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Nollywood Mourns as Actress Atinuke Kareem Dies After Breast Cancer Battle

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  Actress Atinuke Kareem By Victor Olubiye The Yoruba movie industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of Nollywood actress, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, popularly known as Atinuke Kareem, after a prolonged battle with breast cancer. Kareem reportedly died on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, about four months after she appealed to the public for financial support to help offset the cost of her medical treatment. The actress’ death was announced by the President of the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Owolabi Ajasa, in a post shared on Instagram. Ajasa, while mourning the actress, appreciated individuals who stood by Kareem during her illness through financial contributions, prayers, encouragement and other forms of support. He said the collective efforts of colleagues, friends and members of the public could not ultimately prevent the actress’ death. According to him, the support extended to Kareem and...
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20 Hidden Facts About Lionel Messi’s Football Career Many Fans May Not Know

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Lionel Messi   By Victor Olubiye Lionel Messi has closed one of the greatest chapters in football history. The Argentine superstar announced his retirement from international football on August 31, 2026, bringing an end to a national-team career that began in 2005 and produced a World Cup title, two Copa América trophies, an Olympic gold medal and numerous individual records. Messi leaves Argentina as its record appearance holder with 207 caps and its all-time leading scorer with 125 goals. He also played at six FIFA World Cups and reached three finals. But beyond the trophies, goals and famous moments are several details that even some longtime fans may have forgotten. Here are 20 verified facts about Messi's extraordinary football journey. 1. His Argentina debut lasted less than a minute Messi's senior Argentina debut came against Hungary on August 17, 2005. He came on as a substitute but was sent off only 47 seconds later. It was an extraordinarily dramatic beginning to what...
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TRAGEDY: OSPOLY Student Dies After Reported Stabbing at NANS Convention as Concerned Students Petition Police

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  Ademiju Ayeni, popularly known as “Jago,” a student of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, who was reportedly stabbed during the 2026 NANS JCC Osun State Convention in Osun State. By Victor Olubiye  The reported death of an Osun State Polytechnic, Iree student at the 2026 NANS JCC Osun Convention has taken a new turn, with concerned students petitioning the Osun State Police Command to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The student, Ademiju Ayeni, popularly known as Jago, was reportedly stabbed around the entrance of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Osogbo on Friday, August 28, during the convention. He was reportedly taken away for medical attention after the incident and later died. The circumstances leading to the reported stabbing, the identity of the alleged attacker and the events that followed remain unclear. A group identifying itself as Osun State Concerned Students has now formally asked the police to investigate the matter. In ...
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2027: Primate Ayodele warns Tinubu, APC against relying on money

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  Primate Ayodele By Victor Olubiye Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) against relying heavily on financial resources and political confidence ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Ayodele, in a statement issued through his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, predicted that excessive confidence within the ruling party could become a major obstacle to its electoral ambitions. According to the cleric, the APC could underestimate the level of dissatisfaction among Nigerians if it fails to adequately address economic hardship and insecurity before the election. He argued that the party's financial strength would not necessarily guarantee electoral success, warning that voters could reject the ruling party despite its resources. Ayodele said the APC's perceived confidence could make it overlook the concerns of ordinary Nigerians, particularly those struggling with economic...
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World’s Youngest Monarch, King Oyo of Uganda, Dies at 34

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  Late King Oyo By Victor Olubiye Uganda is mourning the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the traditional ruler of the Tooro Kingdom, who died at the age of 34. King Oyo, who became the Omukama (King) of Tooro at just three years old, was recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s youngest reigning monarch at the time of his ascension to the throne. The monarch ascended the historic throne in September 1995 following the death of his father, King Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III. Due to his young age, the early years of his reign were overseen by regents and members of the royal family. As he grew older, however, King Oyo gradually assumed greater responsibilities and emerged as a prominent cultural leader among the Batooro people. Over the course of his more than three-decade reign, he became associated with efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of the Tooro Kingdom while promoting issues including education, youth empowerment, environmental con...
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2027: Atiku explains why past defeats won’t stop his presidential ambition

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  Atiku Abubakar By Victor Olubiye Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has explained why he remains determined to pursue the Nigerian presidency despite several unsuccessful attempts in previous elections. Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election, said his decision to continue seeking the presidency was consistent with his long political history and his belief that he still has a contribution to make to Nigeria. The former vice president made the remarks during an interview with the BBC published on Friday. Reflecting on his political journey, Atiku said his ambition to participate in democratic politics dates back to his opposition to military rule. He recalled that he attempted to contest for governor on several occasions but was prevented from doing so by the military authorities during Nigeria's transition to democracy. According to him, he contested for governor four times, but was repeatedly disqualified whenever...
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WhatsApp to Begin Charging Businesses Per Message From October 1

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  Whatsapp By Victor Olubiye Businesses using the WhatsApp Business Platform will begin paying for certain messages sent to customers from October 1, 2026, following a new pricing change announced by Meta. The company, which owns WhatsApp, disclosed the adjustment in its WhatsApp Business Platform pricing update, indicating that charges for service messages will resume from October 1. The development will affect businesses that use the WhatsApp Business Platform, formerly known as the WhatsApp Business API, to communicate with customers at scale. Under the revised system, businesses will be charged for certain delivered service messages, including customer-service responses sent within the 24-hour period after a customer initiates a conversation. The change also covers some utility messages sent within the customer-service window, meaning businesses that handle large volumes of customer enquiries and support requests could face additional communication costs. However, the developme...
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Osun@35: From a 1950 Autonomy Struggle to a State Rooted in History, Culture and Heritage

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  By Victor Olubiye Thirty-five years after Osun State emerged from the old Oyo State, the story of its existence remains closely tied to a much older struggle — one shaped by the quest for autonomy, the resilience of its people, the history of Yoruba civilisation and the enduring traditions surrounding Osogbo and the River Osun. Osun State was formally created on August 27, 1991, by the administration of the then Military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, with Osogbo as its capital. The state was carved out of the old Oyo State as part of a wider state-creation exercise that produced 12 new states. But the story of Osun did not begin in 1991. The agitation that eventually culminated in the creation of the state can be traced to 1950, when traditional rulers and citizens in what is now Osun sought greater administrative autonomy from the Ibadan District Native Authority under the colonial administration. According to the Osun State Government's historical account, ...
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Before Cancer Reaches Stage 4: 10 Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore, According to WHO, NCI and ACS

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  Cancer Form By Victor Olubiye Different cancers affect the body in different ways, while some may produce no noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Health authorities therefore stress the importance of paying attention to unusual changes and seeking appropriate medical evaluation rather than trying to diagnose cancer from symptoms alone. The World Health Organization says cancers detected and treated early are more likely to respond to treatment, with a greater chance of survival. It also distinguishes early diagnosis from screening: early diagnosis involves investigating symptoms in people who already have them, while screening aims to identify certain cancers or precancerous changes before symptoms appear. The US National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society similarly identify several changes that can occur with cancer, while warning that most of these symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses or non-cancerous conditions. Here are 10 warning signs that should n...
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FULL LIST: Nigerian Celebrities Who Died Between January and August 2026

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  From veteran actors and filmmakers to musicians and media personalities, Nigeria’s entertainment industry has suffered a string of notable losses in 2026. By Victor Olubiye Nigeria’s entertainment industry has recorded several notable deaths in the first eight months of 2026, with veteran actors, musicians, filmmakers and media personalities among those who have passed away. The losses have cut across different parts of the creative industry, including Yoruba-language Nollywood, indigenous music, television production and the wider media space. Among the latest was veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, whose death on August 23 came just days after the industry mourned several other personalities. From Hassan to Juju musician Saint Janet and filmmakers Dimbo Atiya and Temitope Osoba, the deaths have left colleagues, fans and families mourning across the country. Here are 10 notable Nigerian entertainment personalities whose deaths were reported between January and ...
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Ogogo: 10 Things to Know About the Nollywood Veteran Before His Final Farewell

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  Late Actor Ogogo By Victor Olubiye V eteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has died at the age of 66 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His death was confirmed on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with his daughter, Kira Taiwo, announcing the development during a live video. The actor’s passing came days after his family appealed for medical assistance, revealing that he was battling stage-four cancer. As tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, fans and admirers of his work, here are 10 things to know about the late actor. 1. His full name was Taiwo Hassan The actor was widely known by his stage name, Ogogo, but his full name was Taiwo Hassan. He was born in Ilaro, Ogun State, where he also maintained strong ties to his community. 2. He was 66 when he died Ogogo died on Sunday at the age of 66. His death came after what was described by his family and reports as a prolonged battle with cancer. 3. He began acting decades ago Ogogo was part of the generatio...
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Ogogo’s Final Journey: Veteran Nollywood Actor Set for Burial Monday in Ilaro

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  Late Actor Ogogo By Victor Olubiye Veteran Nollywood actor and screenwriter Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, will be laid to rest on Monday, August 24, 2026, in his hometown of Ilaro, Ogun State. Hassan, aged 66, died at about 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 23, according to a burial announcement made public by fellow veteran actor Jide Kosoko. According to the announcement, the late actor’s remains will be taken to Ilaro, where a lying-in-state ceremony is scheduled to hold ahead of his burial. The ceremony is expected to take place at the Pavillon in Ilaro, with the announcement putting the time at 11 a.m. on Monday. The Ilaro Muslim Community also announced burial prayers for the late actor at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion Ground, with the Chief Imam of Ilaro listed as the officiating authority. Ogogo’s death has triggered an outpouring of grief across the Nigerian entertainment industry. His passing came shortly after members of his family publicly sought medical assistance for...
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101-Year-Old Grandma Explains Why She Turned to Drug Sales in Ogun

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  The arrested 101 year-old woman By Victor Olubiye A 101-year-old woman, identified as Esther Ogunmabo, has told operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) that she began selling cannabis after a fire destroyed her provisions business in Ilisan, Ogun State. Ogunmabo was arrested by NDLEA operatives on Saturday, August 15, after she was allegedly found with 90 grammes of skunk, a strain of cannabis, packaged in small sachets for sale. The centenarian reportedly admitted that she sold the substance to people within the community in small quantities. She explained that the loss of her provisions shop left her without a source of income, prompting her to resort to the illegal trade. According to the NDLEA, Ogunmabo told investigators that one of her daughters, who lives in Lagos, supplied her with the cannabis every four days. The woman allegedly sold the drugs in smaller quantities to customers in the area. Following the arrest, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive ...
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BREAKING: Veteran Nollywood Actor Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’ Dies After Cancer Battle

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  Veteran Actor Taiwo Hassan (Ogogo) By Victor Olubiye Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has died at the age of 66. The actor’s death was announced on Sunday, August 23, 2026, by his daughter, Kira Taiwo, during an Instagram Live session. Multiple Nigerian media outlets have since reported the development. Hassan’s death comes days after his family disclosed that he was battling stage-four cancer and appealed for urgent medical assistance. Earlier in August, his daughters, Lima and Kira Taiwo, had raised concerns over his deteriorating condition and sought help from medical professionals and facilities capable of providing specialised cancer treatment. At the time, the family clarified that it was seeking medical assistance rather than financial donations. The development had generated widespread concern among colleagues, fans and other well-wishers, with several people rallying support for the veteran actor. Ogogo was one of the promine...
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Ronke Oshodi-Oke Reveals She Spent ₦800,000 Monthly on Medication During Health Crisis

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  Ronke Oshodi-Oke By Victor Olubiye Nollywood actress Ronke Oshodi-Oke has opened up about a difficult period in her life when she reportedly spent as much as ₦800,000 every month on medication while battling a serious health challenge. The actress made the disclosure during an interview on African A List, where she reflected on the financial strain of her treatment and the support she received from friends and colleagues. Oshodi-Oke expressed gratitude to Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, and members of the entertainment industry whom she credited with helping her through the difficult period. She described the cost of her medication as overwhelming, noting that maintaining her treatment required hundreds of thousands of naira every month. The actress also recounted an unexpected gesture from fellow actress Sotayo Gaga. According to her, the two had not spoken for about five or six years following a disagreement, but Gaga sent her ₦150,000 after learning that she w...
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Umahi’s Son Rejects Salary, Allowances After Winning Ebonyi Council Chairmanship

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  Osborn Nweze Umahi By Victor Olubiye Osborn Nweze Umahi, the 28-year-old chairman-elect of Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has announced that he will not collect any salary or allowances throughout his tenure, saying his decision is driven by a desire to serve the people rather than make personal financial gains. Umahi, who contested the local government election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), emerged victorious in Saturday’s council poll. Speaking after his victory, the chairman-elect said he intended to donate what would have been his official remuneration to the people of Ohaozara. “I will neither accept any salary nor allowance as Ohaozara LGA chairman,” he said, stressing that his purpose in office was to serve rather than enrich himself. The 28-year-old also outlined plans to prioritise infrastructure development, youth empowerment, economic opportunities and improved public service delivery across the local government. Osborn is the...
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