Entertainment
Asake ready to buy me house, says father, baby mama alleges neglect
Odunsi aka Malo who is left paralysed in some parts of his body after suffering from a stroke and being unable to pay his medical bills called out Asake in a viral video on Thursday asking Nigerians to beg the artiste to assist him.
This is as Asake’s alleged Babymama, identified as Adijat, also accused the singer of neglecting her and their daughter, Zeenat.
In an interview with digital creator, Aki Abolade, popularly known as Mrlilgaga, on Sunday, Odunsi was seen praying for the singer as he expressed happiness, saying Asake had agreed to take care of all the issues raised.
Speaking in Yoruba, he expressed pride in Asake and showered him with prayers.
He added that he called out Asake because it had been a long time since he saw him.
‘’He (Asake) has said they should look for a house that he will buy for me and they have been looking for it since yesterday (Saturday). He has started doing it,” he said in Yoruba in the video posted by @Mrlilgaga on Instagram on Sunday.
“I’m proud of him,” he said when asked if he was proud of his son. “He will not be unfortunate, nothing will happen to him, and he will not go down.”
Speaking on why he was angry with his son, Odunsi said, “It was because I had not seen him in a long time. His mother ought to ask him, ‘When was the last time you saw your father?’ That was what infuriated me but we have settled everything. There is no fight anymore,” he said as he sang in proverbs, denoting that there was no fight anymore.
“He has reached out to me and he has said he will do everything I wanted,” he said as he sang again. “We have settled our issues. He has called and spoken with me, there is no issue again.”
Asake came under fire over the weekend as netizens and residents in the Isale Eko area of Lagos expressed disappointment over the artiste’s perceived neglect of his ailing father, Odunsi.
On Friday, a viral video that featured Odunsi, who identified himself as Asake’s father, stirred controversy on social media about the Lonely at the Top crooner.
In the video, Odunsi claimed he had not seen Asake since 2022, when his health began to deteriorate, and that he felt the need to publicly seek help.
Odunsi further alleged that despite Asake’s fame and success, the singer had not been financially supportive of him.
In response, Asake addressed the issue in a cryptic yet emotional message shared on TikTok.
Singing in Yoruba, he said, “You can’t please everyone, you can’t please the world. But anything you are doing, just do it for God.
“My own father wants to cajole me, and I have sent so much money to him. I have struggled for so many years, but they want to make life tire me.”
Amid the drama, Asake’s family broke their silence, not only addressing the allegations but also accusing the singer of neglecting his daughter, Zeenat, and her mother.
They urged Asake to take responsibility for his father’s welfare and expressed willingness to conduct a DNA test to determine the paternity of 11-year-old Zeenat.
A woman featured in the video made a direct appeal to the singer, saying, “I am begging you, Ololade Mr Money. He should come and do the needful.
“Please take care of your father. If you don’t want to support him directly, buy him a house in Isale Eko where he can earn rent income to survive.
“In this Isale Eko, you can see a house of N40m, N50m that you can build so that this man can be collecting rent. Also, if you are in doubt about Zeenat, the mother has agreed to a DNA test.”
The controversy took a new twist on Saturday when a lady identified simply as Adijat, who claimed to be Asake’s baby mama said the singer abandoned his 11-year-old daughter.
According to Adijat, the singer blocked her after he became famous and she attempted to get close to him and made him responsible for his daughter.
“I have an 11-year-old daughter for Asake. Before he became famous I always supported him. I sent him all my savings when he was at the University of Ife (Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife).
“Asake used to call me to thank me for standing by him, but now I have tried to reach out to Asake but he starts saying that I am forcing myself on him.
“He even said if I continued to disturb him, he would block me on all his socials like WhatsApp, and after Asake got famous, he sent N1m to me and his daughter,” Adijat said in Yoruba during a live chat on TikTok.
When asked about what plans Asake had for the daughter in the Sunday interview, Odunsi said the singer had agreed to take care of the daughter.
“He (Asake) has said he will take care of her,” he said.
When asked if the singer had accepted the daughter, Odunsi responded, “Yes, he has accepted him. He had accepted her from the start. He accepted his child, he has never denied his child. He will take care of the child,” Odunsi, flanked by likely family members, responded.
Odunsi also denied being irresponsible contrary to speculations on social media.
Netizens hail singer
Netizens on TikTok have lauded Asake’s move to take care of his family.
Users who commented under the video on Tik Tok said the singer had done the right thing.
@Arinola2505 prayed, “Asake, God will bless you. (Your) children will also compete to pamper you too.”
“Wow! Asake, I am very proud of you, you are the true son of your father,” @tactec002 posted.
@nigeriaCNN, said, “God bless this man (Odunsi), he quickly protected him (Asake).”
@armakod gave “kudos to you Asake, more achievements for you this year.”
@luv4twins wrote, “It’s the right time for all the fathers to fight for their rights from their rich kids or else some mothers will not let them do anything for their father till he dies.”
Entertainment
Veteran actor, Clarus of New Masquerade, dies at 85
The news of his passing was announced on Tuesday by a fellow actor, Tony Akposheri, in an Instagram post.
Akposheri expressed shock and sadness over the death of the actor, recalling their recent interactions.
He revealed that they had recently spent time together during the New Year, sharing memories and discussing future plans.
“Today, my heart is heavy. Davis Ofor, fondly known as Clarus from New Masquerade, is gone.
“We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead,” he wrote.
“We spoke about life, about plans, about how far we had come. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you.”
Describing the late actor as more than just a screen personality, Akposheri paid tribute to his character and impact.
“It is hard to believe that the voice I heard not long ago is now a memory. Hard to accept that someone so full of life can suddenly become a story we tell.”
He added, “Rest well, my friend. You came, you gave joy, you made your mark, and you will never be forgotten.”
Clarus gained prominence for his role in New Masquerade, one of Nigeria’s most popular television comedy shows, where his character became a household name.
Details surrounding the cause of his death were not immediately available.
Ofor rose to prominence for his role as Clarus in New Masquerade, a widely acclaimed Nigerian television comedy that aired on the Nigerian Television Authority and became a household favourite in the 1980s.
His portrayal of the comic character earned him national recognition and endeared him to audiences across the country, making Clarus one of the most memorable figures in Nigerian television history.
Entertainment
Nigerians spend N1.54tn on beer, others in nine months
According to the unaudited financial statements of Nigerian Breweries Plc, International Breweries Plc, and Champion Breweries Plc for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, the companies collectively recorded strong top-line performance driven largely by beer sales.
Nigerian Breweries Plc, the largest brewer in the country, recorded net revenue of N1.05tn for the period, up from N710.87bn in the corresponding period of 2024. Cost of sales stood at N631.23bn, resulting in a gross profit of N415.15bn.
After accounting for selling and distribution expenses of N193.85bn, administrative expenses of N59.58bn, finance costs of N39.15bn, and other charges, the company posted a profit after tax of N85.51bn, compared with a loss of N149.50bn in 2024. Basic earnings per share rose to 275 kobo from a loss of 1,455 kobo in the previous year.
In March, Nigerian Breweries Plc announced a return to profitability in the first quarter of 2025, reporting a 186 per cent increase in net profit compared to the same period in 2024. The unaudited financial results released on the Nigerian Exchange Limited showed that revenue for the period ended March 31, 2025, rose to N383.6bn, representing a 68.9 per cent increase from N227.1bn recorded in the first quarter of 2024.
International Breweries Plc, which operates in Nigeria and other West African markets, generated revenue of N472.57bn for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, up from N343.45bn in the same period of 2024.
The company reported a profit after tax of N57.83bn, reversing a loss of N112.81bn in 2024. Cost of sales increased to N311.64bn from N248.58bn, while administrative, marketing, and distribution expenses rose to N92.09bn from N72.68bn.
International Breweries Plc posted a profit of N11.9bn for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, marking a turnaround from a loss of N47.3bn in the same period last year. The company’s unaudited financial statements showed revenue increased to N167.4bn in Q2 2025 from N120bn in Q2 2024, while gross profit rose to N61.9bn from N33.8bn.
Overall, the combined revenue of the three companies amounted to N1.54tn, with Nigerian Breweries Plc accounting for the bulk of sales.
Analysts say the figures highlight the resilience of Nigeria’s beer market, which continues to benefit from strong brand loyalty and distribution networks despite rising production costs and broader macroeconomic pressures.
Commenting on consumer behaviour, the Head of Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co., Ayokunle Olubunmi, said the market is experiencing a gradual shift in spending patterns, with some consumers reducing beer consumption, a trend influencing how breweries adjust their strategies.
“Following AB InBev’s acquisition of International Breweries, the company invested in new breweries and production facilities to expand capacity. This indicates that firms are prioritising scaling operations and improving efficiency to meet rising demand and strengthen their market position,” Olubunmi said.
On the broader economic impact, the Chief Executive Officer of Economic Associates, Ayo Teriba, cautioned that strong sales figures do not necessarily translate into greater economic contribution.
“The point is that bigger isn’t necessarily better. Sales may be boosted by size, but if that size reflects purchases from other companies rather than actual value added, the contribution to the economy is limited. What really matters is net output, what value the company is actually creating. GDP, after all, is the sum of value created, not just total sales figures,” Teriba said.
Entertainment
Controversial Musician Portable Remanded in Custody Over Alleged Assault
Controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been remanded in custody following his arraignment on Monday over multiple criminal charges.
The singer was arraigned on a nine-count charge bordering on assault, theft, causing bodily harm, and resisting arrest.
Confirming the development, Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the charges stemmed from a complaint filed by Portable’s estranged partner, Ashabi Simple.
The arraignment followed a viral video on Sunday showing the singer in police custody.
According to the prosecution, Portable allegedly assaulted Ashabi Simple, several police officers, and other individuals at his bar located in Iyana Ilogbo on New Year’s Day.
Other alleged victims listed in the charge include Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah.
Portable is also accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at N12 million, belonging to Ileyemi Damilola and reportedly purchased from Wally Dex Auto.
It was gathered that two siblings of Ashabi Simple testified as witnesses in court, although Ashabi herself was absent during the proceedings.
The police further alleged that Portable obstructed and assaulted a female police inspector, Ogungbe Olayemi, while she was carrying out her official duties.
The presiding judge denied the singer bail, citing the absence of the allegedly assaulted police officer in court. The judge ruled that the officer must be present before bail could be considered.
Portable was consequently remanded in custody, with the bail hearing adjourned to January 19, 2026.
Entertainment
Anambra Govt Announces 13 Days Christmas Events With Flavour, Others
By Okey Maduforo Awka
The Anambra state government has announced 13 Days of Mass Return of it’s kit and kin ahead of this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The Mass Return which heralds the liberation of the eight local government areas that had in the past been under the grip of gunmen until the inception of Governor Charles Soludo administration would also witness the home coming of her son and popular highlife musician Mr Chinedu Okoli aka Flavor Nabalia
The over one week celebration would commence from December 18th to January 4th 2026 would also present masquerade and cultural festivities as well as old school and Gen Z musical performances tagged OnwaDezemba .
The State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor who disclosed this while briefing Journalists in Awka on Tuesday, said the celebration is part of lineup of events for the highly anticipated Ọnwa Dezemba, a Christmas extravaganza aimed at making December 2025 memorable for people of the state.
Mefor, said the initiative forms part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s efforts to ensure residents actively participate in the festive season while celebrating Anambra’s rich cultural heritage and entertainment offerings.
Mefor said the programme, scheduled to run from December 18, 2025, to January 4, 2026, will feature music, comedy, sports and cultural performances across different parts of the state.
He noted that the events aimed at making December 2025 unforgettable in the minds of Ndi Anambra.”
He also announced that the state government has put in place adequate security to make the event a peaceful, free and fair event.
Below is the full list of events;
December 18: #onwadezemba City Block (Gen Z-focused music and entertainment) — 6pm, Awka City Stadium (by Solution Fun City)
December 20: #onwadezemba Christmas Carol/Cankata — 4pm, Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka
December 25: #onwadezemba Children’s Christmas Festival — 2pm, Solution Fun City
December 27: #onwadezemba Ịgba Mmanwụ Festival — 2pm, Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka
December 28: #onwadezemba Ịgba Mmanwụ Festival — 2pm, Township Stadium, Ekwulobia.
• #onwadezemba Novelty Match — 2pm, Awka Township Stadium
• #onwadezemba Ịgba Mmanwụ Festival — 2pm, Ezechima Primary School, Onitsha
December 30: #onwadezemba Flavour Home Coming (concert by Flavour n’Abanịa) — 5pm, Solution Fun City Awka.
January 3:
• #onwadezemba Walk for Life — 7am, Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka
• #onwadezemba LOL (Laugh Out Loud) Anambra (comedy show) — 5pm, Solution Fun City
January 4: #onwadezemba All-White Old School Night — 6pm, Solution Fun City
“One of the legacy projects of the Soludo’s administration, was commissioned by President Bola Tinubu during a one-day official visit to the state on May 8, 2025.
“The opening ceremony will featured performances by top Nigerian artistes, including Chinedu Okoli, popularly known as Flavour, who is expected to entertained a large audience of dignitaries and residents of Anambra State.
Nigerian Tribune gathered that Flavour was born on November 23, 1983, in Enugu State, Though born and raised in Enugu, his family hails from Umunze in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State. Growing up in a musically inclined household, Flavour was exposed to various styles of music from an early age. However, it was his involvement in the local church that truly ignited his passion.
Entertainment
Edo Assembly Summons 2 Baba’s Wife As Marital Dispute Worsens
The Assembly said she was invited to defend herself over allegations of misconduct leveled against her.
Speaking during plenary, the Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, said Irobosa must explain why her conduct had dragged the name of the Assembly “in the mud.”
He said, “Hon. Natasha Irobosa has been summoned to appear before the Ethics and Privilege Committee of the Assembly due to her recent conduct which has been trending online.
“This conduct drags the name of the House into the mud, and it is the responsibility of members of the Assembly to conduct themselves well.
“This House has cerebral minds and educated people who have been dragged in the mud for too long by our colleague, Hon. Natasha. She has been trending on social media and television for the wrong reason.
“The House has members who know what they are doing, and the attitude of our member has brought this House to disrepute, and we will not tolerate it.”
The Speaker added that the committee would submit its findings to the House within two weeks.
Meanwhile, fans of 2Baba have expressed deep concern over the singer’s marriage following a series of disturbing videos circulating online.
One of the videos on Tuesday captured a heated exchange between the artiste and Natasha during an Instagram Live session on Monday.
The live session, hosted by media personality, Daddy Freeze, featured members of 2Baba’s former management team discussing stalled international projects when the singer suddenly joined the broadcast.
Moments into his appearance, he was heard confronting Natasha, asking, “What is your problem?”
The situation quickly escalated, with Natasha appearing to attempt to seize the phone as both raised their voices before the session abruptly ended.
The incident came shortly after another viral clip showed the singer being handcuffed and escorted away by police officers in the United Kingdom. The footage, shared by blogger Tosin Silverdam, captured officers speaking with 2Baba outside a retail store before leading him away.
The viral clips have triggered widespread anxiety among fans and industry watchers, many of whom fear the singer may be experiencing a deepening personal and marital crisis.
“You go out there to make your money; even if it’s 100,000 people listening, the money is enough to sustain you,” his former manager, Kaka Igbokwe, said.
He added that the team’s long-term plan was to elevate 2Baba to the level of globally respected African music icons.
“When I started working with 2Baba, my aim was for him to be larger. You can’t compare yourself to Burna Boy, but you can achieve what Angélique Kidjo has done. You can still do arenas,” he said.
Amid the unfolding drama, popular content creator Nasboi penned an emotional note expressing sadness over the singer’s current situation.
He said the recent clips were damaging to the calm, humble image 2Baba had maintained for decades.
“I’ve looked up to you since I was 16. I loved every bit of your music, your personality, and the humility you carried yourself with. In fact, you were one of the people who taught me what it means to be humble. You have had your criticism in the past, but your character and humility still stood tall,” he wrote.
Nasboi added that the version of events being shared online was unfamiliar to “those of us who truly love and respect you,” urging the veteran artiste to take control of the situation.
In a separate live session with Daddy Freeze, a female fan tearfully called on Nigerian men to intervene in 2Baba’s marriage.
“All Nigerian men should please come out and help him out of this,” she said.
“It’s so disheartening seeing my Idol like this,” another fan, August Chris, wrote on X.
On his part, @Abraham_Gidi posted, “Honestly, this is a fact. I still find it hard to believe. I love and respect him from childhood, and it has stayed like that forever. Legend forever.”
Another X user, @ariyiB, said in a video posted on Tuesday, “2Baba should have stayed on his own since he left Annie. He already has enough kids. I am not happy with what I am seeing about him on social media.”
The relationship between 2Baba and Natasha became public shortly after the singer announced the end of his 12-year marriage to Annie Macaulay in January. He later unveiled Natasha as his fiancée and proposed to her publicly on the eve of Valentine’s Day, February 14.
The couple went on to hold a private traditional wedding ceremony in July in Abuja.
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