Author: Gabby

Award-winning Nollywood star Bucci Franklin has opened up about his troubled childhood, revealing that the absence of his father drove him to substance abuse. In a heartfelt conversation with media personality Chude Jidenowo, the actor detailed how being raised solely by his mother after his father abandoned them left deep emotional scars.

Franklin described himself as a “complete disaster” during his youth, admitting that he sought solace in drugs to cope with the void left by his father’s departure. “My dad walked out on us, and I was a mess,” he said. “Drugs became my escape.”

However, he credited his mother with helping him overcome his addiction. According to Franklin, her unwavering support and dedication were instrumental in turning his life around. He attributes his personal and professional success entirely to her efforts.

The actor stressed the critical role a father figure plays, especially for boys, and highlighted the immense challenges single parents face. He emphasized that children need both parents for balanced growth, and the lack of a paternal presence can have severe consequences.

In a recent chat on Cool FM Lagos, singer Joeboy opened up about a troubling trend in the Nigerian music scene. Alongside his guest, Wizkid Chan, Joeboy argued that excessive pride and rivalry are increasingly spoiling the spirit of collaboration among artists.

According to Joeboy, some musicians view collaborations as contests rather than opportunities to blend talents. He noted that he personally avoids such situations by working only with artists he shares a close bond with. “It’s much smoother when I team up with someone I’m cool with,” he explained. “That way, ego and hidden competition don’t creep in. When I invite someone for a feature, my goal is for them to shine even brighter than me on that track. That’s the whole point of bringing them in. So I don’t understand the need to compete.”

Wizkid Chan echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how ego often derails the creative process. “My biggest issue with collaborations is pride,” he said. “I never try to control how you record; all I ask is the same respect. But some artists request a feature and then try to dictate how you should perform your own part. That’s not right. Let me do my thing.”

He further stressed that the purpose of a feature is to introduce a fresh perspective to a song, not to turn it into a battle. “I seek out artists specifically because they bring something I can’t. I would never ask them to copy my style. Yet, there are those who, after hearing their collaborator’s verse, go back and rewrite their own just to sound better. That’s not what collaboration is about. It’s not a competition.”

Renowned fashion mogul Veekee James and her spouse have officially stepped into parenthood, announcing the arrival of their firstborn. The news, shared through a series of heartwarming family portraits and a touching caption, has sparked an outpouring of love across social media platforms.

In her announcement, Veekee described the newborn as a divine gift and the start of an exciting journey. The couple expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from their community.

Fans and fellow celebrities quickly flooded the comment sections with congratulations. One Instagram follower remarked, “This is the beautiful life we prayed for. So happy for you, Veekee!” Another fan on TikTok wrote, “The internet’s favorite duo has become parents. It’s truly heartwarming.”

The announcement has become a trending topic, with many celebrating the couple’s transition into family life. The joy is palpable as the fashion icon and her husband embrace their new roles.

In a candid revelation during an appearance on the Crea8torium podcast, renowned Nigerian record producer and Mavin Records founder, Don Jazzy, disclosed that releasing singer Di’ja from his label stands as the most challenging professional choice he has ever made. The music executive, whose real name is Michael Collins Ajereh, described the atmosphere as emotionally charged, noting that Di’ja herself picked up on his distress during the decision’s announcement.

Don Jazzy explained that the situation struck a deep chord because he regards every artist under his banner as family. **“Parting with Di’ja was one of the toughest moves I’ve had to make in my career,”** he confessed. **“It took a heavy emotional toll. I can’t imagine personally telling another artist to leave the label—that responsibility now falls to Tega and Rima if such a need arises. Everyone at Mavin Records is like my own child, so this was brutal for both of us. She could see I was struggling. In fact, she questioned why I had to be the one to deliver the news. The room was filled with tears—it was incredibly hard.”**

Di’ja originally inked a recording contract with Mavin Records on Valentine’s Day in 2014. Over the next four years, she unveiled several singles and an extended play under the imprint. However, in 2023, the singer clarified that she never formally exited the label but instead **“life unfolded unexpectedly,”** leading to her gradual departure from the spotlight.

Nigerian internet personality Linus Williams, popularly known as Blord, has recounted his time at the Kuje Correctional Centre, painting a picture of comfort and organization within the facility. In a recent online interview, Blord opened up about the special treatment he received during his detention, revealing that he was housed in a section reserved for high-profile individuals.

Comparing the correctional center to a National Youth Service Corps orientation camp, Blord noted that the environment was surprisingly pleasant. He stated that the VIP area where he stayed was equipped with various home appliances and offered amenities akin to a vacation retreat. “I could sleep, wake up, and eat without worries. I even had a personal chef,” he shared.

The social media influencer also highlighted the camaraderie among inmates, who welcomed him warmly upon his arrival. They organized football matches and other games to make his stay more enjoyable. In contrast to the experience of Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, Blord suggested that his own detention was markedly more comfortable. According to Blord, the Kuje facility is well-structured, with designated VIP sections that provide a higher standard of living for certain detainees.

Comedian AY, born Ayo Makun, has shared emotional details about the final moments of his close friend and Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo. According to AY, Ekubo passed away with a serene smile on his face, leaving those present in awe.

Ekubo died on May 11, 2026, at a Lagos hospital after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was diagnosed with stage four liver cancer in 2024 and underwent a transplant. However, his liver failed again in 2026, and he succumbed to complications hours after being placed on life support.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, AY wrote about the surreal experience of witnessing Ekubo’s final breath. “Some losses do not feel real no matter how many times you try to process them,” he began, struggling with the reality of Ekubo’s departure. He recalled the laughter, conversations, and brotherhood they shared, emphasizing the deep impact of the loss. “I was there. I saw you still smiling even in death. I saw the tears from friends and family. And honestly, a part of me is still in shock. Rest well my brother,” AY added.

Ekubo’s friend Godwin Nnadiekwe also paid tribute, revealing that Ekubo had prepared his will before his passing. “Alex Ekubo. To think you already prepared your will, it’s a heartbreak I can’t quite describe,” Godwin wrote on his Instagram story.

The actor’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues, with many remembering his positive spirit and contributions to Nollywood.