Entertainment
Iconic Nollywood Actor, Pete Edochie Celebrates 77 Years In Grand Style
Veteran Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie, widely acknowledged as the Lion of Africa, celebrated his 77th birthday in a splendid fashion.
The esteemed thespian, and father to actor-turned-pastor Yul Edochie, shared a delightful series of photos on his Instagram page, each capturing the joyous moments of the milestone.
With a brief caption that read “IBOBO 77,” Edochie expressed his gratitude for another year of life and accomplishments.
Renowned as one of Nigeria’s most gifted actors, Pete Edochie has received accolades, including an Industry Merit Award from Africa Magic and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Film Academy.
Born on March 7, 1947, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Edochie hails from Nteje in Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State, and is happily married to Josephine Edochie.
As the veteran actor celebrated his 77th birthday, Nollywood stars and fans flooded social media with heartfelt felicitations, expressing gratitude to God for his remarkable life and contributions to the film industry.
Actress Rita Edochie, the sister-in-law of the celebrated actor, expressed her heartfelt celebration on Instagram (@ritaedochie).
She praised the Nollywood icon, emphasizing his love, care, concern, and overall amazing personality. Rita expressed her delight in being his sister-in-law, thanking God for having no regrets knowing Edochie and highlighting the exceptional person he is.
She said ”In over 30 years of knowing you as my dear husband’s brother, I have never known any regrets nor discomfort.
“Ibobo, you have been remarkably loving, caring, concerned, and amazing. I am greatly delighted to be your sister-in-law.
“I have said it before, and I will say it again, in my next life, I will surely be married by the Edochies.
“On this special day that marks another year of wonderful existence, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible person you are.
“Happy birthday, my great husband, your charisma, wisdom and warm heart have left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know you.
“May this year bring you so much joy, success, unforgettable moments. As you blow out the candles, may your wishes soar high and your dreams come true.
“Your presence in our lives is a true blessing; today is a reminder to cherish the remarkable soul that you are.
“Here is to another year of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories, cheers to you my great brother-in-law, like no other.
“I will always love and respect you, live in longevity, and soar immensely. Wishing you more of March 7, the great lion of Africa,” she added
On his Instagram page, actor Yul Edochie, son of the legendary Pete Edochie, shared a heartfelt birthday tribute to his father, expressing wishes for a remarkable celebration.
He wrote, “A very happy birthday to you, Daddy. The Lion of Africa. The Legendary Chief Pete Edochie (@peteedochie). The most handsome 77-year-old man. Ibobo Umueri, The Greatest. I wish you many more beautiful years filled with God’s blessings. May God lead you always..”
Entertainment
Olamide, Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Others Dazzle Fans At Flytime Music Festival 2024
Lagos witnessed an electrifying night of Afrobeats excellence on December 23, 2024, as the Flytime Music Festival took center stage.
Headlined by Nigerian music powerhouse Olamide, the event brought together an impressive lineup of stars to deliver unforgettable performances.
Olamide, affectionately called “Baddest” by fans, captivated the audience with back-to-back hits from his extensive catalog, including fan favorites like Melo Melo and Duro Soke.
The night turned emotional when Zlatan Ibile joined Olamide on stage and knelt in homage, a moment that resonated deeply with the crowd.
READ MORE: Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Former Ooni’s Wife, Others Remanded Over Stampede
The festival also showcased the generational impact of Olamide’s artistry.
Rising stars like Lil Kesh, Young Jonn, and Pheelz, who credit Olamide as a mentor, joined him on stage for a nostalgic display of talent.
Bella Shmurda, Fireboy DML, and Wande Coal also made show-stopping appearances.
A highlight of the night was the powerful duet between Olamide and Wande Coal on their hit song Kpe Paso.
Afrobeats royalty turned out in full force to support Olamide. Icons like Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Peruzzi, and Iyanya performed alongside emerging stars such as Magixx, Omah Lay, Orezi, Khaid, and Lojay, making the event a celebration of the genre’s past, present, and future.
CKay added extra flair by joining Olamide for a vibrant performance of their collaboration, Wahala, while Tiwa Savage brought her signature energy to the stage, keeping fans on their feet.
Backstage, entertainers Tunde Perry and Farulee added a dose of humor, further elevating the night’s excitement. Flytime Music Festival 2024 was more than a concert; it was a testament to the unifying power of music and a celebration of the global dominance of Afrobeats.
Entertainment
Davido Spotted With Burna Boy’s Mother At Tony Elumelu’s All White Party
Nigerian music sensation Davido was recently seen engaging warmly with Bose Ogulu, the mother and manager of Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy, at Tony Elumelu’s exclusive all-white party in Lagos.
The event, hosted by the prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist, gathered a star-studded assembly of celebrities, business leaders, and influencers.
The interaction between Davido and Ogulu drew significant attention, especially considering the previously reported tensions between Davido and Burna Boy.
Their cordial exchange at the event has sparked discussions among fans and observers, suggesting a possible easing of past disagreements.
READ MORE: Davido Announces 2025 Album 5IVE, Drops Single ‘Funds’
The all-white party, known for its elegance and high-profile guest list, featured performances from top Nigerian artists, including Davido and Burna Boy. Their individual performances were among the highlights of the evening, showcasing the unity and vibrancy of the Nigerian music industry.
Tony Elumelu’s gatherings are renowned for bringing together diverse talents and fostering a spirit of collaboration. The presence of both Davido and Burna Boy’s mother at the same event underscores the influential role such occasions play in bridging gaps within the entertainment community.
As videos and images from the event circulate on social media, fans express optimism about the potential reconciliation between the two music giants. Many hope that this encounter signifies a new chapter of collaboration and mutual respect in the Nigerian music scene.
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Entertainment
Tragic Funfair Crush In Ibadan Claims Children’s Lives
Several children lost their lives, and many others were injured in a tragic incident at a funfair in Ibadan, a city in south-west Nigeria.
The event, which was advertised as free entry, attracted a massive crowd, resulting in a crush as attendees struggled to gain access.
Eyewitnesses reported that over 5,000 children gathered at the venue, located at the Islamic High School Basorun. The tragedy unfolded when the main organisers arrived to begin the event. While the exact sequence of events leading to the crush remains unclear, the situation escalated into chaos, leaving scores injured.
READ MORE: Osun’s Mining Reforms Focused On Fairness, Equity – Governor
The Oyo state government confirmed the incident, stating that victims had been rushed to various hospitals across Ibadan for treatment. In a statement, they acknowledged “multiple loss of lives and injuries.” Authorities have urged concerned parents to check local hospitals for their children’s whereabouts.
The devastating event has left the community in shock, with residents mourning the lives lost in what should have been a joyous occasion. Investigations are expected to shed light on how the situation spiraled out of control.