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THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE! Grill Fest Gidi-Owambe: The Outdoor Edition Redefines Entertainment in Lagos

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THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE! Grill Fest Gidi-Owambe: The Outdoor Edition Redefines Entertainment in Lagos

December 7th, 2024, will forever be etched in the annals of Lagos’ entertainment history! Grill Fest Gidi-Owambe: The Outdoor Edition transformed Amore Gardens in Lekki into a vibrant spectacle, showcasing the best of Nigerian culture, music, and entertainment!

The event kicked off with a resplendent Cultural Welcome Parade and Dance, courtesy of the talented Ijoola Theatre Troupe! The troupe’s high-energy performance set the tone for an unforgettable day, celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage!

The charismatic duo of White Money and Abike Shugar hosted the event with finesse, keeping the crowd entertained throughout! Music performances by Kinetics Band, MoGevson, Sir Shina Peters, AnyiDons, Terry Apala and LakeSyd had attendees grooving and singing along! DJ Ivatar, Yeankz, and hypemen Mato Bobo, GodOver, kept the energy electric!

Nollywood stars ADEJINIYI JOHNSON, MOJISOLA ADEBANJO, FOLASHADE ADELEKE, SAMUEL BANKS, VICTORIA ENE, BEERAH, JO BLAQ, KEMZ MAMA, M KIDDO, TIMANZEH and made special appearances, mingling with fans and taking photos!

Beyond the music and cultural performances, Grill Fest Gidi-Owambe: The Outdoor Edition offered a variety of games and side attractions that catered to all ages! From thrilling rides to engaging contests, there was something for everyone to enjoy!

A huge presence of partners and sponsors, including Crown Flour Mills, Budweiser, Bigi, Gledinfich, OnBurd, and many more! Who made the unforgettable event possible!

If you missed out on the fun, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered! Check out our photo gallery and relive the magic of Grill Fest Gidi-Owambe: The Outdoor Edition!

Check out photos from the event below;

Seven Doors: Femi Adebayo Directional Debut Movie; Seven Doors Now Streaming On Netflix

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Seven Doors: Femi Adebayo Directional Debut Movie; Seven Doors Now Streaming On Netflix

IT’S FINALLY HERE!

The wait is over, and the highly anticipated Netflix series ‘Seven Doors’ is now available to stream globally!

As of today, December 13, 2024, you can immerse yourself in the gripping narrative, rich in suspense and emotional depth, that explores themes of love, power, betrayal, and redemption.

WHAT TO EXPECT

‘Seven Doors’ is a game-changing series that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and unexpected twists, this series is a must-watch for fans of thrillers, romance, and compelling drama.

STREAM NOW ON NETFLIX

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of ‘Seven Doors’ for yourself. Stream the series now on Netflix and join the conversation using the hashtag #SevenDoors.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

What do you think of ‘Seven Doors’ so far? Share your thoughts, reactions, and theories in the comments below!

EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK: Femi Adebayo’s Netflix Series ‘Seven Doors’ Promises to be a Game-Changer

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EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK: Femi Adebayo’s Netflix Series ‘Seven Doors’ Promises to be a Game-Changer

Wednesday night, the city of Lagos came alive as Euphoria 360 of Femi Adebayo rolled out the red carpet for the exclusive premiere of its latest series, ‘Seven Doors’. The highly anticipated event, held at the Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX Lekki Lagos, attracted an array of Nollywood stars, filmmakers, and industry insiders eager to witness the unveiling of what promises to be a game-changer in the world of Nigerian cinema.

A Gripping Narrative

As the title suggests, ‘Seven Doors’ invites viewers into a world of mystery and intrigue. The series, set against the backdrop of Ilara, Ondo State, revolves around King Adedunjoye, whose life takes a dramatic turn upon his ascension to the throne. His love life is threatened, he experiences loss, and darkness falls upon the village. But all these could go away if he agrees to “open seven doors.” With his marriage on the line, he has to make a tough decision; to protect it or save the people of Ilara from further doom.

The narrative, rich in suspense and emotional depth, explores themes of love, power, betrayal, and redemption, showcasing the complexities of human relationships.

A Challenging yet Rewarding Filmmaking Process

During the Q&A session, the series director, Femi Adebayo, shared his inspiration and challenges in the filmmaking process. “My journey on this project has been extremely challenging, especially post-production. But here we are today. Thank you,” he said.

A Commitment to Showcasing African Stories

Netflix executives, as well as industry professionals, expressed excitement about the project, emphasizing their commitment to showcasing African stories with universal appeal.

Get Ready for the Global Debut

‘Seven Doors’ will debut globally on Netflix on December 13, 2024. If the premiere is anything to go by, audiences are in for an unforgettable ride. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers, romance, or compelling drama, this is one series you won’t want to miss.

 

Check Some Guest Pictures Below:

Ogun to connect Lagos metro rail lines as Abiodun presents N1trillion 2025 budget

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Ogun to connect Lagos metro rail lines as Abiodun presents N1trillion 2025 budget

Ogun State government has revealed plans to connect with the Lagos metro rail lines in 2025. This was disclosed in the N1.054 trillion 2025 presented to the state house of assembly by Dapo Abiodun, the state governor, on Wednesday.

 

Extension of metro rail lines: Redline (Agbado-Kajola), Blueline (Okokomaiko-Agbara/Lusada), and Purpleline were listed under the major projects the state government plans to execute in 2025.

 

The appropriation bill tagged “Budget of Hope and Prosperity,” consists of N453.56 billion in recurrent expenditure and N600.98 billion in capital expenditure.

 

The Lagos State government launched the Blue Line, its first metro rail in 2023. The first phase of the rail line runs from Marina to Mile 2. The second phase, which is under construction, will run from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko. The third phase, which involving Ogun State government, will run from Okokomaiko to Agbara/Lusada.

 

The Red Line, which started commercial operations in October, runs from Oyingbo to Agbado. Its second phase, involving Ogun State, is expected to run from Agbado to Kajola.

 

The Purple Line, a 60km rail, designed to run through Redemption Camp, Mowe, Long Bridge, Isheri, Toll Gate, Omole, Ogba, Agege, Iyana Ipaja, Isheri Osun, Igando, Iba, Estate, LASU, Okokomaiko and Ojo.

 

Similarly, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State, presented the investment strategy for the Purple Rail Line project at the Africa Investment Forum Market Days on Wednesday.

 

He said, “Today, at the Africa Investment Forum Market Days, I presented our investment strategy for the Purple Rail Line project.

 

“The Purple Rail Line is a 60 km electrified rail system that will include 16 stations and seamlessly integrate with existing metro and bus services to enhance connectivity. It is projected to serve over 300,000 passengers daily, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging a shift from road to rail transportation.

 

“I am pleased to share that we have secured substantial funding commitments, as the Purple Line represents a viable investment opportunity with promising returns. We are excited to move forward with this project.

 

“I also participated in a pre-deal room meeting organized by Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, regarding the Nigeria Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones Program (Nigeria SAPZ).”

Amazon lists Dele Farotimi’s book on Afe Babalola’s corrupt influence on Nigerian judiciary as number one bestseller worldwide

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Amazon lists Dele Farotimi’s book on Afe Babalola’s corrupt influence on Nigerian judiciary as number one bestseller worldwide

Amazon lists Dele Farotimi’s book on Afe Babalola’s corrupt influence on Nigerian judiciary as number one bestseller worldwide

The book saw low sales following its publication until Mr Farotimi was seized by armed policemen in Lagos on Tuesday based on a defamation complaint from the nonagenarian lawyer.

 

Global tech and retail giant Amazon has listed a Nigerian-themed book as its number one bestseller in global politics after its author was arrested on the orders of a controversial lawyer and businessman.

 

Dele Farotimi’s ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’ surged to the first position on Amazon Thursday morning, after trending starting Wednesday afternoon, Peoples Gazette checks showed.

 

The demand for Mr Farotimi’s on global platforms like Amazon followed a similar rush to bookstores across Nigeria, where citizens were curious to learn its content. The global interest followed Mr Farotimi’s arrest on the orders of Afe Babalola, a 93-year-old senior Nigerian lawyer who corruption allegations have long dogged. Nigerian-themed rarely make Amazon’s bestselling chart, and Mr Farotimi’s book beat globally-acclaimed works like ‘Why Nations Fail’.

 

 

Mr Farotimi, a retired lawyer based in Lagos, used the book to criticise corruption in the Nigerian judiciary and specifically namechecked Mr Babalola as one of the top offenders.

 

Mr Babalola “compromised the Supreme Court and the remaining semblance of integrity it might have had,” Mr Farotimi wrote while narrating a case in which the nonagenarian lawyer approached “the Supreme Court and got that court to swim in the sewer of corruption and shameful self-abnegation.”

 

The book, published in July 2024, buttressed a longstanding public suspicion that Mr Babalola was among those befouling the Nigerian judicial by corrupting judges with cash and material bribes to influence judges from lower courts to the Supreme Court.

 

The book saw low sales following its publication until Mr Farotimi was seized by armed policemen in Lagos on Tuesday morning and subsequently transported to Ado Ekiti, about 300 kilometres northeast of the nation’s commercial capital, where Mr Babalola is best known as the largest employer of labour.

 

Following his initial arraignment on Wednesday morning in Ekiti, a judge remanded Mr Farotimi in custody pending a bail hearing on December 10. The police said the book “was likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or disturb the public peace,” according to the charge sheet seen by The Gazette.

 

Mr Babalola has long faced public criticism as one of the senior lawyers notorious for their ability to influence court judgements across the country, eroding public trust in the Nigerian judiciary. He has often denied the allegations, but some judges have lamented how some lawyers were known for their ability to undermine the judicial system by buying judgements. He was not specifically mentioned in the allegations by retired Justice Dattijo Muhammad.

 

The detention has sparked public outrage, with Nigerians demanding Mr Farotimi’s release while raining invective against Mr Babalola, who is widely adjudged the most influential private citizen in Ekiti State.

 

Credit: People’s Gazette

Netflix: ‘They spend 10% on movie, use others to buy cars, houses’ – Basketmouth slams Nollywood producers

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Netflix: ‘They spend 10% on movie, use others to buy cars, houses’ – Basketmouth slams Nollywood producers

Netflix: ‘They spend 10% on movie, use others to buy cars, houses’ – Basketmouth slams Nollywood producers

“When the streaming platforms came in, they gave money to these producers, and I’ll tell you point blank: these producers would take the money—$1.5 million or whatever they give them—and use about 10% of that money to make the movie,” he said.

 

Basketmouth further claimed that streaming platforms, upon discovering these alleged malpractices, decided to pay actors directly to ensure transparency.

 

However, producers reportedly devised a way to continue the fraudulent activity by coercing actors into returning part of their pay.

 

“Even to the point where the streaming platforms stepped in and said, ‘You know what? We are going to be paying the actors directly,’ these guys would still go behind and tell the actors to pay half of that money back to them. You can verify the information anywhere,” he added.

 

The filmmaker argued that the mismanagement of funds has significantly affected the quality of Nollywood films, with some epic productions appearing substandard.

 

“So, when you do that and expect your movie to be 100%, it can’t. It’s impossible. But these guys? They’ll cut, buy houses, buy cars. And that’s why when you see our movies, some of our epic movies look like stage plays,” Basketmouth lamented.

FBI traces Bobo Chicago’s million-dollar fraud to African Shrine; CEO Wale Ogundana loses nightclub licence

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FBI traces Bobo Chicago’s million-dollar fraud to African Shrine; CEO Wale Ogundana loses nightclub licence

The Nevada state government immediately moved against Mr Ogundana and pulled the plug on his licence to operate the nightclub business.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents used to illustrate the story

The Nevada state authorities have revoked the licence of African Shrine run by Wale Ogundana in Las Vegas after the FBI traced proceeds of stolen funds by suspected Nigerian fraudster Bobo Chicago to the entertainment hub.

 

The FBI arrested the notorious fraudster Oluyomi Omobolanle Bombata alias Bobo Chicago in Illinois, Chicago on November 20, but as the agents widened their investigation net and followed the money trail, they discovered that African Shrine had received part of the fraudulent funds.

 

The FBI found that Bobo Chicago, 25, wired $394,000 to the African Shrine in Sin City, roping Mr Ogundana into the mess as the agents opened a criminal investigation to determine the extent of his involvement with the suspect, if any at all.

 

The Nevada state government immediately moved against Mr Ogundana and pulled the plug on his licence to operate the nightclub business, a move that would significantly impact Mr Ogundana’s finances given that Las Vegas is a city predominantly known for nightlife entertainment that includes clubs, casinos, liquor stores, prostitution and so on.

 

Mr Ogundana has been banned from engaging in any entertainment business, nightclub, liquor sales and related activities.

 

Mr Ogundana did not return comments to clarify his involvement—or lack thereof — in Bobo Chicago’s multi-million dollar alleged fraud scheme.

 

The 25-year-old alleged scammer hacked into computers, particularly emails of individuals and corporate organisations, to steal their money. So far, the FBI has tracked $2.8 million stolen between June 2023 and October 2023.

 

The FBI was making efforts to fish out Bobo Chicago’s accomplices and was looking into Mr Ogundana’s activities in Vegas.

 

Bobo Chicago, on his part, said he had no money to hire an attorney to fight the case. Instead, he relied on the services of a public defender provided by Oklahoma state.

 

He was initially arrested in Illinois, Chicago, but got transferred to Oklahoma, where he allegedly committed the crimes and was now facing a five-count charge bordering on fraud.

 

Several Nigerians have been taken in by law enforcement agents for committing fraud in the U.S., including infamous Instagram influencer Ramon Ray ‘Hushpuppi’ Abbas and Mr Woodberry.

 

The duo are serving sentences in Fort Fix correctional facility in New Jersey.

 

Izu Ojukwu’s 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy Rekindles Historic Nostalgia at a Stunning Intimate Event.

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Izu Ojukwu’s 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy Rekindles Historic Nostalgia at a Stunning Intimate Event.

The recent event for 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy was a remarkable celebration of history, cinema, and creativity. Held at Imax Lekki, the event drew an eager crowd that included industry professionals, cast members, dignitaries, and the press, all excited to witness the magic of Nigerian cinema unfolding on the big screen.

As the sequel to the critically acclaimed 76, 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy promises to immerse audiences in Nigeria’s rich cultural history. The event began with a captivating screening, offering an exclusive preview of the film’s trailer.

Attendees were treated to an insightful panel discussion featuring the film’s director, Mr. Izu Ojukwu, along with cast members Ramsey Nouah, Rita Dominic, Adonijah Owiriwa, Soibifaa Dokubo and the crew behind 77 – Mr Olisa Eloka (Writer) and Prince Tonye Princewill. (Executive Producer) They shared their experiences, challenges faced in bringing this significant chapter of Nigerian history to life, and the potential for the film to resonate with global audiences.

Event Highlights:

• A Journey Through History: The trailer offered an exclusive look at the cultural and historical significance of 77, connecting past events to modern-day narratives.

• Exclusive Sneak Peek of 77: Attendees got a first look at 77, further heightening anticipation for its release next year.

• Engaging Conversations: The panel discussion sparked lively conversations about the role of filmmakers in preserving history through storytelling, as well as the importance of historical films in shaping cultural identity.

 

• Celebrating Nigerian Cinema: The event celebrated the growing influence and vibrancy of Nigerian films on the global stage, fostering pride and camaraderie among the attendees.

“We are incredibly proud of the response to this event and the overwhelming excitement surrounding 77,” said Mr. Kene Okwuosa, CEO of Filmhouse Group, FilmHouse Cinemas & FilmOne Entertainment. “77: The FESTAC Conspiracy is a tribute to the resilience of Nigerian filmmakers and the power of cinema to bring our history and stories to life.”

Ladun Awobokun, Chief Content Officer of FilmOne Entertainment, also shared her excitement, stating, “This film is not just a continuation of 76, but a powerful exploration of African identity, culture, and the strength of our stories. We are thrilled to bring this important narrative to audiences across the globe, showcasing the depth and richness of Nigeria’s cultural legacy.”

“As an Executive Producer, my goal for 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy is to reignite the spirit of FESTAC ’77—a celebration of African culture, creativity, and unity. This film is a tribute to our past and a call to embrace our future, telling a story that must never be forgotten.” stated Prince Tonye Princewill.

As anticipation builds for the release of 77, this event reaffirmed the film’s potential to entertain, educate, and inspire audiences around the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Google, Microsoft, TikTok, others pay N2.55 trillion taxes in Nigeria in half-year 2024 – NITDA 

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Google, Microsoft, TikTok, others pay N2.55 trillion taxes in Nigeria in half-year 2024 – NITDA 

Google, Microsoft, TikTok, others pay N2.55 trillion taxes in Nigeria in half-year 2024 – NITDA

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has revealed that foreign digital companies operating in the country, including Google, Microsoft, and TikTok, among others, paid a total of N2.55 trillion in taxes in the first half of this year.

The Agency disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Director of Corporate Communications & Media Relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, quoting data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

 

NITDA specifically, commended Google, Microsoft, X, and TikTok for their compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries.

 

The Code which was issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and NITDA outlines clear guidelines for promoting online safety and managing harmful content.

 

Regulation yielding positive results

While highlighting the impacts of the regulatory framework, NITDA noted that this has also boosted the government’s revenue through the payment of taxes by digital companies.

 

Stunned by thousands of storks flying over the sky in Gia Viễn dike, Ninh Bình – Nếm TV

“Data from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveal that foreign digital companies, including interactive computer service platforms and internet intermediaries (such as social media platforms) operating in Nigeria, contributed over N2.55 trillion (approximately $1.5 billion) in taxes in H1 2024.

 

“This significant increase in revenue underscores the role of robust regulatory frameworks in shaping compliance and driving revenue growth in the digital economy,” NITDA stated.

 

Code compliance report

 

Providing an update on the level of compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries, NITDA said all the digital platforms have been making efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code and the platforms’ community guidelines.

 

The highlight of the overall statistics across all the platforms shows that:

 

The platforms received 4,125,283 (Four million, one hundred and twenty-five thousand, two hundred and eighty-three) registered complaints in 2023.

Content takedown: 65.8 million

Content removed and re-uploaded after appeal by users: 379,433

Closed and deactivated accounts: 12.09 million

While commending the progress made, NITDA emphasizes the need for continued collaboration and innovation to address emerging challenges and ensure a safer and more responsible digital space.

 

What you should know

NITDA in June 2022 announced the Code, which seeks to regulate social media blogs and online publications.

 

Part of the Code dictates that internet platforms including social media must:

 

Act expeditiously upon receiving a notice from a user, or an authorised government agency of the presence of unlawful content on its Platform.

Act quickly to remove, disable, or block access to non-consensual content that exposes a person’s private areas, full or partial nudity, sexual act, deepfake, or revenge porn, where such content is targeted to harass, disrepute, or intimidate an individual.

Disclose the identity of the creator of information on its Platform when directed to do so by a Court order.

Provided that an order of this nature shall apply for the purpose of preventing, detecting, investigating, or prosecuting an offence concerning the sovereignty and integrity of Nigeria, public order, security, diplomatic relationships, felony, incitement of an offence relating to any of the above or in relation to rape, child abuse, or sexually explicit material.

Basketmouth’s ‘A Ghetto Love Story’ grosses N51 million in box office 

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Basketmouth’s ‘A Ghetto Love Story’ grosses N51 million in box office 

Nollywood’s latest sensation, A Ghetto Love Story, produced by comedian-turned-filmmaker Bright Okpocha, popularly known as Basketmouth, has grossed an impressive ₦51 million across cinemas in Nigeria and Ghana.

 

The milestone was revealed by FilmOne Entertainment, the film’s West African distributor, in a celebratory post on Instagram.

The romantic drama garnered N22.3 million in its opening weekend alone, a testament to its widespread appeal and the strong buzz surrounding its release.

 

“A Ghetto Love Story is on top! This movie raked in over 22.3 million Naira at the box office this weekend. Thank you for showing this movie love and support,” FilmOne Entertainment shared in its announcement.

 

About the plot

Inspired by true events, A Ghetto Love Story is a deeply emotional narrative that explores the complexities of love amidst life’s harsh realities. Co-written and co-produced by Victoria ‘Mhiz Vic’ Eze, the film follows the story of Obinna (played by Akah Nnani) and Stella (portrayed by Beverly Osu), two lovers whose relationship is tested by the challenges of their environment.

 

The story is a vivid portrayal of resilience, navigating societal pressures and personal struggles while maintaining hope and love. At its core, the film reflects the universal themes of ambition, perseverance, and the pursuit of happiness in imperfect circumstances.

 

Basketmouth’s transition from comedy to filmmaking has drawn widespread acclaim, with many applauding his ability to craft a story that entertains while delivering poignant social commentary.

 

More insight

Praised for its authentic portrayal of ghetto life, A Ghetto Love Story has quickly established itself as a standout film, resonating with audiences and critics alike. Basketmouth’s foray into filmmaking has drawn commendation for transcending his comedic roots to deliver a thought-provoking and entertaining cinematic experience.

 

The movie also boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring industry veterans and rising stars, including Patience Ozokwor, Wale Ojo, Chimezie Imo, Daniel Etim Effiong, Dorathy Bachor, Efe Irele, Ehiz Okoeguale, Dibor Adaobi, and Femi Jacobs.

The film’s success shows Nollywood’s growing prowess in delivering compelling, commercially successful stories that resonate with diverse audiences. It also marks a promising beginning for Basketmouth as he transitions into filmmaking, showcasing his versatility and storytelling acumen.

Currently showing in cinemas across Nigeria, A Ghetto Love Story continues to attract viewers with its layered narrative, emotional depth, and vibrant portrayal of love and life in the ghetto. This milestone cements the film as a standout production in 2024, highlighting Nollywood’s continued rise on the global cinematic stage.

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