Interview With Wizkid: I Didn’t Steal Pakurumo

In a recent interview Ayodeji Balogun  popularly dubbed Wizkid shared light about himself, his music and commented on the accusation made against him by an undergraduate who claims he stole the song Pakurumo from her. Excerpts

YOU are like the new kid in the block now. How does that make you feel?

(Laughs) I give God all the glory. It has not been easy, but I want to thank God that my work is being appreciated and has been bought by my fans within and outside of the country.

How did you manage to achieve so much within a short period of time?

My drive and focus for turning my life experiences into incredible music did it for me. It all started in 2010, when I released my first singles, Holla at your Boy, Gidi Girl and Ori Mi with label mate, Skales. Then there was my hit song, Tease Me which was just a studio freestyle that got leaked online and turned into a big hit in different parts of Nigeria. I will say it is the grace of God coupled with hard work.

Let’s talk about your performance at the finale of BBA Amplified. Were you surprised at the recognition you got, when you came on stage?

Yeah yeah, I was surprise. But I was also happy that I had that recognition there too. I was told that my song Holla at your Boy is very popular and is being played regularly on their national radio. For me, that is kind of big. I feel so blessed that I have been able to break across Nigeria. With this, who knows, I could get a Grammy.

Were you serious when you said you will be quitting school because you cannot combine it with music?

I am sorry, it was a misconception. I did not say I will be quitting school, because I can never do such a thing. My parent would never allow that. What I did is to take a year break from school, for my tour. Once I am done with that, I will be going back to complete my studies.

How long is the tour expected to take?

It is just for a year. I will be taking a transfer to study Music Business outside Nigeria to gather experience and to know more about music too.

What would you say attracted Banky W to you?

Well, it was funny how we met. It was not like anybody introduced me to him. He knew about me and I about him, because he is Banky W. We went for a show one time and he invited us for an after party at his place. You know we were there for about an hour and he didn’t know that I was Wizkid.

When people were greeting me and he was like, are you Wizkid? And I was like yes, and he said he has been looking for me for months. We talked and he offered me a better deal which I went for.

Holla at your Boy made you popular. What were you doing before that?

The thing is I have always been doing music. Like every normal kid, I was in school doing my thing. By that, I mean I was recording songs and going to the studio to try and improve on my music. I also did some collaboration with the likes of Banky W, Jesse Jagz, Kel MI, and some other big names before Holla at your Boy.

You claim not to indulge in drugs, how then did the story of you carrying drugs come about?

That is not the first negative story about me and it definitely will not be the last. One thing I have learned about being a celebrity is that you get to get rumours about you everyday. And because you cannot go to people to explain to them what you are doing, it is only proper to give room for that.

Don’t you think it can affect your career?

Well, it is just rumours like I said. Sometimes bad publicity is good publicity as well. That way, more people get to know you. I don’t do drugs and my people know me and what I can do. Did you hear that I have been to Scotland before? I have never been there.

A 300L English Language student of Adekunle Ajasin University Ado Ekiti claims that you stole her song titled Pakurumo. How true is that?

(Laughs) What is the name of the school again? I saw the story on the internet. I have never been there and I don’t even know the girl they are talking about. I have never been to Ado Ekiti before.

It is funny, that is why I said earlier, that they keep coming. I go to sleep and wake up in rumours everyday. Nothing like that ever happened. I am sure that somebody just sits down and cooks up that too. It is funny; I don’t even know what to say.

So how did you come about Pakurumo?

Pakurumo is a word that I have been hearing since I was young so I decided to make a song with the term.

So who is the lucky lady?

Right now I am very single, but liking someone at the moment.

Is Wizkid still with his parents?

No! Wizkid lives with his label boss, Banky W and label mate, Skales for now, but visits his parents at least twice a week.

So far, how many awards do you have to your credit?

So far, I have received the Promising Artiste of the Year, Dynamix All Youth Awards 2010 and the Best New Artiste City People Awards 2011. I have also been nominated for Promising Artiste of the Year, Dynamix All Youth Awards 2009,Song of the Year; Dynamix All Youth Awards 2010, Best Pop Single for Holla at your boy”; The Headies 2011, Next Rated; The Headies 2011, and MTV Base Brand New Artiste of the Month (January 2011).

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‘I WAS TOUCHED BY MIRROR BOY’ – GENEVIEVE NNAJI

Actress Genevieve Nnaji has enumerated the UK, Ghana and Nigerian success of her recent movie, Mirror Boy, as a justification for her participation.

Speaking through the movie publicist, BigSam Media, the actress reveals that she was fascinated by the simplicity of the story of Mirror Boy and the determination of the producer and director, Obi Emelonye to do something ‘special’.

“I was impressed with the way the writer spinned a whole lot around a simple story of mother and child and a spirit. It is told in such a way that you feel the three distinct characters. You feel the pain of a mother whose child is missing, you feel the trouble of an African boy born in the U.K now in search of an identity, and you feel the emotion of a reincarnated father who doesn’t want his biological child lost in the world of ‘missed identity’. It is the kind of story that touches you from the screen so I am not surprised at the success so far at the cinema’, she explained.

Mirror Boy which has been at Nigerian cinemas for four weeks running is said to have grossed over N15 million, allegedly setting the enviable record of being the highest selling Nollywood movie in Ghana and the longest running movie by any African in UK cinema. The movie which was shot in Gambia features Genevieve Nnaji, Osita Iheme and a Gambian upcoming star Edward Kagutuzi.

The Mirror Boy is an enthralling journey as seen through the eyes of a London- born 12 year old African boy, Tijani. After a London street fight on 13th of June, in which a local boy is hurt, Tijan’s mother decides to take him back their roots in Gambia.

On their arrival in Banjul, Tijan encounters a strange apparition – a boy smiling at him in a mirror and then vanishing. Seeing the same boy in a crowded street market the next day sets in motion a chain of events, with Tijan finding himself lost. While Tijan’s panic-stricken mother struggles to find her son, Tijan is left alone in the company of the enigmatic Mirror Boy, seemingly visible to him only. A cathartic climax helps TIJANI to unravel the mystery of the MIRROR BOY. It also provides him with a rather mystical explanation for the way his life has cascaded from the 13th of June towards this inter-twined fate with a father he has never met.

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T.I. Released From Prison, Sent to Halfway House

T.I. was released from prison early this morning and is on his way to a halfway house to serve out the rest of his 11-month sentence for probation violation. Federal Bureau of Prisons spokesman Chris Burke said that T.I. was released from Forrest City Correctional Facility in Arkansas at 7:29 a.m. and is on his way to a community living facility....

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Music Producer K Solo buys N36m property in Lagos

The talented producer, who has produced beats for Paul Play, Kefee, Sunny Neji and many more A-list Nigerian artists, is reaping the fruits of his labour. Sources say he just acquired N36million property in Agege, Lagos, and he confirmed the acquisition when approached by encomium magazine reporter, Shade Wesley-Metibogun. He tells her

Yes it's true. The house is in an estate in Agege. It is worth that amount. I just got it and I am working on it now. I have not finished payment on the property, I still have a few millions to pay. 

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MIkel Obi Visits President Jonathan to say thank you (photos inside)

Super Eagles and Chelsea player, Mikel Obi, visited President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House on Monday August 29th to thank him for the way the Nigerian police responded and helped rescue his father when he was kidnapped.

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Ghanaian Actress Jackie Appiah caught red-handed with popular radio presenter

Ace versatile Ghanaian broadcaster Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey popularly known as Abeiku Santana has been caught in an uncompromising position with award winning actress, Jackie Appiah in the back seat of a Toyota SUV.

Abeiku was caught half naked on screen with his pants dropped low leaving his white underwear whiles the lady who had also opened her legs wide, laid on her back as Abeiku’s firm waist kept see-sawing with his sex partner groaning and edging him on to keep up the good work.

“Wow mmmmm aaoo! Give it to me… I hear you are good, wow.” After several minutes of hot bouts of ‘sex’, the lady alighted from the car to put on her underwear and it turned out to be screen goddess Jackie Appiah, spotted in a shiny cream straight dress.

The above is a controversial scene from a new movie titled “Death After Birth” produced by Roger Q Production. Jackie Appiah plays the role of a prostitute and Abeiku Santana happens to be her customer. After five rounds of sex as proclaimed by Jackie in the movie, Abeiku refused to pay and threatened Jackie with a gun.

After news broke out that the radio presenter had bonked Jackie in a movie, speculations were rife that Abeiku had actually made out with Jackie under the guise of film-acting and that there was a sizzling romance going on between the two who are both married. Though they have both denied the allegations claiming it was all a make believe, some people think there is more to it.

‘Death After Birth’ is an emotional story of tragedy, pain and sorrow. It touches on some of the silent ordeals women and young girls go through in their journey through life. A pretty little girl, Zynell (Jackie Appiah) is born into the world by ill-fated circumstance. The brutality, hatred and sexual assault were more than she could bear. To help write a book in memory of such a sour experience in life, she invites to the prison where she was sentenced to death by hanging, Father Damian whom she unravels the episodes of the story of her Death after Birth. Life presents every human being with two paramount things; `Birth and Death`, but it becomes more thought provoking when death is obvious after birth.

The movie features a long list of both old and new stars including: Veteran Ernest Abbeyquaye, Fred Nii Amugi, Doris Sackitey, William Addo (aka Akpatse), Kalsoum Sinare, Amanobea Dodoo, Ekow Blankson, Vivienne Achor, Jackie Appiah, Roselyn Ngissah, Selasie Ibrahim, Eddie Watson, Zynnel Lydia Zuh,Timothy Bentum, and a juvenile Star, Ekuba Morkeh, Introducing Abeiku Santana of Okay FM.

The movie is Produced by Roger Quartey and directed by Pascal Amanfo and is scheduled to be premiered at the Silverbird Cinemas, Accra Ghana on Friday September 2, 2011.

Watch “Death After Death” Trailer below:

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STEPHANIE OKEREKE TURNS KANEKALON BRAND AMBASSADOR

Nollywood star Stephanie Okereke has signed an endorsement deal with Kaneka Corporation of Japan – makers of hair fibre Kanekalon, as brand ambassador in Nigeria.

According to the hair fibre company, ‘the endorsement will see the award winning actress promoting the company’s product and participating in the marketing campaigns which include Kanekalon’s brand building campaign, Kanekalon ‘Salon Storm’ Activation, Kanekalon ‘Night of a Thousand Braids’ event and other brand promotional activities’.

The company also announced that Okereke will be the major face of Kanekalon in Nigeria and will pay customary visits to a select number of beauty salons where she will be educating consumers and hairstylists.

‘In line with Kaneka Corporation’s corporate philosophy and strategic direction to promote the beauty of the African woman through the provision of high quality hair products, Kaneka desires to play a more prominent role in the economy by investing more in the Nigerian market’, Hideaki Nakamura, Manager Marketing, Kanekalon spoke about the endorsement deal.

‘The African woman is legendary for her beauty and her strength, her style and grace; she is an epitome of beauty, and unmatched quality and a style icon. All this I hope to promote as Kanekalon ambassador’, Stephanie Okereke commented on her new role.

Stephanie Okereke came into the Nollywood scene in 1997. After graduating from the University of Calabar, she moved into Nollywood full-time. Earlier in the year, Okereke starred alongside Oscar winner and Hollywood A-list star Meryl Streep in the on-stage play ‘Seven’.

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KANYE WEST CONFIRMS D’BANJ SIGNING WITH G.O.O.D MUSIC CHAIN (Video inside)

It was more than a performance when G.O.O.D Music boss, Kanye West, rocked the Mo’Hits stage in London last night treating guests to the ultimate surprise appearance. Yeezy (as he’s also called) again announced to the London fans, his signing of the Nigerian pop star D’banj, sealing the confirmation with the presentation of his G.O.O.D Music chain to the Nigerian pop star.

Fresh from the MTV VMAs which took place about 12 hours earlier, Kanye who can be seen (check picture above) wearing the same clothes at the two events, flew in straight from California (where the VMAs was held) to London to join his latest signees – the Mo’Hits crew, on stage.

D’banj had brought on Kanye with a harmonica version of the US rapper’s popular song ‘All of the lights’. Kanye came on and the Mo’Hits crew rendered assists in performing the song. Soon afterwards, Kanye said ‘I don’t know if y’all heard or not, but D’banj is a new artist on G.O.O.D. Music‘. That said, he took off the chain hanging around  his neck and wore it on D’banj’s. The Koko Master then bowed and hugged his boss.

D’banj and the Mo’Hits crew were signed to G.O.O.D Music in June 2010.

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KANYE WEST STEPS OUT AT MO’HITS KOKO KONCERT (Photos inside)

Fans who came out to watch the Mo’Hits crew perform at the much talked about Koko Koncert which took place at the  Hammersmith HMV Apollo, London last night Monday, August 29, 2011 were surprised to see US Rapper Kanye West appear on stage!

Kanye who had performed alongside Jay Z at the MTV VMAs in California less 24 hrs before the gig flew into London to join Don Jazzy, D’banj, Dr. SID, Wande Coal, K-Switch and guest performer, R&B singer Tiwa Savage at the concert. This came as a big surprise to everyone as the multiple Grammy Award winner’s name was never on the flyer not was he earlier announced to perform.

Those who attended the concert expressed their joy and delight via social networks especially Twitter, and even Don Jazzy and D’banj did too! The renowned producer tweeted through his @DonJazzy handle ‘ME I DONT EVEN KNOW HOW 2 THANK Y’ALL 2day. MY luv 4 ALL OF U cn NEVERRRRRRRR DIEEEEEEE. U GUYS MADE THE SHOW 1 OF THE BEST. GOD BLESS. IDJA‘.

‘@KANYEWEST UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU WE WILL TALK LATER. U RE DEFINITELY THE BEST CELEBRITY I WILL EVER KNOW. GOD BLESS YOU (call it famzing)‘, he continued.

D’banj followed suit with his own appreciation for the G.O.O.D Music boss ‘BOSS I THANK YOU FOR MAKING IT DOWN EVEN WITH YOUR TIGHT SCHEDULE U FLEW IN JUST FOR US. U RE THE BEST EVER @kanyewest . GOD BLESS U’, @iamdbanj tweeted.

D’banj is expected to release his 4th solo album under the Mo’Hits/G.O.O.D Music imprint later this year.

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T.I. To Be Released Wednesday, Sources Say Tip will head to a halfway house one month before his 11-month parole-violation sentence is up.

T.I. is going to be a free man in just a couple of days. Sources have confirmed that the Atlanta rapper, currently serving an 11-month sentence in Forrest City Correctional Facility in Georgia for a parole violation after an L.A. drug arrest, will be released to a halfway house on August 31. Tip will be walking out of jail about a month early, with his original release date listed as September 29 in public records.

The Grand Hustle honcho, born Clifford Harris, Jr., should be ready to get back to the business of making music soon after his release.

T.I.'s Smash company partner, producer La Mar "Mars" Edwards, is eager to reunite with Tip in the studio. "He let me know, 'I got your back and stay close to me, you're my brother,' " said Mars, who just produced Game's The R.E.D. Album. "Ever since then, he's really treated me like a little brother. He'll call me to talk about life. It's more to it than me being his production partner and having Smash Factory."

And T.I.'s friend and collaborator DJ Drama also recently revealed that T.I. is working on a book. "8/31 -- #kingback. @Tip," Drama tweeted on Monday (August 29).

While serving his sentence, the King has been keeping fans updated via his TrapMuzik.com website. In his latest entry, the "Live Your Life" rapper revealed that it would be his final blog post since he expected to be released in September.

In that message, T.I. revealed that he planned to have his new music hearken back to material from his earlier days. "Next time you hear from me, I'll be back out there with you," he wrote. "Doing for those who can't do for themselves and speaking for those whose voices are never heard. When I touch down, I'm going all the way back to square one, like I'm fresh in the game and never sold a record. Back on some I'M SERIOUS, TRAP MUZIK sh--. ... But until then RESPECT to all who deserve it."

The well-wishes he received from family, friends and fans inspired T.I. to sponsor a Memorial Day bus trip that brought the families of 14 inmates up for a visit who otherwise would not be able to.

Although authorities in Los Angeles eventually dropped the drug charges against T.I., he was still found guilt of violating the parole terms stemming from his 2007 felony weapons charge.

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Onyeka Onwenu, Yinka Davies, Others Selected As Christy Essien’s Five Divas

As reported earlier, talks on who and who to be selected as part of the ‘five divas’ to perform at the Red Carpet Tribute Night for the late Lady of Songs, Christy Essien-Igbokwe, Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET) can now confirm the list is finally ready.

According to the memorial committee, ace vocalist Onyeka Onwenu, singers Stella Monye, Yinka Davies, comedian Princess, actress Stella Damasus and the 2010 edition winner of the MTN Project Fame, Chidinma, have been selected. According to the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) boss, Tony Okoroji, these stars mark the five generations that make up Christy Essien’s 50 years spent in music, breaking down the five generations up as; The Trail Blazers, The Successors, The Inheritors, The Fire Generation and The Prospect Generation, from the first to the fifth.

In a statement released on Thursday, August 25, 2011, Okoroji disclosed that Onyeka Onwenu will represent The Trail Blaizers and The Successors will be represented by Stella Monye. Yinka Davies and Stella Damasus will represent The Fire Generation and The Prospect Generation respectively while Chidinma will represent the The Prospect Generation.

According to organizers, the Red Carpet Tribute Night has been scheduled for September 6, 2011 at the Nite Shift Colisuem on Salvation Road in Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos.

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Solange Knowles Slams Police As Beyonce Announces Pregnancy

While the MTV Video Music Awards was going in California last night, Sunday, August 28, 2011 where Beyonce happily announced that she was pregnant, US soul singer and younger sister to the B, Solange Knowles who was in Miami, wasn’t feeling so good about the situation she found herself as she took to the internet to slam local Miami police for ‘pulling a weapon’ on her allegedly, for no reason.

Solange, a mother of one, took to micro–blogging site Twitter to slam the Police ‘A police officer just pulled a weapon on me…. I have done NOTHING illegal, against the law, or anything of the sort’ – @solangeknowles tweeted.

Knowles says that the officer’s approach was ‘unwarranted and discriminating’.

‘I am simply tired of police using arrogance, ego and authority as an offense. I’m only tweeting this to raise awareness. I could have left quietly, but I am sick and tired of this scenario being played over and over again’, she continued.

It is still unclear which part of Miami Solange was as at the time she was when the officer used a ‘weapon’ against her.

Solange 25, is currently working on her yet-to-be titled third album scheduled release later on this year.

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Actor Desmond Elliot and family escape fire outbreak

Actor Desmond Elliot and his family narrowly escaped a fire outbreak that started in the early hours of Saturday August 26th at his Ajah residence in Lagos, Nigeria. And in tune with keeping his fans updated about the situation and their current condition, he tweeted the following message:

Thank God wit me- my family delivered frm fire outbreak ..he’s stil God.

Been putting out fire since 3am

It surely comes as good news that Desmond escaped the outbreak considering the spate of unfortunate incidence that have occurred in recent times including vehicular accidents to both Uche Jumbo and Adaora Ukoh.

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Katy Perry Leads Winners At MTV Video Music Awards 2011

The 2011 edition of the MTV Video Music Awards went down last night Saturday, August 29, 2011. An the big winners of the night were pop singing sensation Katy Perry who bagged three awards for ‘Best Collaboration‘, ‘Best Special Effects‘ and ‘Video of the Year‘.

Other multiple winners of the night were Pop star Lady Gaga and UK alternative singer Adele who clinched two awards each.

US pop singer Britney Spears honored with a ‘Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award‘ while Bruno Mars and Russell Brand paid a tribute to the late Amy Winehouse with a spectacular performance. Other performances of the night came from Lady Gaga, Jay Z and Kanye West, Beyonce, Chris Brown, Adele, Neyo and Pitbull, and others.

Check out the full list of winners and pictures below…

WINNERS

Pop Music Video: Britney Spears, ‘Till the World Ends.’

Rock video: Foo Fighters, ‘Walk.’

Hip-hop video: Nicki Minaj, ‘Super Bass.’

Collaboration: Katy Perry featuring Kanye West, ‘E.T.’

Male video: Justin Bieber, ‘U Smile.’

Female video: Lady Gaga, ‘Born This Way.’

Video with a message: Lady Gaga, ‘Born This Way‘

Choreography: Beyonce, ‘Run the World (Girls)‘

Editing: Adele, ‘Rolling in the Deep‘

Special effects: Katy Perry featuring Kanye West, ‘E.T.‘

Cinematography: Adele, ‘Rolling in the Deep‘

Art direction: Adele, ‘Rolling in the Deep‘

Direction: Adele, ‘Rolling in the Deep‘

Best new artist: Tyler The Creator, ‘Yonkers‘

Video of the year: Katy Perry, ‘Firework‘

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BEYONCE REVEALS PREGNANCY AT MTV VMAS

Last night, the world was were taken by surprise as US R&B/pop singer Beyonce revealed a protruded stomach at the MTV VMAs giving us more than a hint that she was pregnant. The 29-year-old singer who was dressed in a crimson gown cupped her hands around her stomach as she posed on the black carpet while the paparazzi snapped away.

A rep from Beyonce also confirmed the pregnancy while speaking with weekday television entertainment news company Access Hollywood.

This will be the first child from the multi-platinum selling artiste who tied the knot with Hip-hop rapper Jay Z back in 2008.

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Praiz Makes Debut With Two New Singles

There are quite a number of R&B singers in country at the moment and a notable is the Smooth singer Praiz. Born Praise Adejo he 28-year-old has been quite busy in recent times spending time in the studio and putting finishing touches to his still-to-be titled debut work.

Signed to X3M Music, Praiz has been on the tips of music lover tongues for a while now; after a stunning performance at the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) pageant this year and a few other show, music critics are now anticipating his singles.

According to his label the fast rising vocalist will be debuting with two new singles; ‘I love you’ and ‘Jekalo’ tomorrow Monday, August 29, 2011.

‘I’m offering these two songs to anyone who has ever felt the sweetness of love. Working on ‘I love you’ and ‘Jekalo’ was a positive experience for me and I’m talking to love birds on these cuts. It’s from Praiz with love and I’m sure everyone will fall in love with these songs’, Praiz says.

According to the uber talented act; ‘I love you’ featured production efforts by Wole Oni while Tee-Y Mix produced ‘Jekalo.

Since then he has gone on to wow music critics and fans with cameo appearances and collaborative efforts with top artistes in Nigeria; most notably his stellar performance on M.I’s ‘Epic’ and a guest appearance on alternative singer Bez‘s ‘Super Sun’ album. Praiz is signed to X3M music, a Lagos-based record label which houses rapper Overdose.

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Coson Declares September 1 As ‘No Music Day’

The Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) has declared Thursday September 1, 2011 as a ‘No Music Day’ throughout Nigeria. The declaration was made in a statement issued by COSON president Chief Tony Okoroji on Friday, August 26, 2011.

Okoroji says the day ‘will be dedicated to drawing national attention to the widespread infringement of the rights of composers, song writers, performers, music publishers and other stakeholders in the music industry in Nigeria’.

Similarly, the Nigerian Music Industry Coalition have requested that all broadcasting stations dedicate time on the same day to granting and airing interviews, debates or any other program related to artistes rights as a way of supporting the cause.

This isn’t the first time a protest of this sort would hold as it was first staged throughout the country two years ago on Tuesday, September 1, 2009.

In 2009, the compliance level was low, but the facilitators said at the time that the campaign was a success judging by the level of awareness and debate that followed the advocacy.

This also spurred the apprehension and prosecution of the notorious ‘Alaba King of Pirates’, Tony Onwujekwe and consequently the birth of COSON.

No word yet from PMAN, the umbrella body for musicians in Nigeria. And we’re yet to confirm which stations (TV and Radio) will be joining in the ‘No Music Day’ campaign…

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Banky W, Eldee, Tiwa Savage, Jesse Jags Headline Hennessy Artistry

Organizers of the popular music platform Hennesy Artistry have announced the list of artistes to participate in this year’s edition.

At a media briefing held at Liwkid Lounge, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday August 26, Tokini Peterside Hennessy’s Communications Manager, informed that singer/producer eLDee da Don, R&B singers Tiwa Savage, Banky W and pop singer/producer Jesse Jagz will be front lining this years’ Hennessy Artistry project.

According to Peterside, these four artistes were chosen ‘because of their cutting edge style that sets them apart from the crowd’. They will be working together to ‘create, mix and blend their different styles and sounds’ as they create a ‘special song’ that encapsulates the vivacious styles of music in Nigeria.

The organizers of Hennessy Artistry, the innovative musical platform launched by Hennessy worldwide in 2006, say ‘The grouping together of such varied artistes is what Hennessy Artistry is all about. That is: a perfect blend of unique elements similar to what is experienced with Hennessy’s premium range of cognacs. Similar to last year’s edition, a video will be shot for the song these artistes come up with. Four premium night experiences are also in the works at which our consumers can get to be a part of the Hennessy Artistry experience’, Peterside explained.

This year’s Hennessy Artistry will be showcasing eLDee, Tiwa Savage, Banky W and Jagz to the public giving them the opportunity to see and meet fans live at the Hennessy Artistry VIP Nights coming up in September and October in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

As a teaser to the upcoming VIP Nights, music acts YQ, DavidO, Shank and BlackMagic will be performing live at various clubs in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. Music will be supplied by BEAT Fm’s DJ Caise.

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Kefee Opens For Indie Arie at Chicago Fiesta

Irikefe Obareki popularly known as Kefee has been invited to opening the stage for American soul singer India Arie during the African Festival of the Arts, Chicago (AFA) at the main stage of Festival Dee Parmer Woodtor.

Kefee who jetted out of the country two weeks ago with her band members is on a month’s six-city tour of the United States told EE “If I ever liked African music, this experience has made me like it more now than I ever did. I am very proud of what I do. The reception of my kind of music has been overwhelming even though some of my audience don’t understand my language yet they respond enthusiastically”

Kefee would be joining the the likes of Angelique Kidjo and Hugh Masekela who before her had gotten the honour of flying the African banner on the AFA platform like Angelique Kidjo and Hugh Masekela. The show is expected to be seen by an estimated 30,000 people on Labour Day Weekend, September 5, 2011.

The festival is a yearly spectacular celebration of arts and culture from across the African Diaspora. The fiesta features a parade of African-cuisine, fabrics and visual arts. Other American stars that would perform at the event include gospel duo, Mary Mary and Bootsy Collins among others.

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Waleki's Latest Single Has Been Released

Talk Music recently obtained a first hand report that Port Harcourt based gospel artist/producer Waleki of Mixtawn Productions has just recently released his latest single titled "Believe". 

The track "Believe" is an inspirational song intended to lift the spirit and hearts of the discouraged, depressed and downtrodden in our society and the world at large. 

"Beleive" is produced with the core intent of giving glory to Jesus Our Lord from whom all blessing flow.  

It is presently available in Itunes and Amazon online shops.

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Tuface Finishes Song Recording With Akon

2face Idibia is getting set to release his duet with international music superstar Akon. 2face who recently won the Africa’s Best Act may be setting his eyes on much greater heights with the release of this album. He is said to have finished recording a duet with the CEO of Konvict muzic Akon in the United States. The song was recorded at Akon’s Konvict studio’s in Atlanta.

News has it that the promotional CDs of this brand new single are already being put together. But the title of the new single which was first hinted at by Akon some months ago is being kept under wraps. Some time around June, Akon tweeted “@Akon: Me and @2faceidibia working on a master plan in Atlanta! The world is not ready! African Connection”

There are also reports that Tuface is recording his forthcoming album in the America in the personal studios of R Kelly.

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Princess Mercy Johnson Goes Ahead With Traditional Wedding

Mercy Johnson Traditional Wedding Pictures

Mercy Johnson finally gets married after a lot of controversy, the nollywood actress finally married her heartthrob Prince Odianosen Okojie.

Mercy Johnson’s Church wedding is set to hold this Saturday and the chief bridesmaid Yvonne Nelson is already in town for it.

You can view some pictures of the wedding below, we would publish more of Mercy Johnson’s Wedding Pictures soon.

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Mercy Johnson Weds Prince Odianosen Okojie

It’s official Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson tied the knot with her Edo born lover Prince Odianosen Henry Okojie Today Saturday, August 27th 2011 at the Christ Embassy church Head quarters, Oregun Ikeja, Lagos. The wedding had been announced to commence 11 am, started two hours later with the bride and groom arriving the church premises simultaneously.

After a series of security protocols, the wedding went underway. Presided by Pastor Ton Obiazi and witnessed by a half filled church, the wedding took about two hours but was glamorous.

We will be bringing a well detailed report soon.

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Mo’ Hits Records, Int’l DJ Neptune & notjustOk Presents: BATTLE OF THE ENIGMA (Mixtape) By Don Jazzy

The Official #Enigma mixtape tagged “BATTLE OF THE ENIGMA” is finally here! It’s hosted by International DJ Neptune, one of Nigeria’s best disc jockeys, a member of the “Naija DJs” and the Official DJ to Naeto C and Storm Records.

The Battle of The #Enigma mixtape features the Top 50 entries as decided by Don Jazzy and the notjustOk Team, as well as FIVE (5) special guest entries from more recognized rappers X.O Senavoe, BIGZ, Godwon, Beazy and Mo’Eazy. The mixtape also has a healthy dose of international presence from Ghana, Zimbabwe, Haiti, South Africa and Malawi in addition to home country Nigeria.

It’s been real; it’s been fun, now it’s time to draw the curtain and put #Enigma to bed. As a parting gift, you can DOWNLOAD the “official souvenir” of the #Enigma competition and add it to your collection. Congratulations to the winner IBK Spaceshipboi and everyone else who made it into the “BATTLE OF THE ENIGMA” mixtape.

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Mercy Johnson's Mother: No evil hands or thought against my daughter will work!

In the last few weeks, nothing has dominated discussions in the entertainment industry like the wedding plans of controversial screen diva, Mercy Johnson.

The wedding which has been earlier overshadowed by rumours that it has been called-off will be holding on August 27.

In a recent interview, Mercy Johnson’s mother opens up about the husband snatching scandal.

Excerpts from the interview;

Madam, are you indeed Mercy Johnson's mother?

Yes I am. Mrs Elizabeth Johnson, mother of Mercy Johnson.

What are your plans towards her marriage amidst these controversies?

I don't have any plans now, God is our town planner, I put my trust in Him. He is the one that raised her to where she is today, before she met Odi God was aware, everything happening today are not unknown to Him. My belief is that if God assigns Odi of which I know He has done for her, as a husband, the gate of hell can't prevail over it. God that made their paths cross know their future, present and past, whosoever stands anywhere looking for the downfall of the innocent girl will face the battle of God.

Madam, did Odi inform you he was married as is generally reported in the media?

Odi isn't married, he told our family, that when he got to Italy, the lady was his girlfriend and she bore him a child, later, Lovely met a guy and followed him to Canada and she bore him that boy, the woman herself confirmed it. We are not aware of other things because Odi has said the truth and when we asked him how long they separated, he said for the past 5 years. Let us say the truth and let the devil be ashamed. I have told my daughter to let the will of God be done in her life. As for rumour mongers saying Mercy has scattered her home, she is the one who scattered her home because if she loves Odi she wouldn't have followed another man and even giving him a child, the man is late now, so they want to set my innocent daughter up and spoil her day of joy and I know God will never agree with them.

Why do you think this is a planned work to disrupt Mercy's wedding?

There are people who watch you without you knowing, out of all the children I have, Mercy is unique, I can never deny her anytime any day, she is gifted and God has used her to bring the family up, so if anybody is stepping on my joy, he or she will face the wrath of God cos one stupid person who claims to be a man of God said in the newspapers that if her mother is reasonable enough she will make her cancel the wedding. The man is not a born-again cos if he is and isn't deaf and blind, he would have asked how a woman who left her husband five years ago now shows up threatening with fire and brimstone, this definitely is a set up but as many as run their mouths against the Johnson's family will face the wrath of God because we are innocent.

Did you have any inkling at her inception or birth that she would be this famous?

No, we are Christians in our family, we hand our children to God and after that it is sealed up. It is God who made her what she is today, when she was young, she used to play and make a lot of people laugh, she is very free, that made us to know that she had a brighter future ahead, she was the head girl in secondary school, she always come first in sports, dress rehearsals so I see no reason why she shouldn't excel in her career. No evil hands or thought against Mercy can work; nobody can overcome her I Jesus name. (Father cuts in) I have been reading stories tarnishing our image, imagine somebody wrote that I said I have cancelled the wedding, when did I say so? We should have the fear of God in whatever we do. Like this Lovely of a person, if she is actually the wife of Odi and my daughter is struggling to take her away from her marriage, I will pray to God and tell my daughter not to go into another person's home but the truth is my daughter knew Odi in 2009, if Odi is so important to her why must she leave him for another man; now, she wants to come back saying somebody is snatching her husband from her, I can phone Odi's father and they will tell you they don't even know her.

There was also a report that Mercy has run away from home?

How can they say she has run away from home, I saw her this morning, we were together.

Madam, are you saying the wedding is still going on as planned?

God is a God of plans, He will bring out everything perfectly, we depend and look up to Him, we have put everything into his hands and nobody can change the plan of God

What would the party be like, is it going to be church affair or with some traditional touches?

In our area, we do traditional, court and church weddings. I did the three when I was getting married to her father; it is the same pattern that we will follow.

You don't attend the same church with mercy?

No we don't, we attend Pentecostal church, Mercy and her elder sister used to go to The Redeemed Christian of God before she started attending the Christ Embassy

What are her church plans for the wedding?

I don't have anything to do with the church cos we don't attend Christ Embassy; all I know is that God says her marriage will stand. Mercy is not the first person people will plan evil against. Our God is a God of battle. She has never soiled her hands in anything devilish. Many people mistaken her ole in movies to be her person, she has been given different names, some say she wants to marry because she is pregnant, I asked her if she was pregnant and she said she was in her period that she was going to show me.

So by your words, the wedding is going as planned?

By the grace of God, with all the powers of God. I Elizabeth , I say nothing though I have nobody to assist me, I have God, nothing will stop my daughter's wedding. Let this be a lesson for every woman who doesn't want their husbands to be their husbands. If you don't respect what you have when you lose it you will be crying for nothing because she lost her husband and Mercy took over, so nothing can happen. She has lost her husband, Mercy has taken over, let her go and die.

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Actress Mercy Johnson asks fans to pray for her, as she walks down the aisle on Saturday

Some called it a trial of love while others said it is a triumph of love, but for Mercy Johnson, it is simply a leap of faith.

We would like to formally inform the general public especially Mercy Johnson fans that after several legal and spiritual consultations, Mercy Johnson has decided to go ahead with the wedding plans.

MJ will be walking down the aisle come Saturday, August 27. She however urges her fans and friends to pray along with her and appreciates those who stood by her.

Signed
Bigsam Media

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D'BANJ AND MOHITS RECORDS CREW IN ILLUMINATI PLOT TO TURN THE NATION GAY

Eventually there’s undeniable explanation that Nigerian megastar entertainer, D’Banj, and other members of Mo’Hits record label lead by bountiful producer, Don Jazzy, are 100 pc confirmed members of the uber-evil secret cult, the Illuminati.

The certain proof was offered by artists of the record label themselves, causing Nigerians to philosophically comment that ‘they have used their own hands to do themselves.’ The proof in query is a video clip produced by the record label in which D’Banj, Don Jazzy, Doctor Sid, Wande Coal and an unidentified man dance like gay men to D’Banjs’ new hit single, Oliver Twist. Doctor Zen Solonso, a Zen expert and a leading name on everything Illuminati, analysed the video and exposed all of the concealed Illuminati symbols in it.

According to him, one of the largest objectives of the Illuminati is to turn everyone gay this is the reason why their known members like Kanye West, dress like Gay men. It might be remembered that D’Banj and Don Jazzy have just signed on to Kanye Wests’ record label.

In the group’s Oliver Twist video, they didn’t only dance like gay men, they also invite folk to record their own Oliver videos and post it to them at olivermohitsrecords.com. And they further lured folk with thousands of bucks that’ll be paid to the best video.

Already there are a large number of videos on Youtube showing younger people, both lads and lasses, dancing like gay men to the Oliver Twist song.

Doctor Solonso also indicated that in the group’s video Don Jazzy is wearing what seems to be checkered trousers. “This swapping pattern of white and black squares is the Illuminati’s mind control method,” he claimed. Indeed, according to the expert, the song’s familiar tune and highly danceable sound is down to Don Jazzy’s pants.

Doctor Solonso also indicated that at some specific point in the video the unidentified man walks across the camera, holding a red bag and what appears to be a fascinated horn. Eventually , the expert turned the spotlight on the sound speakers and other electronic apparatus organized to spell the word ILLUMINATI behind the artists as they dance like gay men. This, according to him, is the most powerful proof the video, the track, and the invite for folks to video their own Oliver Twist videos are nothing apart from an Illuminati plot to turn Nigerians gay.

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‘Our Marriage Is Intact’ – Will Smith And Jada Pinkett Shutdown Rumours

Contrary to the story In Touch weekly released some hours ago claiming that Hollywood star couple Will Smith and Jada Pinkett have separated, the prominent couple have come out to debunk the rumours.

Both Will and Jada’s reps responded to the ‘news’ by e-mailing a statement, making it clear that the Smith’s marriage is still standing on solid ground.

The statement reads ,’Although we are reluctant to respond to these types of press reports, the rumors circulating about our relationship are completey false,’. The statement adds ‘We are still together, and our marriage is intact‘.

The couple who have been married for 13 years have two children together, pop stars Jaden and Willow Smith.

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Actress Steph-Nora threatens to take P-Square to court over stolen song

Nollywood actress Steph Nora Okere is accusing the P-Square of stealing materials from one of the tracks in her yet-to-be released debut album. Yeah, she’s going into music too.

Steph claims that several months ago, she sampled the opinion of Jude Okoye, the elder brother, producer and manager of Peter and Paul, on one of her songs titled ‘Jeje’, only for her to find a sample of it in P-Square’s new album, The Invasion. Here’s what she told the press:

“I sent the song over to Jude via email and he listened to it. The next day I called him for his opinion and he said exactly these words ‘Stephnora the song is good but don’t release it like that because it doesn’t meet the standard of the Nigerian market’. I asked him what should be done and he suggested that I return to the studios and brush it up.

“As a brother and colleague, I took his advice and went back to the studio with my producer, Jiff. I also consulted with my manager, and we agreed to improve on the work ahead of the album launch, which I planned for this December. I finally completed the song in May/ June. But to my consternation, two weeks ago my personal assistant called my attention to P Square’s new album, which included a track entitled Jeje.

“What they did was to remix the chorus of my version to a danceable track. That was not all; they also gave their version the same title, Jeje and featured Waje.”

As Steph threatens to go to court, P-Square have kept totally mute on the issue.

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Hollywood Couple Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Separate

Touch Weekly has reported that Hollywood couple Will Smith and Jada Pinkett have officially separated. Their reps have confirmed.

The couple who have been married for 13 years have two children together, pop stars Jaden and Willow Smith. Pinkett is also the step mother of Will Smith’s first son from his previous marriage, Trey.

The separation has come as a shocking surprise to the whole world as the Smith and Pinkett have often been referred to as the ‘Ideal Couple’. The couple who met when Pinkett came to audition in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel Air‘ sitcom got married on December 31, 1997.

‘People think that Will and I don’t spend a lot of time together. Too much time, actually, if you ask me. It’s always nice to have a little time apart. Sometimes you need that‘, Pinkett was said to have told Uptown Magazine in June 2011.

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John Mikel Obi's kidnapped father found alive

  Mikel's father Michael Obi told of his ordeal at a press conference  

The kidnapped father of Chelsea and Nigeria footballer John Mikel Obi has been freed by police.

Officers raided a neighbourhood in the Nigerian city Kano on Monday where they found Michael Obi and arrested five suspects.

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Wizkid Impregnates Undergraduate, Gets Baby Girl

EME Popstar Wizkid has fathered his first child at 21, Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET) can confirm.

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Is Faze Broke?

Since the 2004 split of the successful talented pop trio called Plantashun Boiz, group member Chibuzor Orji – stage named Faze, has been the second most visible, trailing behind internationally recognised 2face. Despite releasing three albums claimed to have sold over six million units as at 2008, and a fourth in the works, questions are making the rounds about the vocalist’s financial and commercial state.

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Mercy Johnson Goes Ahead With Controversial August 27 Wedding

It was all going well for Mercy…

Nigerian Entertainment Today can authoritatively tell you that Nollywood star actress, Mercy Johnson, despite the recent controversy surrounding her upcoming wedding, will still be getting married on Saturday, August 27, 2011.

In the last few weeks the actress has faced allegations of snatching her husband-to-be Prince Odianosen Okojie from another woman; to managing rumours of

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BET, MTV Base To Honor Aaliyah With ‘Tribute Special’

It has been eight years since Aaliyah Dana Haughton passed away. The whole world went agog when it was announced that the 22-year-old singer lost her life tragic plane crash in the Bahamas on Thursday, August 25, 2001 after filming the music video for the song ‘Rock the boat’.

In remembrance of the late R&B singer, Black Entertainment Television (BET) and MTV Base will be honouring the accomplishments of the recording artist, actress and model before her untimely death.

The details of the ‘tribute special’ have not been announced but the network channels have hinted that they will be highlighting past videos and movies which the singer/actress.

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‘I Shouldn’t Have Been Nominated For The Headies’ – Don Jazzy.

It’s Don Jazzy again! The ubiquitous music producer seems to be making the news everyday; from hosting beat competitions where he has rewarded winners with cash prizes to featuring on Jay Z and Kanye West’s ‘Watch The Throne’ album, you could say the Mo’Hits C.E.O is living in good times.

On Friday, August 19, 2011, Don Jazzy paid a visit to Lagos urban radio station Beat FM where he was interviewed by OAP, Toolz. Don Jazzy talked about life with Kanye West, why Wande Coal hasn’t released any song since his debut in 2009, his new found love for wearing pyjamas and shocks all by querying his nomination at this year’s Headies

How did you come up with the ‘Oliver’ song?

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‘I’m Still Very Much Single’ – Teju Babyface

With a degree in Insurance from the University of Lagos, Teju Babyface dumped his BSc for the rib cracking business and no doubt it has being paying off well.

Now the host of the popular Teju Babyface Show, the dresser and charmer reveals his intimate side during this exclusive interview with our correspondent…

Can you please tell us your real names?

Teju Oyelakin

Your marital status?

Still very single o

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D’banj Wants More… "Oliver"

Who can agree with me that we all can wait for D’banj’s fourth studio album ‘Mr. Endowed‘ to drop? The Mo’Hits general has teased us with singles upon singles, and even though we are still jiggling to them, we are getting bored. Kokomaster please give us a full dose!

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Police tight-lipped on Mikel’s dad

The Nigeria Police is keeping information on the sudden disappearance of Pa Michael Obi, father of Chelsea midfielder, John Mikel Obi to its chest.


SuperSport.com’s attempts to squeeze emerging details from the Plateau State Police PRO, Apev Jacob, failed as he settled on talking on the briefs taken by the force to find Michael Obi Senior.
"The case with the state CID. The (Plateau police) commissioner is on top of everything and we have deployed everyone to search everywhere for Mr Michael Obi.

"I know we will get to the root of this. For now, I can't tell you more than that until I am briefed on the latest development. If there's any new development the police will make it official but like I said investigation is still ongoing," Jacob told SuperSport.com.

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Mikel family receive ransom demand.

THE KIDNAPPERS RESPONSIBLE for the abduction of Michael Obi, the father of the Chelsea’s John Mikel Obi, have apparently made contact with the midfielder’s family and issued a “sizeable” ransom demand for the businessman’s safe return.

Nigerian police suggested a figure of 20m Naira (approximately £80,000) had been demanded, but that figure was later dismissed by the player’s management.

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T.I. Writes Final Letter From Prison Before September 29 Release.

As scheduled, US rapper Clifford Harris better known as T.I will be released from a correctional facility in Forrest City, Arkansas on Thursday, September 29, 2011. The rapper who is currently serving an 11-month sentence posted an open letter via his Trapmuzik website where he talks about the ordeals he has faced over the recent years and his plan on how he will change when he gets out of prison…

Read below

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AfricaMagic To Pay Tribute To Sam Loco Efe

A special movie festival is to be dedicated to the late veteran Nollywood actor Sam Loco Efe as AfricaMagic plans to honour him. This was announced by the MNet Managing Director Biola Alabi and AfricaMagic Channel Head Juniper Musa.

Tagged the ‘AfricaMagic Sam Loco Efe festival’, the series of movies will commence broadcast in October. The late actor’s profile as well as commemorative messages will be screened on air.

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It’s Don Jazzy Again As Jay Z And Kanye West ‘Lift Off’

Don Jazzy, Jay Z and Kanye West in New York

When we found out Mo’Hits C.E.O and hitmaker Don Jazzy was signed to Kanye West‘s record label G.O.O.D Music,we were ecstatic and even more elated when it was announced that he was featured as a co-producer in the Jay Z and Kanye West collaboration ‘Watch The Throne‘, a track titled ‘Lift off” which features Beyonce.

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Obey, Juliana Dies At 67

Juju musician-turned-evangelist, Dr. Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi, has lost his wife Lady Evangelist Juliana Olaide Obey-Fabiyi. The 67-year-old woman died in the early hours of yesterday, Tuesday, August 23, 2011 at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) on Medical Road in Ikeja.

Although the family is yet to disclose the cause of death, we however gathered that the lady evangelist had recently travelled to a healthcare centre in India. A family source also told Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET) that she died of a heart related disease.

Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi reportedly quoted a bible verse at his first reaction of her death, ‘For this God is our God forever and ever. He will be our guide even unto death (Psalm 48:18)’, and speaking with our reporter when NET paid a visit to his residence on Olu Akerele Street by Balogun Bus/Stop, Ikeja on Wednesday, August 24, 2011 where a press briefing was being held, he said, ‘I have nothing much to say, but to thank the creator…. Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD (Job 1:21)’.

Born Juliana Olaide Olufade on March 23, 1945, the deceased married the Obey in 1963. NET also gathered that she was a frontline businesswoman and a poultry farmer.

Mrs. J. O. Obey-Fabiyi is survived by her husband, Evang. Obey Fabiyi (MFR), Shina, Rotimi, Bukky Obey-Olaiya, Lanre, Toluwaleke and Folarin.

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