed on the way forward as well as training sessions for student filmmakers. The awards night was graced by the who is who in Nollywood. Leading the stars on the night was Genevieve Nnaji and Hilda Dokubo. Others were Dakore Egbuson Akande, Ini Edo, Ugeze.U.Ugeze, Kunle Afolayan, Tope Tedela, Toke Makinwa, Toni Tones, Rita Dominic, Mildred Okwo, Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Grace Oboba Edwin-Okon, O. C. Ukeje, Ramsey Nuoah, Igwe Gabosky, Charles Novia, and Kemi Lala Akindoju among others.

I have kissed over 200 actresses on set— Jim Iyke

2015-11-26T02:33:00.001-08:00

Nollywood bad boy, Jimi Iyke can’t stop being controversial. During the week, the actor openly kissed actress Joselyn Dumas on a live show,and went ahead to confess that he has kissed not less than 200 actresses while on different movie sets.

Jim Iyke and actress Rita Dominic in a movie

He was a Special Guest on AfricaMagic programme which was anchored by Joselyn Dumas. Responding to a question on why he had to kiss Nadia Buari, upon the latter’s arriving Dubai during the last season of his reality TV show, Jim Iyke Unscripted, the controversial actor said, he has a habit of kissing women openly, including his sisters.
He narrated a situation where he had to kiss three European ladies who accompanied his girl friend to the airport to welcome him, during one of his foreign trips, adding that he doesn’t see anything wrong with it.
As if that is not enough, Jim Iyke painted another scenario, where he had to kiss four actresses in the presence of their boy friends. “I have once kissed them on set, and so, when walked into the room where two of them were with their boy friends, I kissed them one after the other and their boy friends were mad at me. I have also kissed over 200 actresses on set and nobody is talking about it,” he enthused.
He, however, declined to comment on his relationship with Nadia Buari. But there are indications that the two unconfirmed love-birds may be hitting your TV screens again for the second season of Jim Iyke Unscripted. Jim disclosed that the reality show will soon hit the screens again.
Explaining the idea behind the show, Jim Iyke said, he needed to present a true picture of who he is, to the world. “I have to be introspective. Many times, a lot of negative things have been said about me in the media. It is not basically about what they say about you, it is about you believing in yourself. The first thing is, what I believe in, and what people say about me is secondary. I have always been particular about paparazzi. I was very sceptical to allow cameras into my life, into my home and family. The argument was superior ; it was like all these years everybody has different opinions about you. Why don’t you give them a clear picture of who you are. So I decided to start the TV reality show,”Jim Iyke explained.
Jim Iyke Unscripted debuted in 2013, on Dstv showcasing the uncut life style of the actor .The series which ran for 13 weeks presented the other side of the controversial actor.

You are too dry on stage, fans blast Adekunle Gold

2015-11-26T02:30:00.002-08:00

It is undeniable that new YBNL signee, Adekunle Gold is talented. His two songs, ‘Sade’ and ‘Orente’ are doing quite well, and his future in
the music industry looks even brighter.
However, the lanky dude and his handlers have to pay urgent and special attention to his stage performances which are nothing to write home about.
Many fans have complained that he is usually boring on stage, and sometimes acts as if he doesn’t really even want to be there. Being a slow-tempo song, it is his performance of it that is supposed to give the number a lift and the needed gingah.
He was at the 2015 All African Music Awards (AFRIMA), last week, where he picked up the award for Revelation of the Year, and he also performed, but many of the guests in attendance complained openly that his performance was drab and lifeless.
Instead of performing with a live band, all he did was mime and barely moved his body to the music.
‘This performance is so boring and I’m so disappointed in him. No doubt, he is talented, but he has a lot of work to do in terms of carrying his fans along whenever he is on stage. If he continues this way, people will easily get tired of him,’ a fan commented.
This was also the same scenario that played out at Gold’s performance at the recently concluded Felabration where many fans complained that his performance was colourless and dry.

What I have achieved is more than any trophy —Seyi Shay

2015-11-26T02:29:00.001-08:00

Soulful artiste, Seyi Shay who recently launched her debut album Seyi or Shay, penultimate Friday, has got everything going for her on easy street. She’s one of the fiver top female singers in the industry and Seyi can beat her chest that it is her talent and a little bit of her attitude that brings home the goods for her.

Seyi Shay

But what the Irawo crooner cannot look upon with a smirk is a shelf full of awards. At least, this year hasn’t been particularly a trophy-laden year, even though she has just clinched an endorsement deal with Pepsi.
“I think I deserve what I am getting right now. Everything I have achieved is so much more than what a trophy can basically give me. I feel my time is now” she said, in an interview to explain why not having many awards coming her way means to her.
For her fans who are confused about the title of her album, she says her alter ego will be discovered in the album. “You will discover who my alter ego is in my album. You will discover why I am called Seyi or Shay in the album”.
The album offers 19 tracks and features a host of other top Nigerian acts, including Femi Kuti, Wizkid, Phyno, Olamide, D’banj, Banky Wand, many others.

Christmas in Lagos’ brings on board Play Barn

2015-11-26T02:28:00.002-08:00

Christmas in Lagos’ brings on board Play Barn Buzz Media, a leading major events management company, is set to change the mood of Christmas in Lagos with ‘Christmas in Lagos’. The amazing event is to hold for five days between December 23 and December 27, at The Muhri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos.
According to Deola Adeyemo, an official of ‘Christmas in Lagos’, “The event is tailored to accommodate children and adults. The daytime series is going to be great Family funfair and a Santa’s Village, for the kids, which is to be powered by Play Barn, Nigeria’s leading child perception marketing and kiddies entertainment company. The night time series promises to host the biggest parties this Christmas to provide different kinds of experience”.
Speaking further, she disclosed that the event will have great local and intercontinental cuisine on display, ‘people will enjoy great food and the best drinks all day long. All we can say is you cannot afford to be anywhere else than at `Christmas in Lagos’.

Rising profile of Omoni Oboli

2015-11-26T02:27:00.000-08:00

For Omoni Oboli, 2015 is turning out to be the year of outstanding and mind blowing achievements especially after she was announced as Nollywood/entertainment personality of the year 2015 by The Sun newspaper, taking over from popular music producer, Don Jazzy who won for the year 2014 and she signed ambassadorial deal with popular family dairy, Nunu milk, a few days ago.

Omoni Oboli

Omoni Oboli’s stellar performance in “The Figurine”, “Render to Caesar” and “Anchor Baby” established her as one of the most talented actresses in Nigeria’s movie industry.
In 2014, she had released her first directorial debut “Being Mrs Elliot” and it was widely considered as the game
changer in the Nollywood industry.
To top that, the movie did exceedingly well at the cinemas. It was a massive hit in film houses throughout the last quarter of 2014. The movie which starred Omoni alongside AY, Majid Michel, Lepacious Bose, Uru Eke, Seun Akindele among others, earned rave reviews from industry professionals and top media practitioners.
This impeccable actress was not going to rest on her oars and in 2015; she also wrote and directed “The First Lady”. The cast included Alex Ekubo, Joseph Benjamin, Yvonne Jegede, Chinedu Ikedieze among others. The movie surpassed her previous movie in box office earnings and also earned her cult followership across the federation.
The tour she embarked on with other casts to promote the flick, endeared her to her fans that had the opportunity to catch a glimpse of their heroine.
Omoni Oboli now sits atop the throne as Nigeria’s number one trending actress of 2015. And she has a lot to be happy about. She has just penned an endorsement deal with Nunu Milk to become their brand ambassador. This new development is a testament to her growing influence and popularity among Nigerians.

Housemates for Next Movie Star 2015 unveiled

2015-11-26T02:25:00.002-08:00

After a rigorous audition process held across several states of Nigeria and a ten-day intensive training, the organizers of the Next Movie Star Reality programme has unveiled the 16 housemates that would be competing for fame and fortune in this year’s show at a colourful ceremony held in Lagos.
The lucky 16 are: Awomade Awatomisin, Temitayo Kujore, Oluwayemisi Kehinde, Folasade Abimbola, Hungbo Florence W, Adeoye Adetunji, Sandra Ifudu, Cynthia Shalom, Akinfolurin Titilayo Rebecca, and Alabi Ajoke Tamunotari.
Others are Hesed Oghenetega Sign, Otoaye Grace, Ogweche Christopher, Alex Agyemeng Ntiamoah, Isatou Jallow, Michel Koffi Ackom, Ofoegbu Chidera Vivian and Esau Owusu Dahnsau. Created eleven years ago by Sola Fajobi, to serve as a platform for budding acting talents to launch a showbiz career, the reality show has over the years churned out a number of stars like Tonto Dikeh, Annie Macaulay, Adams (Soundcity TV OAP) and Big Brother Africa winners, Kelvin Chuwang Pam, Uti Nwachukwu and Karen Igho.
Patrick Doyle, an actor, advised the housemates to be emotionally and psychologically ready for the days ahead.
“The days ahead would determine which of you can actually withstand the heat of the limelight. It is a tough world out there and what the Next Movie Star does is to prepare you for the global stage. Please, be at your best always,” he said.

Bob Manuel Udokwu, Miss Tourism International bag Anambra chieftaincy titles

2015-11-26T02:24:00.002-08:00

It was glitz, glamour and traditional splendour in Umuezeora Enugwu Aguleri, Anambra state, penultimate Saturday, November 14, 2015 at the annual Eri Festival to commemorate the time and arrival of Eri, (the progenitor of the Igbo race at Ime Obu-Gad Palace) as His Royal Highness, His Majesty Eze Chukwuemeka Eri (JP) Eze Eri, Ezeora 34th and Eze Aka Ji Ovo Igbo decorated nine new chiefs.

Bob-Manuel

Among the nine new chiefs are veteran actor Bob-Manuel Udokwu and reigning Miss Tourism International, Miss Ifeoma Sharon Anya. While the veteran actor got the title of Onye Anagba Okilikili of Enugwu Aguleri, meaning, “One that people rush to behold”, the beauty queen was honoured with “Ada Eji Eje Mba 1 of Enugwu Aguleri, meaning “ A woman of substance”.
For Chief Udokwu, the title bestows on him a new responsibility. ”This is no doubt a very positive development and will energise me to do more within and outside the industry. The royal title also carries a lot of responsibilities which I will be steadfast in carrying out” he says
For the beauty queen, on her part, it is tourism and culture. “As a beauty queen and title holder, I am to project Aguleri to the world through tourism and take part in all their cultural activities and let people know the history of the Igbo race” says Chief Sharon Anya, Miss Tourism International.

Why we refused to market Bukky Fabuyi’s film

2015-11-26T02:21:00.002-08:00

Up and rising Yoruba actress, Bukky Fagbuyi is currently embroiled in a cold war of sort with Yoruba Video Film Producers and Marketers Association (YVFPMA) led by Alhaji Abdulahi Rasaq of Corporate Pictures, over the release of her new film ‘Sekunola’. Information reaching Potpourri has it that the marketers association refused to distribute the film and asked its various distribution channels to shun having anything to do with the actress and her film.

Abdulahi Rasaq

However, the actress went on to release the film on DVD to the market on Monday, November 16, 2015 through an independent marketer, a non-member of the Yoruba Video Film Producers and Marketers Association (YVFPMA), Integrity Productions and Marketing.
Since then, speculations have run wild on social media on what went wrong between the actress and the marketers association, with much of the finger-pointing directed at the president of the association. Some have said the association is only trying to frustrate the release of the film, having failed to strike a good deal with the producer in view of the big hype that greeted the film after its successful premieres in many countries including the United States of America.
To set the record straight, Potpourri had a chat with Alhaji Abdulahi Rasaq of Corporate Pictures and President, Yoruba Video Film Producers and Marketers Association (YVFPMA).

What is the problem between Bukky Fagbuyi and Yoruba movie marketers, over the release of her film “Sekunola”?
We don’t have problems with anybody. Every association has its rule and we are not exempted. Our association protect the collective interests of our members and clients. We don’t disturb anybody from doing his or her business. I also have the constitutional right to protect the interest of my members. We have a standard rule in our association. Films must be approved by our Film Release Committee before it is released into the market and such film must be in a circular. This rule has been in existence for many years. Also, our members have been instructed not to sell films that are not in our circular. I don’t think we have done anything outside our constitution. Anyone can sell anything of his or her choice but our members are guided by our own rules and regulations and have to obey the rules of the association.

Must your association be the only one to release a film into the market?
No. Every Nigerian has the right to belong or not to belong to an association. What I have been discussing with you is the “Marketing Right”. I don’t really interfere in the business dealings between our members and their clients. But as the President of the association, my primary assignment is to protect the interest of my members and also ensure they abide by the rules of the association. I also need to stress that I can’t control or monitor the activities of a marketer who is not a member of our association. However, it is not only our members that are selling films in Nigeria. We should begin to learn to do things in the right way as Nigerians.

So, why are you boycotting marketing of her film?
My point is this, anyone who wants to release a film has to follow some rules. He or she has to apply to our Film Release Committee, who will submit the documentation to Nigeria Film Censor Board. We have to see that the person must have agreed to all our rules and regulations , when this is done, then we will put the film on the list of films to be released into the market. The point is this, a non member of an association cannot enjoy the benefits of the association. Our association is well structured. We don’t have problems with anyone releasing a film in Nigeria but if the film is to be released by a member of my association, then it has to follow our rules to the last letter. When a person is not our member, we don’t have business with that person. In fact, the film was not submitted and as such, won’t be released. We didn’t receive any application. It is not done in any part of the world. No one can enjoy benefits from an association he or she doesn’t belong to. How do you expect my members to sell your films, when you are not our member? At the same time, there is freedom of association. Even our members have to submit their films into our circular, screened and approved, before their films are released. Otherwise, other members will not market the film.

Juliet Ibrahim, Bryan Okwara light up 3D Shapify launch

2015-11-26T02:20:00.002-08:00

Juliet Ibrahim, Bryan Okwara and a host of other celebrities gathered last weekend at the unveiling of the first 3D Shapify printing technology in Nigeria and Africa by a United States based company – 3D Makery.com (with its Nigerian company situated in Ikeja) at the Ikeja City Mall, Lagos.
The company, founded by Nigerian serial entrepreneur, Israel Ovirih who seems to be overwhelmed by the power of innovation and the drive to continue to champion unique solutions that can bring excitement and fulfillment to lives through the deployment of technology and art forms, described the advent of the 3D technology into Africa as a significant moment, that will disrupt the lifestyle of people positively in the region.
According to him, the introduction of this service also marks the first in Africa and one of the numerous few that are available globally (only 19 are available worldwide including the only one in Africa).
This also promises to offer Nigerians a unique experience scanning and having their 3D selfies or portrait printed.
As part of the build to the event, a leading brand from the stable of Bacardi Nigeria – Martini partnered 3D Makery in the unveiling event through the use of its brand ambassador, Bryan Okwara.
The CEO further described the 3D technology as the fourth revolution that will transform the global landscape with high-definition digital tech systems delivery and also asserted that it takes 6minutes to scan and print objects, image, person or group, work etc, which is a cutting edge for the technology.
The 3D selfie experience brings the ability to personalize moments and brand experiences, delivering mass customisation fitting for products and tailored to corporate and individual requirements.

Celine Dion leads music world in mourning Paris

2015-11-26T02:19:00.001-08:00

Celine Dion on Sunday led the music industry in an emotional tribute to the victims of the Paris attacks, as the American Music Awards heard appeals for a peaceful world.
The Canadian singer sang Edith Piaf’s classic “Hymne a l’Amour” (“Hymn to Love”) in French at the star-studded ceremony in Los Angeles, which went ahead barely a week after the assault on a concert hall and other civilian targets across Paris.
In front of a screen flashing images of Paris that culminated with the Eiffel Tower in the French flag’s tricolor, Dion sang the song of lost love as some members of the audience were seen in tears.
Dion was introduced by the actor and musician Jared Leto, who recalled playing with his band Thirty Seconds to Mars earlier this year at the historic Bataclan theater that saw the heaviest death toll in the November 13 attacks.
Some 130 people died but “another seven billion will forever be scarred by this horrific and senseless tragedy,” Leto said.
“France matters, Russia matters, Syria matters, Mali matters, the Middle East matters, the United States matters — the entire world matters. And peace is possible,” he said to applause.
Leto also took aim at anti-foreigner sentiment that has emerged in the wake of the Paris attacks, which was claimed by the Islamic State group.
“Many of us here are the sons and the daughters of immigrants,” he said, pointing out that late Apple innovator Steve Jobs was of Syrian heritage.
– Music ‘positive’ amid tragedy –
The tribute was a rare somber note in the made-for-television gala, although the electronic producer Skrillex also referred to world turmoil as he accepted an award for his work with pop celebrity Justin Bieber.
“There is so much negative stuff going on in the world, so it’s up to us to be positive,” Skrillex said of musicians’ role.
The rap duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis also took to the stage to debut a new song, “Kevin,” a politically charged tale of drug addiction’s toll in modern America that featured the soul singer Leon Bridges.
The American Music Awards are designed as a glitzy extravaganza and, unlike the more prestigious Grammy Awards which will take place in February, the winners are determined by voting from fans rather than the music industry.
For the second straight year, British boy band One Direction won Artist of the Year.
The prize comes just after the band released its latest album, “Made in the A.M.,” that the group says will be its last before a hiatus.
Pop superstar Taylor Swift won three awards, more than anyone else, including favorite album for her blockbuster “1989.”
– Surprise moments –
Ariana Grande, the child star turned arena-packing pop singer, beat out Swift for favorite female pop or rock artist.
The 22-year-old, initially at a loss for words, thanked her gray-haired grandmother who had been sitting next to her in the audience.
“I think I owe a lot of this to my nonna,” Grande, who is of Italian descent, said in reference to her grandmother.
“She told me, ‘Ariana, I went on the computer and voted, so I think you’ll win.'”
In a sign of the burgeoning US market for country music, the award for favorite new artist went to Nashville crooner Sam Hunt, who outpaced emerging stars in other genres including The Weeknd who won in the two R&B categories.
In one of the moments that drew the most attention on social media, young singer Charlie Puth passionately kissed Meghan Trainor after they sang together.
Puth and Trainor, who has become a star in part due to her struggles with body image, had teamed up for his song “Marvin Gaye,” which uses the name of the legendary “Let’s Get It On” R&B singer as a euphemism for sex.

MTN to settle `Baba 2010’ N500m Copyright suit out of court — Lawyer

2015-11-26T00:59:00.001-08:00

Abuja – Multi-national Communication giant, MTN has commenced `out of court settlement’ process in a N500 million copyright suit filed against it by Mr Omenuwoma Dovie a.k.a Baba 2010, an Abuja based entertainer/ artist.
Counsel to Baba 2010, Mr Rockson Igelige, made he disclosure on Tuesday in Abuja.
“We (Baba 2010 attorneys) met three days ago with MTN and steps are being taken to resolve the case out of court.
“Because we are dealing with figures, we will not want to disclose the details,’’ he said.
Baba 2010 had demanded N500 million damages from MTN for copyright violation of four of his original musical compositions and recordings.
According to his statement of claim dated Nov. 4 2015, MTN reproduced and stored the musician’s songs electronically.
The telecom’s provider was also accused of selling the musician songs on the internet via its website (www.mtnonline.com) to existing and potential customers as ring-back tones or caller tunes.
The original compositions of Baba 2010 songs contained in his Compact Disc album Twisted, released in 2005, were sold to subscribers in the form of caller tunes or ringtones.
The songs, coded 001087 (“Gentleman”), 001088 (“Omotena”), 001089 (“Twisted”) and 001090 (“Unity Song”) were stored electronically, reproduced and offered to MTN’s subscribers on payment of N50 each for one month subject to N50 monthly renewal charge.
The musical works could also be downloaded on specified terms onto a subscriber’s mobile phone by sending the relevant code to the number 4100 designated for the purpose by MTN.
The plaintiff Baba 2010 was never contacted by MTN and had not given permission for his songs to be reproduced or sold by the defendant or anybody.

Actor John Stamos sentenced to 3 years’ probation

2015-11-26T00:58:00.002-08:00

Actor John Stamos on Tuesday pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of driving in Beverly Hills, California, under the influence of a drug. He was, subsequently, sentenced to three years’ probation, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office said.
Stamos, 52, was also ordered by Los Angeles County Superior Court to complete a three-month alcohol abuse programme, attend 52 Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. The actor is to also take two hours of addiction counseling, District Attorney’s Office spokesman, Ricardo Santiago, said.
The court also ordered alcohol recovery programmes in cases of substance abuse. The actor was arrested on June 12 on suspicion of driving under the influence, after witnesses reported Stamos was “behaving strangely and driving erratically.”
Officials at the time did not specify what substance was involved. Stamos is currently the star of Fox TV sitcom “Grandfathered” and is best known for his role in sitcom “Full House,” which ran from 1987 to 1995.

Don Jazzy ignores D’Banj on stage

2015-09-30T04:32:00.001-07:00

D’banj as a singer and Don Jazzy the producer used to be the perfect team as the honchos of Mo’hits Records. But like a bolt from the blue, their hitherto smooth relationship collapsed in 2012 like a pack of badly arranged cards.

Don-jazzy-Dbanj

Ever since, fans and colleagues in the music industry have been begging the duo to come back together and rework their magic.
However, what could have been the perfect opportunity for the two heavyweights to address the issue came to pass on Sunday, September 20,at the Eko Hotel-venue of 2face Idibia’s Fortyfied Concert.
D’banj mounted the stage to perform some of his hit songs to the delight of the audience, and halfway through, he said he was going to perform a song, ‘Feeling Good’ produced by Don Jazzy and featuring 2face that was leaked online before it could be properly released.
He beckoned on Don Jazzy to join him on stage to perform the song, but Jazzy remained glued to his seat with new Mavin signees, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, and Dija.
Even when 2face begged the duo to produce one more hit together, Don Jazzy remained resolute. In 2face’s words, ‘Don Jazzy and D’banj, abeg make una do one more song, just one…. I take God beg una.’
D’banj instantly responded with the words, “Sure! It’s going to happen,” while Don Jazzy still remained on his seat without even a smile.
This led many of the guests in attendance to insinuate that D’banj was more eager for a come-back than Don Jazzy is.

2Face’s baby mamas shuns his birthday concert

2015-09-30T04:26:00.002-07:00

On Sunday, September 20, an All-Star Tribute was staged in 2Face’s honour at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, and we were there to bring you all the details.
What surprised many was that 2Face’s babies’ mothers, Sunmbo Ajaba (Adeoye) and Pero Adeniyi, were conspicuously absent from the public event. Though Sunmbo is now married to Pastor Adeoye, Pero is unmarried.
Many were expecting that the mothers of his children would be on hand to celebrate with him, but they were a no-show. On the other hand, this also afforded 2Face’s legal wife, Annie Macaulay the opportunity to bask in the spotlight as the Queen in his life; and indeed all eyes were on her.
Pero has three kids for the singer, while Sunmbo has two for him.
Meanwhile, two of 2face’s lovely children, Nino and Zion, got many ladies wet with tears in the eyes when a video of their tribute to their father was played at the Fortified concert. They wished their father a happy birthday, and prayed for better and bigger things in his life.

#MTNProjectFame8 : Who else deserve to have won, if not Jeff?

2015-09-30T04:25:00.001-07:00

As 18-yr-old Jeffrey Akoh emerges winner at the 8^th edition of 2015 MTN Project Fame, some followers of the talent hunt show have reacted differently to the result.

MTN project fame 2015: The last men standing

While Jeff’s fans celebrate his shine at the largely viewed show his critics see his emergence as winner very shocking but the ultimate question we ask is, who else deserve to have won if not Jeff?

The winner: Jeffery

Kunle Afolayan’s October 1 wins multiple awards at AMAA 2015

2015-09-30T04:23:00.000-07:00

uperstar actor and director Kunle Afolayan has continued to prove that he is indeed the best director we have around. The handsome filmmaker continues his great streak as he clinched a hat-trick of awards at the just concluded 11th edition of the Africa Movie Academy Awards is at Port Elizabeth in South Africa.
His blockbuster film October I cliches 3 awards: Best costume design: October 1 – Nigeria , Best Nigerian Film: October 1 and Best actor in a leading role: Sadiq Daba – October 1
It will be recalled the same October 1 dominated the 2015 edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards which held in Lagos earlier in the year. October 1 clinched the following awards: Best Actress in a Drama: Kehinde Bankole for October 1; . Best Art Director (Movie/ TV): Pat Nebo for October 1 ;Best Costume Designer (Movie/ TV): Deola Sagoe & Obijie Oru for October 1 ; . Best Drama Writer (Movie/ TV): Tunde Babalola for October 1 ; Best Lighting Designer: Lanre Omofaiye for October 1 ;Best Make: Up Artist: Sacred Lola Maja for October 1 ; Best Movie Director: Kunle Afolayan for October 1 ; Best Movie of 2014: Kunle Afolayan for October 1 ; and Best Sound Editing: Kulanen Ikyo For October 1
Though the film which the actor claimed cost in hundreds of millions to produced has been widely pirated by the industry’s cankerworms but it seems hardwork and ingenuity always wins the day.

US Consulate General, House on the Rock to premier Hollywood thriller

2015-09-30T04:21:00.000-07:00

The House on the Rock Church and the United States Consulate General, have concluded plans to hold the premier of a Hollywood thriller titled: Captive.
Captive is a story of faith, redemption, and survival, based on the true story of a hostage using Rick Warren’s best-selling book, A Purpose Driven Life, to find her own path to redemption and persuade her captor to find his.
British-Nigerian actor and Golden Globe Award nominee David Oyelowo, who recently portrayed Martin Luther King, Jnr. in the film Selma, and American actress Kate Mara who acted in the House of Cards, The Fantastic Four among others.
The event which aims at awakening a purpose-driven life for all Nigerians, would hold on October 1, 2015 in Lagos at the Rock Cathedral.
The movie has been deployed effectively by House on The Rock to promote orderliness, tranquility and purposeful leadership in Nigeria.
Recall that the church, in partnership with the United States Embassy successfully premiered Selma during the country’s general elections earlier in the year, and was attended by over 5000 attendees including celebrities and government officials among others.

How Jeff won 2015 MTN Project Fame

2015-09-30T04:20:00.000-07:00

Budding singer, Jeffrey Ufedo Akor weekend emerged winner of the MTN Project Fame West Africa Season 8, smiling home with star prize of N5million, a brand new, fully loaded SUV and a recording contract worth millions of Naira. It has been a completely exciting season with weeks of hard-work and dedication.

Jeff

It started with auditions in several cities in West Africa, and translated into eight weeks of fun, tension and scintillating performances for the 16 contestants that made it into the Academy.
For the six finalists that made it to the finals (Ada, Arewa, Anderson, Deinde, Jeff, and Pearl), things will never be the same again as they have indeed gone through a beneficial and life-altering eight weeks in the Academy.
Grand Finale nights like this have birthed the likes of Iyanya, Mike, Chidinma, Monica, Ayoola, Olawale and Geoffrey. And with only one of these six to join the league of extraordinary superstars, the question on everyone’s mind was, who will it be?
But before it got to that, the show kicked off on a promising note as the six finalists stepped onto the stage in their monochrome outfits and delivered a melodious, yet emotional group song titled ‘Pray For Me’ by Dare Art Alade.
The rest of the night turned out to be an exciting journey with great entertainment lined up in form of collabos. Yes, the six finalists had been paired up with some A-list artistes to produce amazing remixed versions of their songs, and so each team stepped on stage and brought nothing but pure joy as they sang, danced and glowed.
First to perform were Jeff and energetic Yemi Alade doing ‘K.I.S.S.I.N.G’ remix. Followed by Pearl and Chidinma who gracefully performed ‘Kedike’ remix. Deinde and Iyanya got everyone dancing with ‘Mr Oreo’ remix. Anderson and Praiz with their vocal dexterities delivered ‘Rich and Famous’ remix. While Arewa and 9ice paired up for the remix of the evergreen ‘Gongo Aso’.
Ada and Sound Sultan closed this round of entertainment with their creative rendition of ‘MotherLand’ remix. Amazingly, these collaborations are now available as caller ring back tunes. It was then time to get down to the business of the day. The moment of truth as many calls it, often characterized by a pin-drop silence.
With the audience eyes wide open, gasping heartbeats and trembling feet, the hosts of the show –Joseph Benjamin and Bolanle Olukanni took turns to announce the winner and runners-up of season eight. Ada Tosanwumi, third runner-up. She went home with a cash prize of two million naira while Anderson Amos emerged second runner-up.
He walked away with two million naira and a brand new saloon car. Pearl Awa-Agwu, first runner-up. She earned three million naira and a brand new saloon car.
With scores of spectacular performances and several millions of votes; the winner of MTN Project Fame Season eight is Jeffrey Ufedo Akor. He carted away five million naira, a brand new, fully loaded SUV and a recording contract worth millions of Naira. The sixth and fifth positions will also be rewarded with five hundred thousand naira and one million naira respectively.

Photos: See Olamide, Banky W rocking pool party with sexy bikini ladies

2015-09-30T04:18:00.000-07:00

Prime night club Quilox always has a hang on things when it comes to entertainment.
Every last Saturday of the month is always something special but this last Saturday was more special than many as music top stars, sexy ladies in bikinis stormed the club for what was described as daytime experience Quilox Ultra Pool Party.
Banky W, Wizkid, Olamide, Adekunle Gold were all in the house for the mad fun.
See Photos:

I ‘ll remarry, if God says so — Chika Ike

2015-09-25T02:29:00.000-07:00

Nollywood actress, Chika Ike may not have a special man in her life at the moment, after her marriage with Ebiribi crashed two years ago, but she is optimistic that she will remarry someday.
The adorable actress told POTPOURRI in a chat, that she will remarry as long as God approves it. “I will remarry if God says so,” she declares. Chika expressed joy that her elder sister, Vivien has followed her footsteps, as she recently debuted in Nollywood.
By BENJAMIN NJOKU
What it means to be in the same industry with my sibling
It is great to see that I have a sibling that is in the same industry with me. I am happy about it. When she told me she wanted to join the industry, I supported her. This is because before now, Vivien has always wanted to be in Nollywood. It didn’t come to me as a shock because she accompanied me to my first audition ever before I became an actress. She was there with me, but she had to travel out of the country at that time.
Growing up with Vivien
Growing up with Vivien was fun. We are sisters,though she’s one year older than myself. We agreed to disagree while growing up. I am going to give her my hundred and one percent support. Whatever she needs from me, I will be there for her. I have been in the industry for close to a decade now. So, I believe I know so much about the industry compared to her. I am here for her, whatever she needs from me, I will be willing to support her. My advice to her is to never give up. The industry is not a bed of roses: there are peaks and valleys. When you get to your peaks, you celebrate and when you get to your valleys, you endure it, hoping to celebrate again.
My reality TV show, the African Diva
It is doing very well. We have just completed our first season which was won by Love Egbule. Right how, we are registering for the second season. It has been wonderful, I have been busy touring African countries. I have been to Ghana, Togo, Côte d‘Ivoire and Benin Republic. I have been doing media tour creating awareness about the brand. It is something that has come to stay. It is something I am very passionate about, so far so good.” The winner of the first season,Egbule, which had about 22 contestants went home with N4 million, an acting contract, one year supply of Fancy Nancy accessories, cover girl of VL Magazine and other prizes. She also had her acting debut in a movie titled “All Of Me” which is produced by Chika’s Productions. Winner of the second season of the reality show will smile home with a huge sum of $10,000, a brand new car, acting career for one year and supply of fancy Nancy accessories.
What inspired the project
I have always had this idea of appreciating and glorifying the African woman. I said to myself, what can I do to give back to the society and at the same time to entertainment people and promote our cultures and traditions. The show focuses on the search for the ideal African woman. That was how I came up with the project.
Because of your tight schedule, you no longer have time to hit movie locations?
I have been working but not as much as I used to work before now. This is because when you are busy, you have to also prioritize things. You can’t do as much as you used to do before because of your schedule. Yes, I am still working, but also, doing this at the corner. So, right now, my attention and my work schedule are being shared.
Are you not thinking of producing your own movies?
I am already a producer. My movie, Miss Teacher, will be in the cinema on 25th September. I just finished a production with the winner of African Diva Season One . It is called All of Me. So, I have produced two movies now and also, my production outfit for my African Diva show.

Since debuting in the industry in 2005
I think I have been on the path of self- discovery. I have discovered myself as a woman. I have also discovered myself as a business woman. I have grown in the industry, and I have also embraced the change that has happened in my life. A lot of things have changed about me. It is normal. I have discovered the woman I am, and I have learnt the art of running a business empire.
People misunderstanding me
I don’t know why it happens, but everybody has their own opinion about how they see people. Basically, I am who I am.
What I look out for in a script
The story, and then, I want to know who I am working with. I reject scripts for two reasons, either the story isn’t good or the fee is discouraging.
Remarry!
I will remarry when God says so. I want to be the best I can be in my chosen career.

BasketMouth, Flavour, Shuga to light up Eko Hotel

2015-09-25T02:26:00.002-07:00

Famous comedian Basket Mouth is set to crack ribs at an exclusive event on Tuesday, 22 September, just 2 weeks ahead of his Lord Of The Ribs concert on October 4.
Happening at Eko hotel, the occasion promises to be ‘the’ corporate event of the year with spectacular performances from superstars like Flavour, Darey Art Alade, Shuga Band, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu and of course Basket Mouth.
The much-anticipated corporate event in addition to performances from the superstar entertainers will also see Interswitch unveil its brand new corporate identity.

They came, they drank, they got engaged: The story of Ekene and Ngozi

2015-09-25T02:25:00.001-07:00

When Ekene asked Ngozi to accompany him to last Sunday’s Pearl Look 2015 beauty pageant, she did not suspect that anything was amiss. After dating the broad chested Foschini outfit manager for more than five years, it was nothing unusual for him to invite her to spend a Sunday afternoon together at an event.
This was to be the Sunday afternoon of a lifetime though, as Ekene had an almighty surprise in store for her. As they sat sipping Star Radler, comedian EmmaOhMaGod performing at the event decided unexpectedly to take Ngozi onstage during a stand-up routine about proposing marriage.
To her shock, Ekene suddenly appeared onstage and knelt down with a ring. She could not hold back the tears as she said yes, and the crowd at Havilah Centre erupted into wild cheers.
Who says Nigerian men are not romantic?
See pictures of the cute event below.

Ekene and Ngozi

Afrocandy flaunts pubic hair on social media

2015-09-25T02:23:00.001-07:00

Nigerian US-based singer and actress, Judith Mazagwu, known in the entertainment world as Afrocandy is a hot item any day any time. The acclaimed queen of porn in Nigeria current has a picture of herself on the Whatsapp, showing off plenty of her mother nature’s gift, particularly of the honey pot area, only in g-string pants and bra, revealing so much of her pubic hair.

Afrocandy: Vanguard, guided by ethics could not publish the full photograph.

Recall Afrocandy in an exclusive interview with Vanguard has said she is not a porn star but admitted she loves the ascription Nigerian media has given her after her erotic film ‘Destructive Instinct’ sent the African entertainment world into pandemonium.
But months after that she launched her own porn site dubbed www.africanetwork.com where she engages in nothing but adult stuffs. Do you think she’s a porn star or not?
Seeing the erotic nature of the picture I decided to sound her out to know the big idea behind having such as her ‘display picture’. “ Seeing almost everything, even the pubic hair, whats the big idea? I asked her. “ The idea is to get you girls having a huge hard-ons” she replied crisply and simply.