Category: Trending Now

  • Snoop Dogg Mourns the Tragic Loss of 10-Month-Old Granddaughter

    Snoop Dogg Mourns the Tragic Loss of 10-Month-Old Granddaughter

    A TikTok video by @enews and reporting by Punch Newspapers confirm the heartbreaking passing of Snoop Dogg’s granddaughter, Codi, who was only ten months old. The family has shared their grief publicly, requesting privacy during this difficult time as they navigate the loss of the young infant.

    The Hip-Hop mogul and his family have received an outpouring of support from the global music community, including many Nigerian artists who have collaborated with Snoop over the years. Details regarding the cause of death have not been fully disclosed, as the Broadus family focuses on mourning.

    Snoop Dogg, a central figure in US Hip-Hop culture, has often shared glimpses of his life as a grandfather on social media, making this news particularly poignant for his millions of followers. The tragedy has cast a somber mood over the “History to Hip Hop” celebrations currently taking place in the US for Black History Month.

    Tributes have flooded in from peers like Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, and various Afrobeats stars, highlighting Snoop’s influence and the respect he commands across international borders. The family has asked for prayers instead of flowers as they prepare for private funeral arrangements.

    * Punch Newspapers (Official Website): “Snoop Dogg’s granddaughter, Codi, has tragically passed away at ten months old.”

    * TheCable (Official Website): “Snoop Dogg’s granddaughter dies at ten months… family is in mourning.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Snoop Dogg has successfully transitioned from a “gangsta rapper” to a beloved “global uncle.” Seeing him deal with such a personal tragedy humanizes a larger-than-life figure. In the fast-paced world of celebrity gossip, this serves as a sobering reminder of the real lives behind the headlines. Expect a temporary social media hiatus from the rapper as he supports his son.

    Source: Vanguard — vanguardngr.com/2026/02/snoop-dogg-mourns-tragic-loss-of-10-month-old-granddaughter/ February 1, 2026

    Photo Credit:  Vanguard

     

  • Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr Lead Nigerian Charge at 68th Grammy Awards

    Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr Lead Nigerian Charge at 68th Grammy Awards

    In a post shared by BellaNaija, the Nigerian music industry is on high alert as the 68th Annual Grammy Awards kick off tonight at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Burna Boy leads the Nigerian contingent with two nominations, including Best African Music Performance for his hit “Love” and Best Global Music Album for No Sign of Weakness.

    Davido also makes a significant return to the nomination list for his collaboration “With You” featuring Omah Lay. Meanwhile, “Sabi Girl” Ayra Starr has secured a nomination for “Gimme Dat” featuring Wizkid, a track that dominated airwaves throughout the past year. The nominations represent a peak for the “Afrobeats to the World” movement.

    The atmosphere in Los Angeles is described as electric but tense, as the ceremony takes place amidst broader social unrest in the United States. Recording Academy President Harvey Mason Jr. has expressed hope that the music—particularly the global sounds from Africa—will act as a “healing” force for the audience.

    Fans across Nigeria are organizing viewing parties, hoping for a clean sweep that would solidify 2026 as the most successful year in the history of Nigerian music. With Fela Kuti already receiving a lifetime achievement honor, the stakes for the active nominees have never been higher.

    * Punch Newspapers (Official Website): “Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, Tyla battle for Grammy glory… Sunday, February 1, 2026.”

    * ThisDay Live (Official Website): “Wizkid and Burna Boy finally brought home the Grammy glory… competition intensified.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The “African Music” category is the real battleground this year. If Burna Boy wins again, he moves into legendary “untouchable” status. If Ayra Starr or Davido wins, it signals a shift in power towards the newer commercial sounds. Regardless of the outcome, the sheer volume of Nigerian presence in LA confirms that Afrobeats is now a global landlord.

    Source: ThisDay  — https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/02/01/nigerias-eyes-on-the-grammys/ February 1, 2026

    Photo Credit:  ThisDay

  • Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo Sparks Debate Over Gospel-Themed Tattoo

    Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo Sparks Debate Over Gospel-Themed Tattoo

    According to The Nation Nigeria, popular relationship coach and cleric Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo has stirred a heated online conversation after revealing a tattoo of “John 3:16” on his arm. The move has triggered a wave of reactions from the Nigerian Christian community, with many questioning the biblical permissibility of tattoos for a minister of the gospel.

    In his defense, Pastor Okonkwo stated that the tattoo has already served as a unique tool for evangelism, claiming it helped him reach millions of people online within just 24 hours. He argued that the ink serves as a conversation starter, allowing him to preach the gospel to demographics that might otherwise avoid traditional religious settings.

    The controversy has seen prominent figures and “netizens” take sides, with some praising his “modern” approach to soul-winning and others criticizing it as a compromise of traditional values. This debate reflects the ongoing tension within the Nigerian church regarding the balance between cultural relevance and scriptural tradition.

    Religious scholars and fellow pastors have also weighed in, leading to a viral discourse on TikTok and Instagram. Despite the backlash, Okonkwo remains steadfast, focusing on the “millions” he claims have been impacted by the message inscribed on his skin.

    * Punch Newspapers (Official Website): “Gospel reached millions in 24 hours through my tattoo – Lagos pastor… defends his John 3:16 tattoo.”

    * Legit.ng (Official Website): “Netizens react as Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo gets tattoo… states it helped preach the gospel.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This is a classic “clash of generations” moment in the Nigerian church. Okonkwo is betting on “attractional” ministry, where the medium changes to keep the message alive. While it might alienate conservative elders, it clearly resonates with Gen Z and Millennials who value authenticity over optics. Expect more “cool pastors” to follow suit if the backlash doesn’t result in formal disciplinary action.

    Source: The Punch  — https://punchng.com/lagos-pastor-kingsley-okonkwos-tattoo-sets-tongues-wagging/  February 1, 2026

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Kunle Afolayan and Funke Akindele Clash Over Movie Marketing “Dancing” Tactics

    Kunle Afolayan and Funke Akindele Clash Over Movie Marketing “Dancing” Tactics

    A post shared by Legit.ng details a burgeoning friction between Nollywood heavyweights Kunle Afolayan and Funke Akindele regarding their promotional styles. The drama began when Afolayan remarked in a video that he is not interested in “chasing Box Office records” or performing TikTok dances to sell his films, a comment many perceived as a direct shade toward Akindele.

    Akindele, known for her high-energy social media campaigns and “dancing” marketing strategies that have led to record-breaking box office hits like A Tribe Called Judah, reportedly fired back online. The exchange has divided fans, with some defending Afolayan’s “pure art” approach and others hailing Akindele as a marketing genius who understands the modern audience.

    Afolayan later clarified his comments, stating that while he respects her success, his personal brand focuses on a different cinematic experience. However, the tension remains palpable, as Akindele allegedly called the director to express her displeasure over what she felt was an elitist dismissal of her hard work.

    This controversy highlights a growing philosophical rift in Nollywood between the “Old School” auteur directors and the “New Wave” commercial juggernauts. While both have contributed significantly to the industry’s growth, their public disagreement has become the talk of the Nigerian film community.

    * Punch Newspapers (Official Website): “Funke Akindele slams critics over ‘dancing’ marketing style… Afolayan says he’ll never dance to promote movies.”

    * The Nation Nigeria (Official Website): “Funke Akindele fumes as Kunle Afolayan clarifies cinema comment… ‘Funke Akindele called to yell at me’.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This isn’t just a petty celebrity feud; it’s a debate on the future of African cinema. Akindele has proven that “populist” marketing sells tickets, while Afolayan maintains the prestige of the “festival” film. The friction is natural as Nollywood matures, but both need to be careful—alienating each other’s fanbases helps no one in an industry still fighting for global shelf space.

    Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/funke-akindele-kunle-afolayan-faceoff-over-film-promotion-tactics/ February 1, 2026

    Photo Credits: The Punch

  • Super Eagles Star Ademola Lookman Finalizes €40 Million Move to Atlético Madrid

    Super Eagles Star Ademola Lookman Finalizes €40 Million Move to Atlético Madrid

    In a report by Yahoo Sports, Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has successfully reached a final agreement to join Spanish giants Atlético Madrid. The deal, valued at approximately €40 million, involves a €35 million fixed fee with an additional €5 million in performance-based bonuses, marking one of the most significant winter transfers for a Nigerian player.

    Lookman, who famously scored a hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final for Atalanta, reportedly snubbed a lucrative offer from Turkish club Fenerbahçe to play under Diego Simeone. The 28-year-old winger is scheduled to undergo his medical examinations in Madrid within the next few hours to finalize the long-term contract.

    The move is seen as a strategic bolster for Atlético Madrid’s attacking line as they look to close the gap on Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga. Lookman’s departure from Italy ends a successful stint where he became one of the most feared attackers in Serie A, consistently delivering high-level performances for both club and country.

    Logistical steps are already underway for the “Super Eagles” talisman to travel to Spain. Fans in Nigeria are closely monitoring the development, as Lookman follows in the footsteps of Nigerian legends who have graced the Spanish top flight, such as Finidi George and Mutiu Adepoju.

    * Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano on X): “Lookman has definitively chosen the Madrid club, despite strong offers from other teams… logistical steps are already underway.”

    * The Whistler (Official Website): “The agreement between Atalanta and Atlético Madrid consists of a €35m fixed fee, with an additional €5m in performance-related add-ons.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Lookman moving to a “gritty” defensive-minded team like Atlético is a fascinating stylistic match. Simeone prizes work rate and clinical finishing, two things Lookman has in abundance. This move elevates his profile significantly ahead of the next AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, making him arguably the most high-profile Super Eagle in a top-three European league right now.

    Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/atletico-agree-e40m-deal-for-lookman-as-fenerbahce-atalanta-talks-stall/ February 1, 2026

    Photo Credit:  The Punch

  • Afrobeat Legend Fela Kuti Receives Historic Posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

    Afrobeat Legend Fela Kuti Receives Historic Posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

    According to TheCable, the family of the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has officially accepted a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammy Special Merit Awards. The ceremony, held just ahead of the main 68th Grammy event, marks a monumental milestone as Fela becomes the first African artist to ever receive this specific distinction from the Recording Academy.

    The honor recognizes Fela’s unparalleled contribution to global music and his role in founding the Afrobeat genre, which continues to influence contemporary stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid. His children and grandchildren were present to receive the golden gramophone, cementing the Kuti legacy on the world’s most prestigious musical stage.

    This recognition comes at a time when African music is seeing record-breaking representation at the Grammys. The Academy highlighted Fela’s activism and musical innovation as key reasons for the honor, placing him alongside icons like Whitney Houston and Cher in this year’s class of honorees.

    The win has sparked widespread celebration across Nigerian social media, with fans noting that the “Abami Eda” has finally received his due from an institution that many felt had overlooked him for decades. The timing of the award serves as a powerful prologue to the main ceremony, where several Nigerian artists are vying for wins in the newly established African music categories.

    * Punch Newspapers (Official Website): “Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti is posthumously honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, the first for an African artist, at the 2026 ceremony.”

    * The Nation Online (Official Website): “He’ll be celebrated alongside icons like Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher, and Paul Simon at the Special Merit Awards Ceremony.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This is more than just a trophy; it is a formal validation of Nigeria’s cultural export at its source. By honoring Fela, the Recording Academy is finally acknowledging that the current global Afrobeats explosion isn’t a trend, but a movement built on a half-century-old foundation. Expect this to fuel the “Grammy fever” in Nigeria, potentially influencing how the Academy views African legacy acts in the future.

    Source: Al-Jazeera — https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/2/1/fela-kuti-becomes-first-african-to-get-grammys-lifetime-achievement-award February 1, 2026

    Photo Credit: Al-Jazeera

  • Mercy Aigbe Sparks Social Media Frenzy with On-Stage Kiss

    Mercy Aigbe Sparks Social Media Frenzy with On-Stage Kiss

    A report by The Punch reveals that Nollywood actress Mercy Aigbe has become the center of a social media debate following an on-stage kiss that raised eyebrows among fans. The incident, which occurred during a high-profile movie premiere event, has divided opinions, with some calling it a harmless promotional stunt and others questioning its appropriateness given her marital status. Aigbe is currently promoting her role in the new film Everything Is New Again.

    Legit.ng confirmed the viral moment, quoting social media reactions: “Mercy Aigbe knows how to keep the cameras on her, but this might be crossing the line for some.” Naija News also noted: “The actress’s on-stage antics have once again put her at the top of trending topics.”

    Echotitbits take:

    In the “Funke Akindele era” of aggressive marketing, Mercy Aigbe is clearly using the “shock and awe” tactic to drive interest in her latest project. Whether it’s scripted or spontaneous, it’s working—her name is everywhere. Expect this to translate into high opening-weekend numbers for her film.

    Source: Legit.ng — https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/celebrities/1694767-mercy-aigbe-kisses-young-man-movie-premiere-video-leaves-talking/ January 31, 2026

    Photo Credit: Legit.ng

     

  • Nicki Minaj Sparks Fan Debate Over “Trump Gold Card” Post

    Nicki Minaj Sparks Fan Debate Over “Trump Gold Card” Post

    According to TMZ, rap queen Nicki Minaj has caused a rift within her “Barbz” fanbase after flaunting a $1 million “Trump Gold Card” on social media. The post, which Minaj claimed was a gift, has sparked intense political debate on TikTok and X, with some fans defending her right to associate with whoever she wants, while others are calling for a boycott. The controversy comes as Minaj continues to dominate the charts with her latest singles.

    TVC News validated the story, quoting: “Nicki Minaj thanks Trump for the ‘free’ gold card… sparking online reactions.” The Source also reported on the fallout, stating: “Trump is breaking up the Barbz as fans argue over the rapper’s recent political leanings.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Nicki Minaj has always been a “disruptor,” but leaning into political iconography is a risky move in a highly polarized US climate. However, her core fanbase is notoriously loyal; this “controversy” likely won’t hurt her streaming numbers and might actually keep her name in the headlines longer than a standard album promo would.

    Source: New Republic — https://newrepublic.com/post/205861/nicki-minaj-donald-trump-gold-card-citizenship January 30, 2026

    Photo Credit: New Republic

     

  • Maxey and Embiid Combine for 77 Points in 76ers Thriller

    Maxey and Embiid Combine for 77 Points in 76ers Thriller

    According to ABS-CBN Sports, the Philadelphia 76ers edged out a 113-111 victory over the Sacramento Kings, led by a massive 77-point combined effort from Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Maxey, 25, scored 40 points for the fifth time this season and delivered the game-winning layup with just five seconds remaining. The win keeps the 76ers in the hunt for the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

    The Times of India highlighted Maxey’s rising stardom, quoting: “Maxey… has frequently outshone his more established teammates this year.” NBA.com verified the stats, noting: “Cameroonian veteran Embiid poured in 37 points but chose to trust his younger teammate for the decisive final play.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The “Embiid-Maxey” era is officially in full swing. By passing the ball to Maxey for the final shot, Embiid is signaling a changing of the guard—or at least a partnership of equals. Maxey is no longer just a “third option”; he is a legitimate All-NBA talent who can carry a franchise.

    Source: NBA — https://www.nba.com/watch/video/maxey-embiid-combine-for-77-points?plsrc=nba&game-highlights=0022500680 January 31, 2026

    Photo Credit: NBA

     

  • Tammy Abraham Returns to Premier League with Aston Villa Move

    Tammy Abraham Returns to Premier League with Aston Villa Move

    In a post shared by The Punch, Aston Villa has officially completed the signing of Tammy Abraham from Besiktas. The striker returns to the club where he previously enjoyed a successful loan spell, providing Unai Emery with much-needed firepower as Villa fights for a top-four finish. The deal was part of a flurry of late January activity for the Birmingham-based club, which also saw Douglas Luiz return on loan from Juventus.

    NBC Sports confirmed the “In” list for Villa, quoting: “Aston Villa strengthened their ranks with Tammy Abraham joining from Besiktas.” The Guardian’s sports desk reported: “Emery’s tactical acumen is being backed by the board with proven Premier League talent like Abraham.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Abraham is a “safe” bet for Villa. He knows the club, the league, and he has a point to prove after his stint in Turkey. With Villa emerging as genuine title contenders or at least Champions League locks, his goals could be the difference-maker in the final stretch of the season.

    Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/latest-deals-premier-league-clubs-busy-in-january-transfer-window/ January 31, 2026

    Photo Credit: The Punch