Entertainment
Naira Marley Always in the News for the Wrong Reasons?
By Eric Elezuo
Has it become a norm that each time popular singer, Azeez Fashola, aka Naira Marley, is mentioned in the news, it will definitely be for the wrong reasons.
Just last weekend, the self styled president of Marlians, was again involved in a crisis with both the authorities of the Federal Government and the management of Executive Jets, a privately owned airline operation services.
Last Saturday, the singer in company of ten members of his traveling crew were ferried from Lagos to Abuja to perform at Jabi Lake. The performance was against federal government laid down rules of social distancing and gathering. Consequently, the event place has been locked up by government while the license of Executive Jets was suspended.
In their bid to defend their actions, the management of the airline tendered an apology to the government wherein they called Marley and his crew ‘bunch of useless people’. In retaliation, Marley has vowed not to patronise the ‘useless’ airline again.
The worst of it all is that the government has threatened to arrest the singer, and if the make do their threat, it will become the umpteenth time he will be visiting the office of the law enforcement agency.
Recall that in March 2019, Naira Marley first made the headlines when he shared a particular post on his Instagram page to defend internet fraudsters. Not a few celebrities gave him the backlash.
Undeterred, he released the record ‘Am I A Yahoo Boy’ which though became a hit led to his arrest in the early hours of Friday, May 10 2019 by men of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for internet fraud.
His trial was talk of the town, and even promoted his brand as fans storm the court premises to catch a glimpse of him. He spent some days in prison, and was granted bail shortly after.
In December of the same year, Naira Marley was again accused of car theft. The singer and his brothers were accused of stealing a Toyota Camry and iPhone from one Mr Adelekan Ademola.
Naira Marley was not done as earlier in 2020 in the peak of the Coronavirus pandemic, he broke the lockdown orders when he attended Funke Akindele’s private birthday party.
He was arraigned among others but was later pardoned after an apology letter was tendered to the Lagos State Government.
Naira Marley is adored by his teeming fans, but he has not at any time fallen on the right side of the law. He has as remained anti-government as he is anti-law with group reputed as lawless and group of people ‘wey no get respect’.
Controversial may be the right name for Naira Marley as this time, but it is imperative to note that though Naira Marley may be popular, he is far from being famous.
The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, has been thrown into mourning following the sudden and tragic passing of actress and producer Allwell Ademola.
The 43-year-old actress reportedly died on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the entertainment community and her legion of fans.
According to multiple reports from within the film industry, the tragic event unfolded at Ademola’s residence, where she is said to have suffered a sudden heart attack.
She was swiftly rushed to a nearby hospital, but medical efforts were unable to save her life. The unexpected nature of her death, at such a relatively young age, has been a primary source of the widespread shock and disbelief.
News of her passing ignited an immediate and emotional outpouring of tributes on social media from heartbroken colleagues, highlighting the deep bonds within the Nollywood community and the high esteem in which she was held.
Fellow actress Faithia Williams expressed her raw grief on Instagram, writing: “Haaaa. This hit me so bad. Eniobanke. Allahu Akbar..Allwell.” Her post encapsulated the stunned reaction of many.
Actress Mide Martins marked the day as a “BLACK SATURDAY……” on Facebook, accompanying a photo of Ademola with the anguished plea, “This is not fair. May God forgive your shortcomings Allwell.”
Actor Damola Olatunji shared a somber, philosophical note with a candlelight image, captioning it simply, “Life is a mirage.”
The disbelief was palpable in the reaction of actress Bidemi Kosoko, who fervently rejected the initial reports: “No way. No, no,, no. Ko possible ooo. This isn’t true. God forbid, in Jesus’ name… I refuse to accept this one Lai Lai God forbid… Just reply to my message, abeg Oremi/ aunty mi. I will wait patiently for your reply.”
Allwell Ademola was a prominent figure in the Yoruba-language sector of Nollywood, known for her compelling performances and her work behind the camera as a producer.
Her sudden departure has left a significant void in the industry, prompting a period of collective mourning and reflection on her contributions to Nigerian cinema. Details regarding funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
The Balmoral Convention Centre at the Sheraton in Ikeja underwent a remarkable transformation on Sunday December 7th 2025, becoming the epicenter of Lagos Mainland’s entertainment scene as the highly anticipated Legends Decemba/Mainland Laffs 3.0 event unfolded. This spectacular gathering, which brought together an exhilarating blend of comedy, music, dance, and drama, successfully reaffirmed its reputation as an essential cultural highlight of the year. From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation. Attendees were greeted by a beautifully adorned red carpet, lined with vibrant branded banners and sponsor displays, creating a glamorous entryway for the array of celebrities, entertainers, and enthusiastic guests.
The audience was treated to an impressive lineup featuring comedy royalty and high-energy musical performances. The evening was headlined by the legendary Nigerian ace comedian Ali Baba, who brought his signature blend of humor and wisdom to the stage, elevating the event’s prestige. He was accompanied by the dynamic Kenny Blaq, celebrated for his innovative approach to musical comedy, and Phronesis, who captivated the crowd with his rapid-fire, sharp-witted jokes.
The mood of the night was expertly maintained by the charismatic host, MC Husband Material (Eze Chuwudi), whose engaging rapport with the audience ensured seamless transitions and heightened enthusiasm throughout the performances. Additional comedic talent was showcased by MC Bishop, Dr. Smile, MC Trick, Abadei, and 16 Onirun, each contributing to a relentless stream of laughter that filled the venue.
Beyond the comedy, the event was a celebration of diverse artistic expressions. Gospel rapper Protech opened the show with an electrifying performance that infused spiritual energy into the evening, followed by CJ the Violinist, whose melodic tunes created moments of reflection and tranquility. Mauren’s Art took the stage with a breathtaking dance performance, mesmerizing the audience and encouraging moments of joy and engagement across every artistic discipline.
The interior of the venue resonated with a positive, infectious energy. A creatively designed vendor village offered a vibrant marketplace featuring an array of local cuisine, refreshing drinks, unique fashion, and accessories, enhancing the festive atmosphere for all attendees. Inside the main hall, elegant seating arrangements ensured comfort and unobstructed views, while the professional stage, equipped with cutting-edge lighting, LED screens, and sound systems, provided a captivating backdrop for each performance.
The flawless organisation of the event was made possible through the support of First Bank Nigeria Limited through its annual DecemberIssaVybe lineup of events, along with backing from the Lagos State Government and LASAA. FirstBank’s contributions underscored the significance and scale of this cultural extravaganza, making it a landmark fun event for its numerous customers and also making the yuletide season an extravaganza.
Guiding the evening with charm and wit, MC Husband Material (Eze Chuwudi) kept the energy levels soaring high. The comedy segment was a showcase of both established stars and emerging talents. The crowd erupted in laughter at Kenny Blaq’s musical comedy interludes and Phronesis’s clever punchlines, while the talents of MC Smiles, Larry J, MC Trick, Abadei, and 16 Onirun ensured a varied and entertaining comedy showcase that spanned generational humor.
As the night progressed, the entertainment spectrum expanded to include a rich tapestry of musical and artistic performances. The high-energy opening by gospel rapper Protech was followed by the soul-stirring melodies of CJ the Violinist, who captivated the audience with his unique musical interpretations. A dynamic dance performance by Mauren’s Art added another layer of depth, while artists like Oba Richie, Angelo, Switch, and Ozzy transformed the venue into a lively concert hall, energizing the crowd with their infectious tunes.
The climax of the show arrived when Innocent Idibia, famously known as 2Baba or 2Face, graced the stage, taking the audience on a journey through nostalgic memories with his timeless hits. Despite the controversies that have occasionally surrounded him, he delivered a stunning performance that resonated deeply with fans old and new.
As he performed, the crowd became a chorus of voices, singing along with enthusiasm to his classic songs from his debut album through to his latest releases. 2Baba’s charisma was evident as he moved among the audience, engaging with fans and soaking in the palpable love emanating from the crowd. His performance was nothing short of electrifying and served as the perfect crescendo for the evening.
With an impressive command of the stage, 2Baba showcased why he is considered a legend in the music industry. His ability to captivate the crowd was remarkable, every note he sang, every gesture he made drew the audience in, creating a shared experience that felt intimate yet grand. Even as he neared the end of his set, the audience was reluctant to let him leave, chanting for more as they were spellbound by the magic of his music.
2Baba’s performance was not just a concert; it was a celebration of his legacy and contributions to the Nigerian music scene. It solidified his status as an icon, one who has not only defined a genre but has also connected generations through his artistry. The night truly belonged to him, a testament to his enduring influence and the deep affection fans have for him and his work.
As the event drew to a close, attendees left buzzing with excitement, carrying with them the vibrant memories of a night that perfectly balanced professional production with genuine talent. Mainland Laffs 3.0 proved to be more than just an entertainment event; it was a powerful celebration of community pride and a vivid showcase of the creative spirit flourishing on the Lagos Mainland.
According to FirstBank Representatives, “We supported the event because it was meticulously designed to embody the essence of community’s talent and vibrancy,”.
“From the laughter to the music to the palpable energy in the room, it was the ultimate ‘DecembaIssaVybe’ experience. We are incredibly pleased with the outcome and extend our gratitude to the organisers, performers, and most importantly, the wonderful people of Lagos who joined in the celebration.”
MILO Nigeria has welcomed a new group of influencers to strengthen its long-standing connection with consumers in Northern Nigeria. The influencers include Ahmed Musa, Nigerian professional footballer and youth role model; Mansurah Isah, actress, filmmaker, humanitarian and social impact advocate; Ali Jita, songwriter and musician; Sulaiman Yahaya (popularly known as Bosho), Kannywood actor and comedian Anita Asuoha (Real Warri Pikin), who has renewed her contract as a member of the MILO family.
In the photo: Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, Beverages, Nestlé Nigeria; Sulaiman ‘Bosho’ Yahaya, Kannywood actor and comedian; Mansurah Isah, actress, filmmaker, humanitarian and social impact advocate; and Ahmed Musa, Nigerian professional footballer.
Speaking on the new partnerships, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, Beverages, Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized the brand’s commitment to inclusivity. “This partnership reflects our dedication to ensuring that every Nigerian child experiences the nourishment, energy and possibilities that MILO represents. By working with creators who authentically reflect their communities and whose values align with ours, we are celebrating the bonds MILO has built with families across Nigeria in the most inclusive and meaningful way.”
During their induction, the influencers went on an immersive factory tour to get first hand information on MILO’s key ingredients, including cocoa, milk, and sorghum, which is 100% sourced in Northern Nigeria. , They had the opportunity to see how these ingredients are transformed into the final product through cocoa roasting, milk blending, and malt preparation. Their reports confirmed that the visit highlighted MILO’s dedication to quality, nutrition, hygiene and food-safety standards.
Reflecting on the experience, Mansurah Isah said: “Seeing how MILO is made gave me a new level of respect for the brand. I was particularly impressed by the level of hygiene maintained throughout the process. The thoroughness, the quality checks at every stage were remarkable. It made me even prouder to take this journey with MILO.”
The signing ceremony took place at the Nestlé Head Office in iIlupeju, Lagos, where the influencers engaged with employees and shared their personal reflections on joining the MILO family. Ahmed Musa spoke about his excitement, highlighting MILO’s significant impact in communities across Northern Nigeria. “What stands out for me is how MILO invests in young people. From sports to school activities, you see the brand’s impact everywhere. I’m excited to use my platform to inspire even more children across the North,” he said.
For Sulaiman Yahaya (Bosho), the opportunity to partner with a brand that consistently supports youth development was a key motivator. “MILO has been part of our lives for years. To now be part of this journey is something special,” he shared.
From the MILO Basketball Championship to Building Champs and other school-driven programs, MILO continues to nourish children, support communities, and inspire a generation to grow stronger through active and healthy living.
Photo Caption: L-R Sulaiman ‘Bosho’ Yahaya Kannywood actor and comedian, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, Beverages, Nestlé Nigeria, Mansurah Isah, actress, filmmaker, humanitarian and social impact advocate and Ahmed Musa, Nigerian professional footballer
