According to a statement released by the NBA, the league has fined the Utah Jazz $500,000 and the Indiana Pacers $100,000 for “management of their rosters.” The fines come amid growing scrutiny over teams allegedly losing games on purpose to improve draft positions.
The Jazz were specifically penalized for benching stars Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. during crucial fourth-quarter moments in recent games against the Magic and Heat. The league ruled that these players were physically able to play but were held out to influence the game’s outcome.
League officials warned that “tanking” undermines the integrity of the competition. The Pacers’ fine was related to similar roster management issues that the league deemed “detrimental” to the NBA’s brand during the lead-up to the All-Star break.
This move shows Commissioner Adam Silver is getting tougher on the “race to the bottom” for draft picks. It might discourage teams from resting stars, potentially improving the quality of late-season games but frustrating front offices looking for long-term rebuilds.
* ABS-CBN News (Website): “The NBA took aim at ‘tanking’ on Thursday, fining the Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers.”
* ESPN (Sports Desk): “League statement confirms fines for conduct detrimental to the league regarding player availability.”
Source: OrlandoSentinel — https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2026/02/12/tankers-beware-jazz-fined-500000-pacers-100000-by-nba-for-player-participation-policy-breach/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: NBA
Author: Bob Echols’s
-
NBA Slaps Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers with Fines for “Tanking”
-
Barcelona Relaunches Pursuit of Victor Osimhen for Summer Transfer
A report by PUNCH Sports Extra states that FC Barcelona has officially renewed its interest in Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen. The Catalan giants reportedly view the 27-year-old as the ideal long-term replacement for veteran Robert Lewandowski.
Despite interest from Juventus and Atletico Madrid, Barcelona is said to be preparing a significant bid. Galatasaray, where Osimhen is currently playing, has reportedly set a starting price of around €80 million for the forward, who has scored 15 goals in 21 games this season.
However, club insiders in Turkey suggest that Galatasaray is in no hurry to sell their star asset. Negotiations are expected to be complex, given Osimhen’s long-term contract and his current high standing within the Turkish club’s project.
Osimhen’s move to a top-three European league seems inevitable given his current form. For Barcelona, securing him would be a statement of intent for their rebuild, while for Nigerian fans, it would mean seeing their top star return to one of the world’s most prestigious football stages.
* Daily Post Nigeria (Website): “Galatasaray Insider… dismissed rumours suggesting Victor Osimhen might leave the Turkish champions.”
* Haberlisin (Turkish Media): “Barcelona believe his blend of pace and ruthless finishing fits perfectly with their next phase.”
Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/barca-relaunch-move-for-e80m-osimhen/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: Daily Post -
Jill Scott Makes Triumphant Return with First Soul Album in a Decade
In an announcement shared by @missjillscott on Instagram, the three-time Grammy winner revealed that her highly anticipated album To Whom This May Concern is officially dropping today, February 13. This marks her first full-length project in 11 years.
The 19-track album features a rich blend of neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop, with collaborations from artists like Ab-Soul, J.I.D., and Tierra Whack. Scott described the project as a “heartfelt reclamation of community” and thanked fans for their extreme patience.
Produced by legends such as DJ Premier and Andre Harris, the album arrives just in time for Valentine’s Day. Lead singles like “Beautiful People” have already set a soulful, vulnerable tone for the record, which explores themes of resilience and human connection.
Jill Scott’s return is a massive moment for Soul and R&B culture. Given the decade-long hiatus, the album is expected to dominate adult contemporary charts. It also reinforces the longevity of “Neo-Soul” icons in an era dominated by shorter, viral-driven tracks.
* JubileeCast (Website): “Jill Scott returns with a new soulful and spirit-driven album 11 years in the making.”
* REVOLT TV (Website): “The cultural icon is marking a triumphant return… featuring vocal contributions from Ab-Soul and J.I.D.”
Source: JubileeCast — https://www.jubileecast.com/articles/34681/20260212/jill-scott-returns-with-a-new-soulful-and-spirit-driven-album-11-years-in-the-making.htm February 12, 2026 —
Photo Credit: JubileeCast -
2Baba and Natasha Celebrate First Child with Heartfelt Church Dedication
In a post shared by Olori Supergal, legendary musician Innocent “2Baba” Idibia and his wife, Natasha Osawaru, were seen celebrating the church dedication of their first child together. The ceremony was an intimate affair attended by close family and friends.
Photos circulating online show the couple in high spirits, marking a joyful milestone in their marriage. This development comes as a positive headline for 2Baba, who has recently been open about the challenges and regrets associated with raising children from different mothers.
Fans have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, praising the couple for their resilience and the growth of their family. The dedication follows months of private celebrations since the child’s birth was first teased on social media.
This event offers a rare glimpse into 2Baba’s private life amidst the ongoing music industry debates. It serves to humanize the icon and focuses the narrative on his family growth, which he has recently described as his most important priority.
* TheNet.ng (Website): “Nigerian music icon 2Baba and his wife, Natasha Osawaru, have dedicated their first child together in a heartfelt church ceremony.”
* Naija News (Website): “Internet buzz as photo of private baby dedication of 2Baba and Natasha trends.”
Source: Daily Post — https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/12/2baba-wife-natasha-celebrate-child-dedication/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: Daily Post -
Uzor Arukwe Vows Legal Action Over Defamatory Infidelity Claims
A report by The Punch reveals that Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has threatened to take legal action against a social media user who accused him of having an affair with colleague BamBam. The actor expressed deep frustration over the “malicious” rumors targeting his integrity.
The controversy erupted after an X (formerly Twitter) user alleged that Arukwe was a contributing factor to a supposed crisis in BamBam’s marriage to Teddy A. Arukwe swiftly denied the claims, describing them as entirely baseless and harmful to his professional reputation.
The actor stated that he intends to make a “scapegoat” of the individual responsible for the post to deter others from spreading unverified gossip. The incident has once again brought the issue of social media accountability and celebrity privacy to the forefront of Nollywood discourse.
Arukwe’s aggressive legal stance is a growing trend among Nigerian celebrities who are no longer ignoring “trolls.” If he follows through, it could set a precedent for how Nollywood stars handle digital defamation, which often disrupts their personal lives and brand partnerships.
* Vanguard Nigeria (Website): “Uzor Arukwe threatens lawsuit over links to BamBam’s marriage crisis.”
* Adedeji Adeyanju (TheNet.ng): “The actor has threatened to punish a social media user over false and defamatory claims.”
Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/nollywood-actor-uzor-arukwe-threatens-legal-action-over-affair-rumours/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: The Punch -
Funke Akindele Expands Business Empire with Global FinTech Partnership
According to The Nation Online, Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has officially secured a major ambassadorial deal with MonieWorld, a product under the Moniepoint Inc. umbrella. The deal is aimed at bridging the financial gap for Nigerians living in the diaspora.
Akindele, who recently shattered cinema records with her latest film, expressed her excitement about the partnership, noting that the brand’s values of hard work and reliability align with her personal journey. She emphasized that the collaboration is about empowering Nigerians to build lives regardless of their location.
The partnership marks a significant business move for the actress, further solidifying her status as a commercial magnet and a cultural icon. It also highlights the growing trend of FinTech companies leveraging Nollywood’s massive reach to connect with global audiences.
This move reinforces Akindele’s “A-list” status not just in entertainment, but as a formidable entrepreneur. As the face of a diaspora-focused financial tool, her influence will likely drive high adoption rates among Nigerians abroad who already consume her content.
* Legit.ng (Website): “Funke Akindele bags fresh ambassadorial deal with MonieWorld… uniting two forces committed to enabling progress.”
* Moniepoint Official (Press Statement): “We are thrilled to welcome Funke Akindele to the family… her story of resilience inspires millions.”
Source: The Nation — https://thenationonlineng.net/funke-akindele-bags-fresh-ambassadorial-deal-with-monieworld/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: The Nation -
Wizkid Fires Back at 2Baba Over Burna Boy Ranking Comments
In a post shared by @wizkidayo on Snapchat, the Afrobeats superstar expressed strong disapproval of veteran singer 2Baba’s recent assessment of the “Big 3” hierarchy. Wizkid dismissed the veteran’s opinion, suggesting that 2Baba should focus on his own domestic affairs rather than ranking younger artists.
The friction began after 2Baba appeared on the Mic On Podcast, where he stated that while he enjoys music from Wizkid and Davido, he believes Burna Boy is currently operating on a superior global level. 2Baba described Burna Boy as being at the “top of the chain” in the world right now.
Responding to the viral clip, Wizkid labeled the “African Queen” crooner an “old man” and signaled that he would not be letting such comments slide in 2026. This exchange has reignited intense debates among fans regarding the global dominance and legacy of Nigeria’s top musical exports.
The tension highlights the competitive nature of the Afrobeats scene as it continues to expand globally. While 2Baba likely intended to offer an objective industry perspective, Wizkid’s sharp retort suggests a thinning patience for comparisons that overlook his own record-breaking achievements. Watch for whether Burna Boy or Davido weighs in on this rare public clash between a pioneer and a modern titan.
* PM News Nigeria (Website): “Wizkid has criticised veteran singer 2Baba for saying Burna Boy is ahead of him… describing 2Baba as an ‘old man’.”
* Channels TV (Website): “2Baba said Burna Boy currently operates on a different musical level… I think Burna is on top of the game right now.”
Source: PM News Nigeria — https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/02/12/wizkid-slams-2baba-for-ranking-burna-boy-above-him/#google_vignette February 12, 2026
Photo Credit: Daily Post
-
Banking Sector Crackdown: CBN Imposes Stiff Fines for Cheque Violations
Figures cited by Daily Post show that the Central Bank of Nigeria has introduced a new penalty regime for banks and printers found guilty of cheque-related violations. Under the new guidelines, infractions can now attract fines of up to N20 million, a significant increase from previous sanctions.
Reporting by Daily Post indicates that the move is part of a broader effort to strengthen the integrity of the Nigerian payment system. The CBN is particularly concerned with the quality of cheque leaflets and the security features embedded in them, which are vital for preventing fraud and ensuring smooth interbank transactions.
The apex bank warned that it would not hesitate to blacklist printers who fail to meet the required standards. Banks are also required to conduct more rigorous due diligence on their cheque clearing processes to protect customers from the rising wave of sophisticated financial crimes.
Vanguard and ThisDay have verified the issuance of these new guidelines. Vanguard noted that “the policy aims to restore confidence in paper-based transactions,” while ThisDay quoted a banking executive stating, “these fines will force institutions to prioritize security over cost-cutting.”
Echotitbits take: While the world is moving toward digital payments, cheques remain a staple for corporate transactions in Nigeria. This crackdown is a necessary evil to ensure the “old school” payment method doesn’t become the weakest link in the financial chain. Expect banks to pass on some of these compliance costs to corporate clients.
Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2025/01/14/cbn-sanctions-banks-for-failing-to-dispense-cash-via-atms/, February 13, 2026
Photo credit: Channels TV
-
International Tensions Rise as China Rejects Mining-Linked Terror Funding Claims
According to Premium Times, the Chinese government has officially rejected allegations made by US lawmakers regarding illegal mining and terrorism financing in Nigeria. The rebuttal comes after a report suggested that some Chinese-owned mining operations in Northern Nigeria were providing financial support to insurgent groups to secure access to mineral-rich lands.
In an update published by the same outlet, the Chinese embassy in Abuja described the claims as “baseless” and “politically motivated.” They maintained that Chinese companies operate within the legal framework of Nigerian law and contribute significantly to the country’s industrial growth and infrastructure development.
The dispute has placed the Nigerian government in a delicate diplomatic position, as both the US and China are key economic and security partners. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has vowed to intensify its crackdown on all forms of illegal mining, regardless of the nationality of the firms involved, to protect national security.
The Nation and Daily Post reported on the brewing diplomatic row. The Nation quoted a diplomatic source saying, “Nigeria must verify these claims independently to avoid being a pawn in global power play,” while Daily Post noted that “security agencies have already arrested several foreign nationals in connection with illicit mining.”
Echotitbits take: The “resource curse” is taking a new dimension in Nigeria with these international allegations. If proven, the link between mining and terror could lead to heavy sanctions. Nigeria needs to urgently formalize its artisanal mining sector to prevent it from becoming a slush fund for insurgents.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/china-denies-us-claims-of-illegal-mining-terror-funding-in-nigeria/, February 13, 2026
Photo credit: Vanguard
-
Afrobeat Royalty: 2Baba and Natasha Dedicate First Child in Church Ceremony
In a colorful update published by The Punch, legendary Nigerian musician 2Baba (Innocent Idibia) and his wife, Natasha, held a high-profile church dedication for their first child together. The ceremony, which took place in Lagos, was attended by a galaxy of stars from the entertainment industry, making it the most talked-about social event of the week.
Reporting by The Punch indicates that the couple, who have kept much of their private life out of the headlines recently, shared emotional moments during the service. 2Baba expressed gratitude for the new addition to his family, while Natasha’s presence highlighted the couple’s unity amidst long-standing public interest in their relationship.
Videos from the event have since gone viral on social media, showing the couple dressed in elegant traditional attire. The dedication marks a joyful milestone for the singer, who remains one of the most influential figures in African music history.
Vanguard and Channels TV also covered the celebrity event. Vanguard described the ceremony as “a beautiful blend of faith and glitz,” while Channels TV reported that “the event briefly shut down social media as fans sent in thousands of congratulatory messages.”
Echotitbits take: 2Baba’s ability to remain relevant and beloved after decades in the industry is a testament to his brand. This personal milestone provides a positive narrative for the veteran artist, reminding fans of the human side of the “African Queen” crooner.
Source: Legit.ng – https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/celebrities/1696676-joy-2baba-wife-natasha-osawaru-dedicate-son-church-god/, February 13, 2026
Photo credit: Legit.ng