RMD Urges Men to Stop Hitting Women, Joins Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

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Veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) has added his voice to the campaign against gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria, urging men to take greater responsibility in protecting the rights and dignity of women.

The celebrated actor made the call on Friday in Abuja after emerging as a key stakeholder in the Male Feminists Network, an initiative aimed at encouraging men to actively support gender equality and end violence against women.

Speaking at the event, the 65-year-old actor stressed that women deserve equal opportunities in leadership and decision-making, particularly in government. According to him, women have consistently demonstrated competence and commitment whenever they are entrusted with responsibilities.

Drawing from his experience in the film industry, RMD revealed that about 80 percent of the crew on one of his productions two years ago were women, describing the experience as highly rewarding.

“If you want to have anything done in government, put a woman in charge, and you can sleep with your eyes closed,” he said.

Read Also: I Built My Career by Turning Bad Experiences Into Success – Evan Rama

The actor also appealed to men to stop objectifying women and instead treat them with dignity and respect. He emphasized that disagreements should never result in violence, insisting that communication remains a better way to resolve conflicts than physical abuse.

According to him, ending gender-based violence is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of men, adding that women should not be left alone to fight for their rights.

RMD further noted that discrimination against women is often embedded in institutions and society, making it necessary for men to join organizations advocating for gender equality and the protection of women’s rights.

Also speaking at the event, public affairs analyst and gender advocate Dr. Otive Igbuzor said influential traditional rulers, religious leaders and respected public figures have an important role to play in changing harmful social attitudes and preventing gender-based violence across the country.

I Built My Career by Turning Bad Experiences Into Success – Evan Rama

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Stand up comic Evan Rama said he built his career by turning his negative experiences into bits, podcasts and viral clips that have earned him a loyal following that sees him as both the funniest guy in the room and the most honest.

Rama, who is known for his self-deprecating humour, told journalists recently on his journey that he first broke out doing stand-up sets that turned everyday awkward moments into relatable comedy gold.

“When I talk about bad first dates, overthinking texts or the pressure of ‘adulting,’ crowds relate to it because it’s real,” he said.

For me comedy is just therapy with an audience. “If I’m embarrassed by it, then it’s probably funny,” he said.

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He said he brought this honesty into his dating life as well as over the last few years he has been open about the ups and downs of modern dating, the ghosting, the app fatigue, the well-meaning friends setting you up “with someone perfect.”

He said he likes making people laugh, and now he’s giving audiences a peek into the struggles of finding love in the spotlight.

Fans watched him deal with heartbreak on stage, and then later celebrate new love with the same candor, he said. He’s talked about learning to date with intention, about setting boundaries, about how comedy actually helped him heal.

“Making people laugh about my mess-ups made me less afraid of them. “Dating stopped feeling like an audition and more like two people just figuring it out,” he said.

Rama said he’s touring, making new material and leaning into a version of comedy that’s less about punching for the sake of it and more about connection.

His sets now blend jokes about relationships with reflections on growth, friendship, and what it means to be your own person before you’re someone’s partner.

Evan said he has been able to prove you don’t have to choose between being the comedian and being human as you can be both with a growing audience and a reputation for being funny and sincere.

Whitemoney Reveals Why Nigeria’s Dating Culture Is Delaying His Marriage Plans

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Former Big Brother Naija winner Hazel Oyeze Onou, popularly known as Whitemoney, has opened up about his struggles with finding a life partner, blaming Nigeria’s modern dating culture for his continued single status.

The reality TV star, who revealed that he is now 35 years old, admitted that he is becoming increasingly concerned about not being married. According to him, while he is ready to settle down and start a family, finding the right woman has proven to be a difficult task.

Speaking in a video shared on his social media page, Whitemoney lamented what he described as the growing financial expectations in many relationships, particularly in Lagos. He claimed that many women prioritize receiving money and expensive gifts over building meaningful, long-term partnerships.

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“I can’t even lie, I’m getting old. I need a wife,” he said. “The dating culture in Nigeria is something else. Where do they find good women?”

The singer and entrepreneur further expressed disappointment that conversations about building a future together are often overshadowed by demands for financial support early in relationships.

Whitemoney said he remains optimistic about marriage but believes it has become increasingly challenging to find a genuine partner who values love, commitment, and shared goals over material expectations. He added that he is willing to settle down once he meets the right woman who is ready to grow with him.

Falz Slams ‘Emi Lọkan’ Slogan, Questions Government’s Priorities

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Nigerian rapper, actor, and activist Falz has stirred fresh political conversations after strongly criticising the Federal Government’s priorities, questioning its spending decisions, and describing the popular “Emi Lọkan” campaign slogan as one of the most absurd political messages he has ever heard.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, the award-winning entertainer expressed concern over the country’s worsening economic conditions and persistent insecurity, arguing that government resources should be directed toward addressing the challenges affecting millions of Nigerians rather than funding luxury purchases.

Falz questioned the rationale behind recent government expenditures on high-end assets, including vehicles and aircraft, at a time when many citizens are struggling with inflation, unemployment, and security threats.

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“If you look at what has been spent on acquiring new vehicles, acquiring jets and all these things, and compare it with what has actually been done about insecurity and the challenges we are facing, you have to ask: what are the government’s priorities?” he said.

The rapper also criticised what he described as the increasing focus on establishing foundations and similar initiatives, insisting that such measures do not address the root causes of Nigeria’s problems.

“Is that the solution to our problems? More foundations? It’s absurd,” he stated.

Falz further reacted to recent comments by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, who said the government was under immense pressure and encouraged young Nigerians to play a more active role in nation-building.

Responding to the statement, the entertainer argued that those who seek public office do so voluntarily and should be prepared for the responsibilities and expectations that come with leadership.

“What do you mean pressure on the government? Did anyone beg you to take up this role?” he asked.

The outspoken rapper reserved his strongest criticism for the “Emi Lọkan” slogan, a Yoruba phrase meaning “It is my turn,” which became widely associated with President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 presidential campaign.

According to Falz, the slogan reflects a mindset that prioritises personal ambition over public service.

“Do you know what that translates to in English? It is my turn. I’ve never seen anything more absurd than that in my entire life,” he said.

He argued that a politician who campaigns on the basis of it being “their turn” should not later complain about the pressure that comes with governing.

“That means from day one that you set out on your political journey, this is the day you have been waiting for. So, what can you come and say, ‘the pressure is too much’? Are you okay?” he added.

Falz’s comments have since generated widespread reactions across social media. While many Nigerians praised him for speaking candidly about governance and accountability, others criticised his remarks, describing them as politically motivated. The interview has further fuelled discussions about leadership, public spending, and the expectations placed on elected officials in Nigeria.

Akon Explains Why He Chose Wizkid Over Drake in 2008

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Senegalese-American singer and music executive Akon has revealed why he signed Nigerian superstar Wizkid in 2008 instead of Canadian rapper Drake, saying financial considerations influenced his decision.

Speaking in a recent interview with The Shade Room, Akon disclosed that Drake was still an up-and-coming artist at the time and had not yet developed the signature sound that would later make him a global music icon. According to him, Drake requested a hefty $1 million signing fee, making the deal financially unrealistic.

Instead, Akon chose to work with Wizkid through Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), believing the Nigerian singer had immense potential and could be developed into an international star.

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Akon credited Banky W with discovering and nurturing Wizkid’s talent before introducing him to the label.

“Banky W discovered Wizkid. That’s how the collaboration happened. I travelled to Nigeria, and Banky brought Wiz to me. The moment I saw him, I knew he was a star,” Akon said.

He added that EME had limited resources at the time, but his partnership with Wizkid helped open doors for the singer in the United States, playing a significant role in expanding his international career and global recognition.

IK Ogbonna Opens Up About Final Conversation With Alexx Ekubo

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For the first time, Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has discussed the devastating loss of Alexx Ekubo, a longtime friend and coworker.

Recall that Alexx lost his fight with kidney cancer on May 11 and was buried in his hometown of Arochukwu, Abia State.

In a statement on his Instagram page, IK reflected on the tragedy and stated that his perspective on life and grief has evolved over the previous several months.

Many individuals live as though there would always be another birthday, Christmas, trip, chat, or chance to say, “I’ll see you next week,” according to the movie star. However, the reality is… It is a privilege to have tomorrow. Not a pledge

IK also thought back to the times he spent with Alexx and the topics they talked about, such as businesses, movies, and trip places, but God had other ideas.

“I lost my best friend and brother, Alexx, on May 11th,” the message stated. There is nothing that can prepare you for such a loss.

“I’ve been attempting to comprehend life for the last two months. attempting to comprehend loss. attempting to comprehend God. attempting to comprehend how someone so vibrant could all of a sudden become a memory.

“I still don’t know everything. Actually, I don’t believe anyone does. I had never really asked myself these questions before, but losing Alexx made me do so. Why do we lead the lives that we do? Why do we pursue future as if it had made a deal with us? Why do we put off falling in love? Why do we put off forgiving others? Why do we put off making phone calls?

Why do we think there will always be another birthday? One more Christmas. One more journey. One more discussion. One more “I’ll see you next week” The reality is… It is a privilege to have tomorrow. Not a pledge. This moment is all we really have. Then another day arrives. Another evening passes. Until one day… Our night ends up being our last.

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“I talked to Alexx about everything. We chuckled about becoming older. We had business-related dreams. We wanted to make movies. destinations we desired to see.
The lives we envisioned for our offspring. Achievement. legacy. family. We genuinely thought we had time. We didn’t think either of us would depart first. Life had other ideas. Or maybe… God’s plan was different.

“Even though it hurts… I’ve found serenity in the knowledge that God is wiser than I am. My heart continues to ask questions that my head is unable to respond to. However, faith serves as a reminder that not all answers are intended to be comprehended here on Earth.
The fact that you actually existed brings me the most solace. You weren’t just there. You were in love. You donated. You let out a big laugh. You appeared. People were carried by you. You had faith in others.

Sometimes I still go for my phone out of habit because I want to give you a call. There are times when I think, “Alexx has to hear this,” after hearing something amusing. Then I’m quietly reminded of reality. I am unable to. And that suffering never really goes away. You acquire a new way of carrying it.

“Alexx… My brother… I’m grateful. For each discussion. Each and every correction. Every chuckle. Every argument that strengthened us. I appreciate your faith in me. I appreciate you having enough faith in me to refer to me as your brother. It continues to rank among my life’s greatest honors. Rest well, dear brother, till we cross paths again. I adore you.

Yoruba Actress Apinke Ogundimu Appeals for Help as She Battles Cervical Cancer

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Veteran Yoruba actress Apinke Ogundimu has made an emotional appeal to Nigerians for financial and moral support as she continues her battle with cervical cancer.

Speaking during an interview with actress and media personality Biola Bayo, Ogundimu revealed that she was diagnosed with cervical cancer after undergoing medical tests. The actress described the condition as extremely painful, saying the illness has taken a heavy toll on her physical and emotional well-being.

Fighting back tears, she questioned why she had been struck by the disease despite living what she described as a peaceful and trouble-free life. According to her, the constant pain has become overwhelming, leaving her with no choice but to publicly seek assistance.

Ogundimu disclosed that she has received help from kind-hearted individuals in the past, but the financial burden of her treatment continues to grow. She explained that her children have sacrificed their own needs and have been spending nearly all of their earnings on her medical care, putting their personal lives and responsibilities on hold.

Expressing gratitude for their unwavering support, the actress said she could no longer remain silent because of the severity of her condition.

“The pain is too severe. I did the necessary tests, and I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I keep asking myself why this happened to me because I am an easy-going person. My children have been spending everything they earn on my treatment, neglecting their own needs. I thank God for blessing me with such caring children, but I need help,” she said.

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She appealed directly to Nigerians, asking for compassion and support as she continues her fight against the disease.

“I want to be well. I want to be healed. I don’t pray for even my enemies to experience cancer because the pain is unbearable. Please have mercy on me. Please help me. I have nobody,” she pleaded.

Ogundimu’s appeal comes amid growing concern over the health challenges facing several veterans in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. In recent days, actress Destiny Etiko also called on Nigerians to support fellow actress Cynthia Nkachukwu Anijekwu, who is battling cancer.

Cynthia revealed that despite undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, the disease returned, forcing her to undergo additional treatment, including radiation therapy and another surgery. Her family reportedly struggled to meet the rising medical costs.

Following Destiny Etiko’s public appeal, Nigerians reportedly donated ₦13.1 million out of the ₦20 million needed for Cynthia’s treatment within a few hours, demonstrating the willingness of many citizens to support entertainers facing life-threatening health conditions.

Apinke Ogundimu now hopes a similar show of kindness will give her another chance to recover and return to the screen.

Davido Reveals Why He Spends ₦400 Million Every Month

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Award-winning Afrobeats star, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido has revealed that to maintain his lifestyle as one of Africa’s biggest music exports, huge financial commitments are required. Davido said that he spends between ₦300 million and ₦400 million every month.

“It is not just a matter of personal luxury for me to maintain my celebrity status. My monthly expenses do not include my wife, Chioma Adeleke and other members of my household,” the singer said.

Davido made the revelation on a recent livestream with content creator Davrel, giving fans a rare glimpse into the financial realities of life at the top of the entertainment industry.
The Grammy-nominated artiste said that he spends an average of $200,000 to $300,000 per month which is about ₦300 million to ₦400 million due to the demands of his global career and image.

“I spend between $200,000 and $300,000 every month and that doesn’t even include my wife’s expenses or the rest of my household,” Davido said.

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The figure does not include big lifestyle purchases such as luxury cars and expensive jewellery, so his real spend could be much higher in months when he makes such purchases, the singer said.

“It does not include the expenses for the purchase of luxury cars and jewellery too,” he added.

Davido’s comments give an insight into the financial obligations that come with being an international music star, from supporting a large team and travelling across continents to the demands of a globally-recognised brand.

Davido is one of Nigeria’s most successful entertainers. He has headlined sold-out concerts across the world, won international endorsement deals and has been among the highest paid musicians in Africa for the past decade.

His latest comments have since triggered conversations on social media with a number of fans responding to the scale of his monthly spend and the realities of keeping up life as a global celebrity.

Funke Akindele Reveals How Tyler Perry Inspired Her Journey To Becoming A Top Filmmaker

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Award-winning Nollywood actress, producer, and filmmaker Funke Akindele has opened up about her inspiring journey in the Nigerian film industry, revealing that she taught herself the art of filmmaking by watching movies and studying the works of renowned Hollywood filmmaker Tyler Perry.

In a recent interview with BellaNaija, the box office record-holder reflected on her humble beginnings, describing herself as a young and inexperienced storyteller who was determined to create meaningful and entertaining films despite having no formal training in film production.

Akindele explained that she never attended a film school to learn directing, screenwriting, or production. Instead, she developed her skills through self-learning, observing movie sets, and gaining practical experience in the Yoruba movie industry.

Looking back on the early days of her career, particularly during the production of the popular Jenifa series, the actress said she was simply focused on telling authentic stories that audiences could connect with.

“I was young, inexperienced and self-taught when it came to film production,” she recalled, noting that passion and determination kept her moving forward despite the challenges she faced.

The celebrated filmmaker disclosed that Tyler Perry played a significant role in shaping her creative approach. According to her, watching his films and television series helped her understand storytelling, scriptwriting, and film production techniques.

“I didn’t go to school to study film. I just watched films. I actually learnt to write from watching Tyler Perry movies and series. That’s my role model. I really love him so much. I can’t wait to meet him and work with him,” she said.

Read Also: Uche Ogbodo Says She’s Receiving Over 100 DMs Daily After Announcing Split From Bobby Maris

Akindele noted that her continued success is rooted in her willingness to keep learning and adapting to the ever-changing entertainment industry. She stressed that she constantly challenges herself to improve rather than becoming satisfied with past achievements.

She explained that reinvention has been one of the key factors behind her longevity in Nollywood, encouraging aspiring creatives never to become complacent.

The actress also highlighted the importance of teamwork, humility, and collaboration in her career. Rather than believing she has mastered every aspect of filmmaking, she regularly works with other professionals to improve the quality of her productions.

“I keep collaborating with professionals in the film industry. I don’t believe I know it all. That has helped me over the years. I’m not perfect,” she added.

Akindele’s story has resonated with fans and aspiring filmmakers, many of whom have praised her dedication, resilience, and commitment to lifelong learning. Her journey from a self-taught actress to one of Nollywood’s most successful filmmakers continues to inspire a new generation of creatives across Africa.

Uche Ogbodo Says She’s Receiving Over 100 DMs Daily After Announcing Split From Bobby Maris

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Nollywood actress Uche Ogbodo has revealed that her social media inbox has been flooded with messages from admirers following the announcement of her separation from her estranged husband, Bobby Maris.

Taking to her Instagram Story, the actress shared her surprise at the overwhelming attention she has received from men since news of her marriage breakdown became public. According to Ogbodo, she now receives more than 100 direct messages every day, with many people expressing interest in getting to know her.

Reacting to the unexpected influx of messages, the actress appealed to those reaching out to give her some space as she is not yet ready to begin another relationship.

“100 DMs a day is too much for me. Please, you all should chill. I’m not searching yet. Let me breathe first. It’s like all these men have been looking for a way to get to me because what in heaven is going on in my DM?” she wrote.

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The mother of two admitted that she never imagined her inbox would become so busy simply because she disclosed her marital challenges. She jokingly suggested that it seemed as though many men had been waiting for an opportunity to approach her.

Ogbodo recently confirmed that her marriage to Bobby Maris had ended after years together. Explaining her decision, the actress said she became exhausted by the relationship, claiming her estranged husband behaved “like a princess” despite their years as a couple. Her remarks quickly sparked conversations across social media, with fans and followers expressing mixed opinions about the split.

Since then, the actress has remained active online, sharing updates about her personal life while asking supporters to respect her privacy as she adjusts to the new chapter.

Her latest revelation about receiving hundreds of messages has generated fresh reactions from fans, with many finding the situation amusing, while others encouraged her to take time to heal before considering another relationship.