Entertainment
“I Owe Less Than ₦30 Million” — Ubi Franklin
Nigerian music executive Ubi Franklin has recently addressed allegations concerning his financial obligations, asserting that his total debt does not exceed ₦30 million.
This statement comes amid public scrutiny and disputes over unpaid services and loans.
In April 2023, Franklin was accused by a web designer, known as Orebanz, of failing to compensate her for services rendered.
She claimed that Franklin engaged her to develop a website, but upon completion of 70% of the work, he became unresponsive and did not fulfil the agreed payment of ₦500,000.
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Franklin acknowledged the engagement but contended that the agreed amount was ₦350,000.
He expressed intentions to pursue legal action to address the allegations.
Additionally, in July 2021, Franklin disclosed that he was in debt prior to the COVID-19 pandemic due to unsuccessful business ventures. He revealed that during the pandemic, he engaged in Instagram Live interviews, which attracted sponsorships and helped alleviate his financial burdens.
More recently, Franklin was involved in a public dispute with Nigerian artist Spyro. Spyro alleged that Franklin owed him $5,000 for a performance, while Franklin countered by claiming that Spyro owed him ₦10.5 million for a car purchase. Spyro refuted this claim by sharing evidence on social media, including reminders sent to Franklin regarding the unpaid amount.
Franklin’s assertion that his total debt does not exceed ₦30 million appears to be an effort to provide transparency regarding his financial status amid these controversies. He has indicated a willingness to address and resolve these matters through appropriate legal channels.
Ubi Franklin, born Ubi Ekapong Ofem, is a Nigerian music artist manager, politician, entrepreneur, TV show host and the founder of record label Made Men Music Group (Triple MG) and Instant Apartment. Franklin is the current Special Adviser to Cross River State Governor Benedict Ayade on Tourism.
Entertainment
Bollywood Star, Saif Ali Khan Stabbed During Burglary Attempt At Mumbai Home
Saif Ali Khan, a prominent Bollywood actor known for his roles in films and TV series, was hospitalized on Thursday after being stabbed multiple times during an attempted burglary at his residence in Mumbai, his public relations team announced.
“There was an attempted burglary at Mr. Saif Ali Khan’s residence,” the team said in a statement, urging fans to remain patient as the actor recovers.
The 54-year-old star, who has appeared in over 70 movies, sustained injuries on his arm, according to his wife and fellow Bollywood icon, Kareena Kapoor.
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“Saif had an injury on his arm for which he is in hospital,” Kapoor told local media. “The rest of the family is doing fine,” she added.
Dr. Niraj Uttamani, a senior official at Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital, revealed to The Hindustan Times that Khan suffered six injuries, including two deep wounds.
Khan underwent surgery and is currently in stable condition, according to hospital sources.
The Press Trust of India reported that police have launched an investigation into the incident, with forensic teams examining Khan’s home for evidence.
Khan, the son of former Indian cricket captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi and veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, is a celebrated figure in Indian cinema.
His notable works include the 2001 hit Dil Chahta Hai and the acclaimed Netflix series Sacred Games.
Entertainment
Mohbad’s Father Shares Life After Son’s Death
Joseph Aloba, father of late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has disclosed that his life significantly improved following his son’s tragic death.
In an interview with media personality Akin Abolade, also known as Mrlilgaga, Aloba revealed that Mohbad’s demise triggered an outpouring of support from strangers.
“Let me just say yes, my life got better after Mohbad’s death because he is my friend. He had it in plan to do many things for me but they didn’t allow him to do them. After his death, it was the spirit of Mohbad, and that of God combined together that began to send people to assist me,” Aloba said.
The grieving father added that he has received numerous gifts, including a vehicle and a truck, from compassionate Nigerians. Aloba attributed this support to divine intervention, stating, “Even the car and everything I have now, it was people that gave them to me and it is beyond ordinary.”
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Speaking on Mohbad’s plans before his death, Aloba claimed his son was preparing to purchase a house and had plans to build a church for him. Aloba also accused Mohbad’s wife, Wunmi, and her family of taking possession of his landed properties.
Reflecting on his life before Mohbad’s fame, Aloba, a carpenter, singer, and pastor, shared how the birth of his son inspired him to pursue a career in music. He recalled Mohbad serving as a backup singer from the age of one.
The father also revealed that he has released nine tracks since his son’s death, further establishing his music career.
Mohbad passed away on 11 September 2023 in Lagos at the age of 26. Following his death, the Lagos State Police Command arrested an unlicensed nurse accused of administering a Tetanus vaccine to him shortly before his passing.
Aloba concluded the interview by showing off his newly acquired block industry, truck, and Toyota Highlander, all of which were donated by Nigerians moved by his son’s death.
Entertainment
May D Claims He Was Bigger Than Wizkid, Davido
Singer May D has sparked conversations with a bold claim that he was on the same level with Nigerian music giants Wizkid and Davido, and at one point, even bigger than them.
During a recent appearance on The Honest Bunch podcast, the “Soundtrack” crooner reflected on his career, drawing comparisons between his hit song “Soundtrack” and Wizkid’s breakout single “Holla at Your Boy.” According to May D, his song outperformed Wizkid’s hit during their peak period.
He said: “Then it was Wizkid, David, and I. I was even like bigger. Wetin be ‘Holla at Your Boy’ compared to ‘Soundtrack?’”
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May D also attributed part of Wizkid’s success to the singer’s departure from Square Records, May D’s former label, implying that circumstances within the label contributed to shaping Wizkid’s journey.
This statement has stirred reactions among fans, many of whom are debating the impact and legacy of May D compared to Wizkid and Davido in the Nigerian music industry.
May D, known for his candid takes, has previously made headlines with revelations about his career, including challenges and milestones he experienced during his time in the limelight.
The conversation continues as fans reminisce about the early 2010s when these artists shaped the sound of Nigerian music.