Laide Bakare Breaks Silence on Relationship Rumors with Odobodobo Motolani

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March 9, 2026

A TikTok video by @pmnewsnigeria highlights actress Laide Bakare’s response to the viral photos of her and colleague Odobodobo Motolani. The pair was seen in matching traditional attire, leading fans to speculate about a secret wedding or a new romance. Bakare addressed the comments, neither fully confirming nor denying a romantic entanglement but emphasizing her right to happiness and her professional closeness with the actor.

Leadership News confirmed the development, quoting Bakare: “People will always talk, but I am focused on my joy and my projects.” Bolanle Media also reported that the photos might be from an upcoming movie set, noting that “Nollywood stars often use such ‘leaked’ moments to build buzz for new releases.”

Echotitbits take:

The line between marketing and reality in Nollywood is notoriously thin. Given Bakare’s history of being open with her life, this feels more like a strategic promo for a new film than a surprise wedding. However, the chemistry in the photos is undeniable, keeping the “gossip mill” running efficiently for her brand.

Source: PM News Nigeria — https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/03/07/laide-bakare-breaks-silence-on-affair-with-odobodobo-motolani/ March 8, 2026

Image Credit: PM News Nigeria

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Manchester City Maintain Dominance with Five-Goal Thrashing of Burnley

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Bob Echols’s

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March 9, 2026

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In a report by The Guardian, Manchester City showcased their clinical superiority with a 5-1 victory over Burnley at the Etihad. Erling Haaland continued his monstrous form with a late brace, while Matheus Nunes and Jeremy Doku were instrumental in dismantling the Burnley defense. Despite a spirited 70 minutes from Scott Parker’s side, City’s “high gear” was too much to handle, further cementing their status at the top of the table.

The Official Manchester City Website celebrated the win, stating “Haaland was the architect, converting a ferocious Nunes volley into a landmark victory.” BBC Sport also validated the result, quoting Pep Guardiola: “Erling is an important figure for us, but the team spirit in the second half was the key.”

Echotitbits take:

City’s ability to “turn it on” in the final 20 minutes is what separates them from the rest of the league. While the 5-1 scoreline might seem harsh on Burnley, it reflects City’s sheer depth and Haaland’s inevitability. They look unstoppable as the season enters the home stretch.

Source: The Guardian — https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/sep/27/manchester-city-burnley-premier-league-match-report September 27, 2025 (Refreshed March 8, 2026)

Photo Credit: The Guardian

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Giannis Antetokounmpo Sidelined as Bucks Struggle in Seed Race

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March 9, 2026

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According to Sports Illustrated, the Milwaukee Bucks faced a major setback today as two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo was ruled out for their crucial matchup against the Orlando Magic. Giannis, who historically dominates the Magic, is dealing with a lingering injury that leaves the Bucks fighting to maintain their position for the No. 10 seed. This absence puts immense pressure on the rest of the roster to pull off an upset against a surging Orlando team.

ESPN confirmed the injury report, stating “Giannis’s absence is a significant blow to a Milwaukee team already struggling with consistency.” Meanwhile, Bleacher Report noted that “the Magic are currently tied for the Southeast Division lead, making this a high-stakes game for both franchises.”

Echotitbits take:

Milwaukee’s reliance on Giannis is being tested at the worst possible time. With the playoffs approaching, their struggle to stay in the play-in conversation suggests that the championship window for this specific roster may be closing. Watch for trade rumors surrounding their supporting cast if they fail to make a deep run.

Source: Sports Illustrated — https://www.si.com/nba/magic/onsi/news/orlando-magic-dodge-giannis-in-milwaukee-as-two-time-mvp-ruled-out-01kk7g88tsp3 March 8, 2026

Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated

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International Women’s Day: AGN Pushes for Equal Pay and Safety in Nollywood

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Bob Echols’s

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March 9, 2026

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In a report by PM News Nigeria, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has used the occasion of International Women’s Day 2026 to call for more substantial leadership roles and better safety protocols for women in the film industry. The guild emphasized that while women like Funke Akindele and Mo Abudu have reached the pinnacle of production, the average female actor still faces systemic hurdles, including pay disparity and workplace harassment.

Supporting this, The Guardian Nigeria quoted guild representatives saying, “We must move beyond tokenism and ensure women have the same creative and financial autonomy as their male peers.” Additionally, Vanguard News reported that “new industry-wide guidelines are being drafted to protect young actresses from predatory practices on movie sets.”
Echotitbits take:

While Nollywood is often praised for its female-led box office successes, the “grassroots” of the industry remains precarious for many. This push by the AGN is a necessary step toward institutionalizing the progress made by top-tier producers. Watch for the implementation of these new “Safety on Set” charters in upcoming big-budget productions.

Source: PM News Nigeria — https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/03/08/iwd-obasanjo-seeks-greater-justice-for-women/ March 8, 2026

Photo Credit: PM News Nigeria

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Jayson Tatum Returns as Celtics Dominate Cavaliers in Eastern Showdown

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March 9, 2026

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A report by CBS Sports details a masterclass performance by the Boston Celtics, who defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 109-98. The game was highlighted by Jayson Tatum’s second appearance since returning from a torn right Achilles, contributing 20 points in 27 minutes. However, it was Jaylen Brown who steered the ship with 23 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists, securing the season sweep over their Eastern Conference rivals.

The Associated Press (AP) confirmed the victory, noting that “Brown and Tatum combined to build a massive 26-point lead in the third quarter.” Additionally, NBA.com’s official box score highlighted the defensive effort, stating “the Celtics’ perimeter defense held Cleveland to a dismal shooting percentage from behind the arc.”

Echotitbits take:

Tatum’s return is ahead of schedule and looks remarkably smooth, which is a terrifying prospect for the rest of the NBA. If he regains his pre-injury explosiveness by the playoffs, the Celtics are the undisputed favorites for the title. The chemistry between Brown and Tatum remains the league’s gold standard for wing duos.

Source: CBS Sports — https://www.cbssports.com/nba/gametracker/recap/NBA_20260308_BOS@CLE/ March 8, 2026

Photo Credit: CBS Sports

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Nigeria to Evacuate 1,000 Citizens from Iran Amid Middle East Tensions

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March 8, 2026

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According to The Punch reporting, the Nigerian government has initiated plans to evacuate approximately 1,000 Nigerians currently residing in Iran. The majority of these citizens are students pursuing higher education. The decision comes as regional tensions in the Middle East escalate toward a potential full-scale conflict.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with the Nigerian embassy in Tehran to facilitate the safe return of those who wish to leave. The government cited the “safety and security of our nationals” as the primary reason for the emergency measure. Families of the students have been urged to remain calm while logistics are finalized.

Channels TV confirmed the evacuation plan, reporting that “the first flight is expected within 72 hours.” Premium Times also covered the story, quoting a ministry official who said, “we are closely monitoring the situation in the Persian Gulf.”

Echotitbits take: Diaspora safety is a recurring challenge for Nigeria. The speed and efficiency of this evacuation will be a major test for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the newly reformed NiDCOM (Nigerians in Diaspora Commission).

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/fg-plans-evacuation-of-1000-nigerians-in-iran/, March 8, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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Primate Ayodele Commissions Mosque Named After Tinubu’s Mother

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March 8, 2026

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Reporting by The Nation indicates that Primate Elijah Ayodele, the leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has built and commissioned a mosque in honor of the late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, mother of President Bola Tinubu. The cleric stated that the project was a “divine instruction” aimed at fostering interfaith harmony in Nigeria.

Ayodele, a prominent Christian leader, emphasized that the gesture should serve as a lesson in religious tolerance. He noted that while many religious leaders promote division, he chose to use his resources to build a bridge between the two faiths. The mosque is intended to be a center for “inter-religious activities” and unity.

Daily Post validated the story, quoting the Primate as saying, “God told me to honor Tinubu’s mother.” Channels TV also covered the event, noting that the gesture was “unprecedented for a Christian leader of his stature.”

Echotitbits take: In a country often divided by religious lines, this is a powerful symbolic move. It also subtly aligns the Primate with the Presidency, which could have political undertones as we head toward the next election cycle.

Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/why-i-named-mosque-after-tinubus-mother-primate-ayodele/, March 8, 2026

Photo credit: The Nation

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Dangote Petrol Price Hike Triggers Nationwide Outcry as Pump Prices Exceed N1,000

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Bob Echols’s

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March 8, 2026

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In an update published by The Punch, Nigerians are expressing deep frustration following another increase in the price of petrol from the Dangote Refinery, which has pushed the cost to ₦995 per litre at the gantry. This move has caused retail pump prices to surge past ₦1,000 in several states, further straining the disposable income of citizens.

The price hike is attributed to the withdrawal of certain subsidies and the fluctuating cost of crude oil. Transporters have already begun increasing fares, leading to a ripple effect on the price of food and basic services. Many Nigerians had hoped that local refining would lead to a significant drop in fuel costs, but the reality has proven different.

Tribune reported on the “groans” of citizens, noting that “the cost of living has become unbearable for the average family.” ThisDay also covered the economic fallout, quoting a local distributor who said, “we are now selling at a loss just to move stock.”

Echotitbits take: The fuel price benchmark of ₦1,000 is a psychological and economic threshold. This development could spark civil society protests or labor union action if the government doesn’t intervene with a more robust palliatives framework.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/petrol-may-hit-n1000-litre-as-dangote-hikes-price/, March 8, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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FG Implements Partial Closure of Kara Bridge for Critical Maintenance

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March 8, 2026

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Figures cited by Channels TV show that the Federal Government will commence the repair of damaged expansion joints on the Kara Bridge, a vital link on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, starting March 10. The Federal Controller of Works in Ogun State, Olayiwola Komolafe, announced that the maintenance work is scheduled to last for two weeks, necessitating a partial closure of the outbound lanes.

The repair work, directed by Works Minister Dave Umahi, is aimed at ensuring the long-term structural integrity of the bridge. Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes such as the Shimawa or Mosinmi corridors to bypass the expected gridlock. The ministry emphasized that while the closure is inconvenient, it is essential for public safety.

The Punch confirmed the closure, reporting that traffic management teams have been “fully mobilized to the site” to minimize delays. Leadership also featured the story, quoting the Works Ministry’s advisory that “a shorter route may not necessarily be the fastest” during the construction window.

Echotitbits take: Kara Bridge is a notorious bottleneck. A two-week closure will likely cause significant disruptions for commuters and logistics companies. Watch for how well the FRSC manages the resulting traffic chaos and whether the 14-day timeline is strictly met.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/fg-announces-traffic-diversion-ahead-of-kara-bridge-repairs/, March 8, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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Army Chief Vows Total Annihilation of Boko Haram and ISWAP Following Borno Attacks

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March 8, 2026

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In an update published by Daily Post, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has issued a stern warning to insurgent groups following a series of daring raids in Borno State. Speaking after a high-level operational assessment in Maiduguri, Shaibu assured the public that the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, is intensifying its offensive to “eliminate the remaining fighters” of Boko Haram and ISWAP.

The recent spike in violence has seen attacks on military formations and civilian communities in Ngoshe, Konduga, and Marte. The Army Chief’s visit was intended to address the logistical needs of frontline troops and recalibrate the military’s response to these guerrilla-style ambushes. He emphasized that the military remains undeterred by the recent setbacks.

The security situation was further corroborated by The Nation, which quoted Vice President Kashim Shettima stating the government “will not tolerate any sanctuary” for terrorists. Vanguard also reported on the displacement caused by the attacks, noting that “over 300 villagers remain missing” following the Ngoshe abduction.

Echotitbits take: The resurgence of attacks in the North-East suggests that the insurgents are testing the limits of the new military leadership. Expect a massive kinetic operation in the coming weeks as the Army seeks to reclaim the initiative and rescue abducted civilians.

Source: Al-Jazeera – https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/26/at-least-20-nigerian-soldiers-killed-in-attack-on-remote-army-base, March 8, 2026

Photo credit: Al-Jazeera

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