Nollywood actor Uche Maduagwu has expressed his concerns regarding a recent event at Prophet Chukwuemeka Cyril Ohanaemere’s (Odumeje) church, The Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry.

Uche Maduagwu took issues with Odumeje allowing actor Yul Edochie and his second wife, Judy Austin, to participate in the birthday celebration at his church , citing that Yul’s divorce proceedings with his estranged wife, May, are still ongoing.

Maduagwu questioned Odumeje’s decision, suggesting that it may be perceived as endorsing adultery.

He emphasized that Odumeje should be mindful of the message his actions convey, particularly in a religious setting.

“ODUMEJE, this is Spiritually Wrong. Stop Normalizing ADULTERY for your church. You know Yul never Divorce my Queen May Queen May as the matter still Dey Court, and he NEVER pay one Naira for Judy bride price, so, what is Judy doing with Yul for your church alter? She even Dey stand like Sey she Dey for Miss OBASI beauty Pageant. Are you truly a Prophet? Will Jesus promote ADULTERY like this in public? ODUMEJE, if my Queen May Queen May Na your sister, will you have invited Judy and Yul to your church alter like this? So, why you Na Dey turn church to Sambisa Market all for Attention,” he
captioned his post.

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A post shared by Nollywood Actor Uche Maduagwu (@uchemaduagwu)

Yul Edochie and his second wife, Judy Austin had created a scene during worship at Odumeje’s church.

The footage, which has since taken over the internet, captured Yul and Judy standing boldly on the altar, a move that immediately drew the attention of the congregation.

In a dramatic display that mirrored his controversial social media persona, Yul took the microphone and launched into a passionate speech, praising Judy in his native dialect.

The post Uche Maduagwu blasts Prophet Odumeje over Yul Edochie & Judy Austin appeared first on ENTERTAINMENT — WITHIN NIGERIA.

‘American Japa’, a Nollywood movie directed by American-Nigerian filmmaker Tony Abulu, is set to hit cinemas across the country on September 6.

Actress Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi shared the film’s trailer in an Instagram post on Thursday. KOK wrote:

“Behold the star studded ‘American Japa’ film coming to cinemas on September 6, 2024,”

“Premiering at Film House The Palms Mall on August 30.”

‘American Japa’ follows the story of commercial sex workers and their dream to relocate to the United States for greener pastures.

“Japa” is a Yoruba word meaning “to run away”. It is the emigration of Nigerians, usually for economic opportunities.

The film features a number of prominent Nollywood stars such as Toyin Abraham, Odunlade Adekola, Kanayo O Kanayo, Bolanle Ninalowo, Segun Arinze, and Yemi Blaq.

Other cast members include Ronke Oshodi Oke, Jide Kosoko, Wumi Toriola, Jumoke Odetola, Tina Amuziam, Lizzy Jay, Shirley Igwe, and Tommy Roland.

‘American Japa’ was created by Atlantic World Digital Communications. It was produced by Abulu, the Nigerian-born US-based producer, and co-produced by Angel Ufuoma.

Watch the trailer below.

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A post shared by Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi (@toyin_abraham)

In other news, Nigerian Afropop music star Stanley Omah Didia, whose stage name is Omah Lay, has peaked the attention of many with his recent revelation.

During a chat with media personality Zach Sang on the show where music and pop culture are discussed, the singer revealed that his idea was stolen.

Omah Lay noted that a Nigerian Afrobeat star stole his idea to make their album just four months after he shared his plans with them.

The post Toyin Abraham, Kanayo O Kanayo, Odunlade Adekola feature in ‘American Japa’ appeared first on ENTERTAINMENT — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The third season of the action-packed political thriller, King of Boys, is in the works, Kemi Adetiba has disclosed.

Adetiba, who is the director of the critically acclaimed movie and TV show, confirmed the release of a third sequel on Thursday.

She made the disclosure after a fan on X (formerly Twitter) @Thazhigilla_ asked, “Will there be a third sequel for KOB?”

Replying to the fan, Adetiba said, “YES,” and an hour later, she posted a picture of what appeared to be the front of the script which read, ‘KING OF BOYS 3 (THE BEGINNING OF THE END)’.

She added, “Juuuuust in case you thought I was pulling your legs.”

‘King of Boys’ movie was released in 2018 and became an instant massive hit in Nigeria and beyond becoming the choice movie of many cinema-goer at the time.

It chronicles the story of Alhaja Eniola Salami, a powerful and highly influential businesswoman and philanthropist with political ambitions, played by Sola Sobowale.

The first season of ‘King of Boys’ introduced audiences to Alhaja Eniola Salami’s world. It explored her rise to power in the criminal underworld and her transition into politics.

The season was praised for its compelling and relatable narrative, strong character development, exceptional directorial skill and brilliant performances. In 2021, ‘King of Boys: The Return of the King’ premiered on Netflix as a seven-part series, continuing Eniola Salami’s story.

This season went deeper into her inordinate ambition for power and quest for revenge as she trudge through the murky waters of politics. It expanded the plot introduced in the first film, offering fans a more detailed and intricate storyline.

The series was well-received, cementing Kemi Adetiba’s reputation as an astute filmmaker.

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Popular Nigerian actor and filmmaker Azeez Ololade Ijaduade has been shot in Ogun state.

He was shot by a police officer in Iperu area of the state on Saturday night.

The thespian has since been hospitalised and he’s battling for his life.

Ijaduade contemporary, Abiodun Adebanjo (@iamabiodunadebanjo), confirmed the incident in an Instagram post late on Saturday.

He said that Ijaduade is currently receiving treatment at Babcock University Teaching Hospital.

Adebanjo also sent out a distress call, appealing to members of the public for help.

“Please we need help in Iperu,” the story read. “My director, Azeez Ijaduade, @kingzeez1, was shot by a Nigeria Police personnel. He is presently at Babcock University Teaching Hospital. Anybody with the contacts of the Police IG or Commissioner should reach out.”

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A post shared by Abiodun Adebanjo (@iamabiodunadebanjo)

The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, has not issued a statement concerning the incident and efforts to reach him have proved abortive.

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Popular Nollywood actor, Femi Adebayo, has said he had to resort to selling off some of his properties to offset the cost of producing his latest movie, ‘Jagun Jagun.’

This is as he disclosed that he encountered financial challenges during the making of the movie which almost sabotaged the project.

He made the disclosure in a recent interview, adding that the movie came to fruition because he was determined to produce it amidst the overwhelming odds.

Adebayo said he used the proceeds from his previous movie ‘Agbeshinkole’, and sold some of his properties to in order to make ‘Jagun Jagun’ a reality.

He said he spent billions of naira on the new movie, which premiered on Netflix on August 10.

Femi Adebayo is the son of Adebayo Salami, a veteran actor popularly known as Oga Bello.

The actor has been featured in several Nollywood movies including ‘Owo Blow’, ‘Apaadi’, ‘Ayitale’, ‘Makalik’ and ‘Survival of Jelili’.

He said, “Jagun Jagun is a multi-billion-naira project and I cannot say the exact amount I spent on shooting it.

“I used the proceeds of Agbeshinkole to produce Jagun Jagun. I was working on it not getting funded by finance houses and individuals.

“At a point, I was out of finance and because I had faith that the project would work, I sold my properties”

The movie has sharply divided opinions among art critics and movie aficionados. Many, who believed the project is a beautiful work of art, have praised the cinematography, props, settings, visual effects and costumes, while also extolling the dexterity of the actors to execute their roles.

Others have criticised the movie for its wonky dialogue, fighting scenes that appeared to be an imitation of Chinese movies and its portrayal of Yoruba history and culture in certain areas.

The post How I sold my properties to produce multi-billion Naira project ‘Jagun Jagun’ – Femi Adebayo appeared first on ENTERTAINMENT — WITHIN NIGERIA.

Nollywood actor, Femi Adebayo, recently premiered his new movie “Jagun Jagun” on Netflix, which has garnered favourable feedback from movie lovers.

As the movie made its debut, numerous individuals flocked to social media platforms to offer their varied perspectives on the newly released cinematic creation.

However, a specific scene captures the moment where Femi Adebayo summons Bukunmi Oluwasina ‘Agemo’, a formidable assassin, to join his warriors on the battlefield.

Agemo’s dramatic entrance into the battlefield showcased her exceptional prowess as she singlehandedly confronted and vanquished Femi’s enemies.

The official Twitter handle of Netflix Naija shared this captivating clip, accompanied by a caption that wrote:

“Who needs an army when Agemo is there? #JagunJagun.”

Watch the video below:

Who needs an army when Agemo is there? #JagunJagun pic.twitter.com/H0sz73BllB

— Netflix Nigeria (@NetflixNaija) August 12, 2023

The trailer stirred a frenzy online as netizens were impressed by Bukunmi Oluwasina’s antics.

@__adewale wrote: “Nigerian flash.”

@Dayo_oladejo wrote: “Agemo shouldn’t have died…”

@empror24 wrote: “The Spirit Warrior Agemo fought with a coal shell Sword never missed a single slash. Whoever knew who was behind the (Abe Eku), someone did unmarked it. Who does it better after the late Herbert Ogunde of (Aiye) or Thunder Bolts.”

@SayMamaKay wrote: “After all this showoff na still tree finally kill Agemo.”

@BIGyoskiG wrote: “Agemo na flash with Shinobi skills.”

@darmie_king wrote: “Agemo should be released in series as Nollywood superhero movie.”

@Mykoladoo wrote: “Na to send am go Niger.”

@realfemiadebayo wrote: “Abeg give Nigeria Agemo contact.”

@tobbiematthew wrote: “Agemo and Niger Republic.”

@trapdrac007 wrote: “Marvel should not steal our agemo o.”

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In a statement signed by the National President of AGN, Mr Emeka Rollas, MON, they have been monitoring Jerry’s involvement in illicit substances since December, last last until it got out of hand and as it is now, he cannot be allowed to associate with other performers on set due to endangering their lives.

According to him, the situation is a matter of safety for fellow actors.

The statements reads in part; “the Guild has been monitoring his involvement in illicit substances since December last year, until it got out of hand and as it is now, he cannot be allowed to associate with other performers on set due to danger.

“He ought to have been suspended before now. But we decided to allow him go through minor treatments, which he has been defaulting overtimes. But at it stands now, Jerry is a risk not only to himself but also, other actors who might be acting alongside him on set.

“We, therefore, have decided to suspend him indefinitely until he gets a clean bill of health from a medical practitioner or a professional that handles drugs abuse.’”

Jerry hit the limelight after starring in the epic move, “The Chosen King”. He’s known for playing the role of a ‘prince, king, warrior, and palace guard, hunter, romantic guy, terrorist, and many other roles in his past movies.

The post BREAKING: AGN suspends actor Jerry Williams indefinitely over drugs abuse appeared first on ENTERTAINMENT — WITHIN NIGERIA.

Recall Ijakumo premiered at cinemas in December 2022, but was released via Netflix on Friday, June 23.

Bad reviews have trailed the movie on social media with some people insisting that they enjoyed it.

Responding to the negative comments, Toyin Abraham claimed that many who were critical of the movie were those opposed to her support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2022.

The actress questioned why her choice is a problem that is currently affecting her hardwork. She added that a group of people created a WhatsApp group particularly to badmouth her movie. She tweeted:

“You all went to create WhatsApp group cos of Ijakumo the born again stripper, pls continue maybe it’s today I will kuku break the table. You all will tell the world why choosing my own candidate is a crime and yours isn’t. Loni yi mo mura yin wa.”

Ijakumo follows the story of a spiritualist, Asabi, who seeks vengeance against a former lover turned pastor. She employs the help of a stripper to lure the cleric to his doom.
See some reviews and Toyin’s reaction below:

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Speaking with the Punch, he credited effective time management as a key factor in his success. Instead of spending leisure time at the pub like some of his colleagues, Saka utilizes it for more productive pursuits. Being a civil servant, most of his filming takes place on weekends or holidays, a fact well-known to Nigerian producers.

According to the film legend, their mutual understanding creates a harmonious home environment, allowing him to pursue his endeavors with peace of mind and find time to relax.

He said, “I teach and I am also involved in theatre but I have been able to manage my time. The time some of my colleagues use at the beer parlour, I use mine for other productive things. Secondly, most producers in Nigeria know that I am a civil servant and as a result, most of my shooting takes place on weekends or during the holidays.

“Also, I have a very good wife who takes good care of me. I always tell people that the best thing that can happen to a man is for him to get a wife who shares in his vision. My wife and I understand each other very well so that there is no problem at home. I have rest of mind in all that I am doing, and I also have time to rest.”

Speaking on which of his career path is more rewarding for him, Saka said both his acting and teaching careers are rewarding in different ways. He added that they are both similar too.

He said, “Rewarding is relative. As a teacher, I feel fulfilled because a lot of people have passed through me and that is a lifetime value. I have been in academics for almost 30 years. Recently, I went somewhere in Abuja to see someone I lectured and I was treated well. So, being a lecturer is rewarding, and it might not (necessarily) be financial. Being an actor is also rewarding financially and I enjoy it.

“I believe that both a teacher and an actor are the same. While the teacher is teaching in class, an actor is teaching outside the class. Now, in terms of the reward, acting is financially more rewarding. However, teaching is more valued. I can count a number of people that have passed through me and are doing well.”

In addition, the actor said he tries to move with time and remain relevant by following the current trends. He noted that he is active on social media platforms and that even if he would lose his relevance, following any negative trend was not an option for him.

The post How my wife helps me balance teaching, acting careers – Actor Afeez Oyetoro appeared first on ENTERTAINMENT — WITHIN NIGERIA.

In addition to shining a light on crime, he seized the opportunity to highlight the magnificence of Ibadan, Oyo State, as an exceptional filming destination. The movie showcased two distinct settings: the vibrant urban landscape portrayed as Lagos and the serene village scenes shot in Ijaye, Ibadan.

According to Mr Tunez Filmmaker, the decision to film ‘Arinfesesi (A Day of Misfortune)’ in Ibadan, Oyo State, was driven by two primary factors. Firstly, he focused on unveiling lesser-known locations within Ibadan and highlight the city’s scenic beauty as a captivating backdrop for the movie. Secondly, he emphasised the peaceful and hassle-free shooting environment that Ibadan offered, in contrast to the challenges often encountered in other areas.

In the movie, Ibadan served as a stand-in for Lagos, with careful attention to detail in recreating the city’s essence. Through the use of drones and aerial shots, the filmmaker skilfully portrayed the illusion of Lagos, including the apartments and various urban settings. This creative approach allowed them to capture the spirit of both cities within the confines of Ibadan.

Mr Tunez Filmmaker lauded the abundance of hidden locations in Oyo state, which provided unique and undiscovered landscapes for scenes in the movie. He also highlighted the absence of common disruptions encountered during filming, such as touts demanding money (owo omo onile). The peaceful and cooperative atmosphere allowed the cast and crew to focus on their work without unnecessary distractions, contributing to the smooth execution of the film.

“Ibadan, Oyo state is a very good place to shoot your movie. Number one, you have lots of locations that people don’t know. Number two, is extremely peaceful to shoot. No, agbero will stop you when you’re shooting. People don’t demand for money, owo omo onile. All these owo omo onile and co., you don’t hear about them in Ibadan,” Mr Tunez Filmmaker told entertainment journalist and media expert Adeyinka Oluwamayowa.

This deliberate choice of settings allowed for a dynamic storytelling experience that reflected the diverse aspects of Nigerian society. Shooting ‘Arinfesesi’ in Ibadan, Oyo state not only showcased the city’s aesthetic appeal but also demonstrated the potential of Oyo state as an ideal filming destination.

Mr Tunez Filmmaker’s decision to bring attention to Ibadan’s cinematic potential aligns with his vision to explore untapped resources and support the growth of the local film industry. As a result, Ibadan served as the backdrop for a captivating and successful production that fascinated audiences and will soon be showcased at the Toronto International Nollywood Festival in Canada.

In the interview with Adeyinka, Mr Tunez Filmmaker emphasised the urgency of confronting the multitude of atrocities, disasters, and bombings that have plagued Nigeria in recent times. He articulated his conviction that some of these acts cannot be attributed solely to alleged terrorists, but are instead orchestrated by individuals who profit from these malevolent actions.

Driven by a deep sense of responsibility to raise awareness, Mr Tunez Filmmaker set out to depict the ordeals faced by innocent individuals caught in the web of such wickedness with the movie, ‘Arinfesesi (A Day of Misfortune)’. His objective was to illuminate the potential complicity of politicians in these nefarious deeds, encouraging viewers to critically examine the underlying causes and motivations.

With a genuine desire to create social consciousness, Mr Tunez Filmmaker used his filmmaking expertise to shed light on the intricate web of these atrocities. By exploring the experiences of ordinary people who have unwittingly become victims of such violence, he aimed to challenge prevailing narratives and prompt a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play.

Through ‘Arinfesesi,’ Mr Tunez Filmmaker initiated important conversations about the root causes of these heinous acts, highlighting the possibility of vested interests exploiting the situation for personal gain. By delving into these sensitive topics, he hoped to provoke introspection and encourage society to address the systemic issues that perpetuate such violence.

In undertaking this endeavour, Mr Tunez Filmmaker recognised the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change. Through the medium of film, he strived to inspire audiences to question established narratives, demand accountability, and work towards a more just and harmonious society where the innocent are protected from the machinations of the few who seek to profit from their suffering.

The screenplay for ‘Arinfesesi’ was skilfully crafted by David Osarieme and brought to life by an ensemble cast of renowned Nollywood actors, including Akin Lewis, Jaiye Kuti, Shawn Faqua, and Bolaji Ogunmola. Taking charge of the production and directing duties was the talented Babatunde Akinnayajo, better known as Mr Tunez Filmmaker.

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