Nollywood Actor Mofe Duncan Mourns Passing of His Father

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March 14, 2026

A TikTok video by @MofeDuncan and a subsequent official statement have confirmed the passing of his father, who died at the age of 94. The actor shared an emotional tribute, celebrating the long and impactful life of the patriarch, who was a significant influence on his career and personal values.

The news has prompted a wave of condolences from the Nollywood community, with several top stars visiting his social media pages to offer prayers and support. Duncan described his father as a “titan” and expressed gratitude for the nearly a century of wisdom he shared.

This personal loss comes during a busy period for the actor, who has been involved in several high-profile TV projects. He has requested privacy for his family as they begin funeral arrangements, though he thanked his fans for the overwhelming show of love.

The passing marks the end of an era for the Duncan family, but the actor emphasized that his father’s legacy of integrity and service would continue through his children and grandchildren.

* “Nollywood actor Mofe Duncan announces death of father at 94.” — Leadership Nigeria (Newspaper)

* “Stars mourn with Mofe Duncan as he loses elderly father.” — Legit NG (News Site)

Echotitbits take: Mofe Duncan is one of Nollywood’s most beloved “gentle giants,” and the loss of a parent is always a heavy blow, regardless of age. Expect a star-studded funeral in the coming weeks, as the industry often rallies together during these moments of transition for its members.

Source: Leadership Nigeria — https://leadership.ng/nollywood-actor-mofe-duncan-announces-death-of-father-at-94/ March 13, 2026

Photo Credit: Leadership Nigeria

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Bukayo Saka Rumored for ‘No. 10’ Role as Arsenal/England Tactical Shift Looms

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Bob Echols’s

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March 14, 2026

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According to The Guardian, football analysts and insiders are buzzing over the possibility of Bukayo Saka switching to the “No. 10” playmaker role for both club and country this weekend. The potential tactical shift is aimed at accommodating rising stars like Noni Madueke in the wider positions while maximizing Saka’s creative vision.

The report highlights that England and Arsenal coaching staffs have been experimenting with Saka in a more central, influential role. This move mirrors the evolution of other elite wingers who transitioned into central playmakers as they matured into the “engine room” of their teams.

Saka, who has become the face of Nigerian-British excellence in the Premier League, continues to be a focal point of discussion in both Lagos and London. Fans are eager to see if this shift will increase his goal-contribution output as the title race intensifies.

The discussion comes ahead of a crucial weekend of Premier League action, where tactical flexibility will be key for teams fighting for European spots. Saka’s adaptability remains his greatest asset, and a successful stint in the middle could redefine his career trajectory.

* “Bukayo Saka could switch to No 10 to accommodate Madueke.” — The Guardian (UK News)

* “Saka central? Tactical dilemmas loom for Chelsea and Arsenal this weekend.” — Sky Sports (Sports News)

Echotitbits take: Moving Saka to the No. 10 spot is a high-risk, high-reward play. It allows him to dictate the tempo of the game, much like Jay-Jay Okocha once did, but it also takes him away from the one-on-one isolations where he is most lethal. If this works, Saka becomes an even more expensive asset in the global market.

Source: BBC — https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/ce8wyg2827eo March 13, 2026

Photo Credit: BBC

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Ayra Starr Riles Up Fans by Naming Her ‘Afrobeats Big Three’

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March 14, 2026

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In a post shared by @AyraStarr via her social media, the “Sabi Girl” has sparked a massive debate across the Nigerian music landscape by naming her personal “Big Three.” Ayra Starr listed Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, and Rema as the definitive trio currently leading the genre.

Noticeably absent from her list were industry titans Davido and Burna Boy, which has led to intense “stan war” activity on X (formerly Twitter). Fans of the omitted artists have been vocal about their displeasure, while others defend her right to highlight her own influences and peers.

Ayra’s inclusion of Tiwa Savage is being hailed as a much-needed acknowledgment of female contributions to the global Afrobeats explosion. Similarly, her nod to Rema reinforces the “Mavin” dominance and the shift toward the younger generation taking the reins of the industry.

This moment comes as Ayra Starr enjoys a career-high, with multiple Grammy nominations and a growing international discography. Her willingness to take a stand on the controversial “Big Three” topic shows a new level of confidence as she establishes herself as a leader in her own right.

* “Ayra Starr picks Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Rema as her ‘Afrobeats big three’.” — Leadership News (Nigerian Newspaper)

* “Mavin star Ayra Starr sparks debate with her Big 3 list including Rema and Tiwa.” — Pulse Nigeria (Media Outlet)

Echotitbits take: Ayra Starr is strategically positioning herself. By naming Tiwa Savage, she is signaling that the era of male-only “Big Three” lists is over. By naming Rema, she is backing her teammate. While Davido and Burna Boy fans are livid, this is a brilliant PR move that keeps her name at the center of the industry’s most popular debate.

Source: The Guardian — https://guardian.ng/life/ayra-starr-reveals-her-big-three-in-afrobeats/ March 13, 2026

Photo Credit: The Guardian

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Don Toliver Kicks Off Billboard’s ‘The Stage’ at SXSW 2026 Tonight

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March 14, 2026

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According to Billboard, American R&B and Hip-Hop star Don Toliver is set to headline the opening night of “The Stage at SXSW” in Austin, Texas, tonight. The event, held at the Moody Amphitheater, marks a major cultural moment where music and tech converge during the iconic South by Southwest festival.

Toliver’s performance is the first in a three-night series curated by Billboard, showcasing the current heavyweights of the US urban music scene. Fans are expecting a high-energy set featuring his signature psychedelic trap sounds and tracks from his latest projects.

The SXSW performance comes at a time when Toliver has become a central figure in Hip-Hop culture, bridging the gap between underground aesthetics and mainstream chart success. His presence at the festival also highlights the increasing integration of “immersive world-building” in live Hip-Hop performances.

Security for the event and the broader SXSW festival has been heightened following recent FBI alerts regarding high-profile public gatherings in 2026. Despite the precautions, the venue is expected to be at full capacity with a mix of industry insiders and fans.

* “Billboard is returning to SXSW to present three electric nights… starting with Don Toliver on Friday, March 13.” — SXSW Official (Festival Site)

* “Don Toliver to headline Billboard’s SXSW stage as festival kicks off in Austin.” — Variety (Entertainment News)

Echotitbits take: Don Toliver is currently the “it-boy” for the intersection of fashion, music, and lifestyle. His SXSW set will likely set the tone for summer festival circuits. Watch for a surprise guest appearance—possibly Travis Scott or Kali Uchis—as Toliver rarely performs on a stage this big without some “Cactus Jack” flair.

Source: BillBoard — https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/don-toliver-billboard-house-sxsw-interview-1236199182/ March 13, 2026

Photo Credit: BillBoard

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Tonto Dikeh Faces ₦200 Million Legal Battle Over Controversial School ‘Exorcism’

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March 14, 2026

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In a post shared by @Legit.ng, Nollywood actress and politician Tonto Dikeh has reportedly been hit with a ₦200 million lawsuit following a viral video involving a student. The controversy stems from a “deliverance” or “exorcism” session Dikeh allegedly performed on a young girl at a school, which sparked immediate backlash online.

The actress recently shared follow-up content showing her returning to the school to fulfill promises made to the student and supporting the child’s father. However, the legal representatives of the affected parties are reportedly unimpressed by the public display of philanthropy, citing a breach of privacy and psychological trauma.

Lawyers involved in the suit have listed several demands, including the massive financial compensation. Despite the legal pressure, Dikeh appears to be maintaining her stance of “doing God’s work,” though the incident has reignited debates about the ethics of filming minors during sensitive spiritual or personal moments for social media content.

The case has divided public opinion in Nigeria, with some praising Dikeh for her charitable intentions while others criticize the lack of professional boundaries. It serves as a stern reminder of the growing legal scrutiny surrounding celebrity “savior” content on digital platforms.

* “Tonto Dikeh dragged to court over alleged ‘exorcism’ of schoolgirl, lawyer lists demands.” — Legit NG (News Site)

* “Tonto Dikeh lands in ₦200m lawsuit over school deliverance video.” — Naija News (Blog)

Echotitbits take: Tonto Dikeh is no stranger to controversy, but a ₦200m lawsuit is a serious escalation. While she often uses her platform for advocacy, this case highlights a dangerous trend of “poverty porn” and the exploitation of vulnerable people for viral engagement. If this goes to trial, it could set a major precedent for digital privacy laws in Nigeria.

Source: The Whistler — https://thewhistler.ng/tonto-dikeh-faces-n200m-lawsuit-over-alleged-exorcism-of-schoolgirl/ March 13, 2026

Photo Credit: Legit.ng

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Tems and Jorja Smith Set to Co-Headline London’s All Points East 2026

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March 13, 2026

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According to DIY Magazine, Nigerian global superstar Tems is slated to co-headline the final day of the All Points East festival in London alongside British R&B sensation Jorja Smith. The announcement marks a significant milestone for African music, as Tems continues to command top-billing status on major international stages.

The duo will lead a diverse lineup of artists, closing out the festival at Victoria Park. This collaboration highlights the deep musical ties between Lagos and London, merging soulful Afrobeats with UK contemporary R&B for one of the summer’s most anticipated live events.

Tickets for the high-profile show officially went on sale today, Friday, March 13, 2026. Fans are expected to flock to the event, which has become a staple for showcasing premium global talent in the heart of the United Kingdom.

This booking reflects Tems’ meteoric rise from a local Lagos favorite to a definitive pillar of global pop culture. Her ability to anchor a major UK festival alongside a peer like Jorja Smith cements her status as a primary cultural ambassador for Nigeria’s creative industry.

* “Tickets for Tems & Jorja Smith’s co-headline show on sale 10 am today.” — Stereoboard (Digital Outlet)
* “Jorja Smith and Tems to co-headline final day of All Points East 2026.” — DIY Magazine (Music Publication)

Echotitbits take: This is more than just a concert; it is a victory lap for Tems. By co-headlining a major London festival, she is proving that the “Big Three” conversation in Nigeria is expanding to include powerhouse women. Expect this performance to lead to a joint studio project between the two, as their vocal chemistry is a fan-favorite demand.

Source: BillBoard — https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/jorja-smith-tems-all-points-east-2026-co-headline-show-1236195929/ March 13, 2026

Photo Credit: BillBoard

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CBN Governor Assures Economic Resilience Amid Global Geopolitical Shocks

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March 13, 2026

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Figures cited by Vanguard show that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) remains confident in the country’s macroeconomic stability despite the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Governor Olayemi Cardoso stated that the ongoing structural reforms, including the bank recapitalization and FX unification, have provided a “buffer” against external shocks.

The Governor highlighted that the foreign exchange market is now more liquid and efficient than in previous years, allowing market participants to transact without heavy reliance on central bank interventions. He noted that the elimination of the FX backlog has restored investor confidence, which is crucial during times of global risk aversion.

However, Cardoso acknowledged that higher energy prices and supply chain disruptions remain potential risks. The apex bank is reportedly monitoring these variables closely to adjust monetary policy if inflation begins to outpace current projections.

ThisDay and Channels TV corroborated the Governor’s statement. ThisDay reported that “Cardoso’s optimistic outlook comes as the Naira remains steady at 1,398/$,” while Channels TV noted that “foreign investors are closely watching Nigeria’s response to the $100 oil price ceiling.”

Echotitbits take: Cardoso is playing the “stability” card to keep investors from fleeing. The real test is the Naira’s behavior over the next 48 hours; if it holds steady while other emerging market currencies dip, the reforms are indeed working.

Source: Vanguard – vanguardngr.com/2026/03/cbn-led-banks-recapitalisation-hastens-fgs-quest-for-1trn-economy/, March 13, 2026

Photo credits: Vanguard

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Military Foils Major ISWAP Encirclement Attempt in Yobe State

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March 13, 2026

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In a report by The Guardian, troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) successfully repelled a coordinated assault by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Goniri, Yobe State. The tactical victory resulted in the neutralization of over 20 insurgents, including a prominent senior commander identified as Abu Yusu.

The encounter began when surveillance assets detected the terrorists attempting to encircle the military base from multiple directions. Supported by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, the ground troops engaged the attackers in a fierce firefight that lasted several hours, ultimately forcing the survivors to retreat into the Timbuktu Triangle.

Following the clearance operation, the military recovered a significant cache of weaponry, including machine guns, AK-47 rifles, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The success of this operation has been hailed as a major blow to the insurgents’ leadership structure in the region.

The Nation and Tribune also confirmed the details of the encounter. The Nation noted that “the neutralization of Abu Yusu is a strategic victory for the sector,” while Tribune reported that “military reinforcements have been deployed to the Goniri axis to prevent reprisal attacks.”

Echotitbits take: The use of surveillance assets and air support shows an improving synergy in the military’s counter-insurgency tactics. Watch the Timbuktu Triangle area; a major mop-up operation usually follows the death of a high-ranking commander.

Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/troops-foil-coordinated-attacks-kill-20-terrorists-in-yobe/, March 13, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

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Federal Government Completes Solar Power Installation for 371 Primary Health Centres

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March 13, 2026

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Reporting by Premium Times indicates that the Federal Government, in partnership with Gavi and UNICEF, has officially solarized 371 Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) across 16 states and the FCT. This initiative is designed to solve the perennial problem of vaccine spoilage due to erratic power supply in rural and underserved communities.

The project, which was handed over in a ceremony on Thursday, ensures that cold-chain management for life-saving immunizations remains intact regardless of the national grid’s performance. By providing 24/7 renewable energy, these health centers can now offer extended services, including night-time deliveries and emergency care, which were previously impossible.

Health officials believe this marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s primary healthcare strategy, moving away from total dependence on fossil fuels. The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) is expected to oversee the maintenance of these facilities to ensure the longevity of the solar infrastructure.

The Punch and Leadership have validated this story. The Punch reports that “the project handover marks a milestone in Nigeria’s quest for universal health coverage,” while Leadership quoted a UNICEF representative stating, “reliable energy is the backbone of a resilient healthcare system.”

Echotitbits take: This is a rare “win-win” for both the health and energy sectors. The real challenge will be the maintenance of these solar panels in remote areas where security and technical expertise are often lacking.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/gavi-unicef-hand-over-371-solar-powered-phcs-to-fg/, March 13, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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FCCPC Issues Stern Warning to Airlines Over Alleged Festive Fare Manipulation

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March 13, 2026

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In an update published by Premium Times, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has concluded preliminary investigations into domestic airlines for “sharp increases” in ticket prices. The regulator warned that carriers found guilty of price-gouging during the recent travel peak may be compelled to issue direct refunds to affected passengers.

The commission’s Executive Vice Chairman, Tunji Bello, stated that the investigation followed a flood of consumer complaints regarding the sudden and uniform hike in airfares. The FCCPC is now scrutinizing the data to determine if there was a clandestine agreement among operators to fix prices, which would constitute a violation of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act.

Airlines have countered these allegations by citing the rising cost of aviation fuel (Jet A1) and the high maintenance costs associated with foreign exchange fluctuations. However, the regulator maintains that such costs do not justify the “predatory pricing” patterns observed during the 2025/2026 festive window.

The Nation and Channels TV also reported on this regulatory move. The Nation quoted an FCCPC official saying, “We will not allow a few players to monopolize the skies at the expense of the average Nigerian,” while Channels TV noted that “at least five major domestic carriers are currently under the regulatory microscope for fare collusion.”

Echotitbits take: This is a bold move for consumer rights, but it risks a standoff with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON). Watch to see if the FCCPC actually enforces refunds—it would set a massive precedent for other sectors like telecoms.

Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/863742-fccpc-may-sanction-airlines-over-festive-fare-hike.html, March 13, 2026

Photo credit: Premium Times

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