Falz and Yemi Alade Shine at 9th AFRIMA Awards in Lagos

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January 25, 2026

The 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) held in Lagos reportedly delivered a strong Nigerian showing, with Falz doubling as host and performer while Yemi Alade won Best Soundtrack for her work on the Iyanu animated series.

Punch Newspapers noted that the event celebrated African music diversity with surprise wins for emerging acts. Premium Times also highlighted the significance of Yemi Alade’s soundtrack win as evidence of growing synergy between Nigerian music and global animation platforms.

Echotitbits take: AFRIMA remains a key platform for legitimizing African music on the continent’s own terms. Falz’s host-performer versatility and Yemi Alade’s move into major soundtrack work reflect a new phase where top Nigerian stars are building multimedia brands beyond radio hits.
Source: TheNet.ng – https://thenet.ng/falz-shines-as-host-performer-9th-afrima-awards-lagos/ 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Nigeria Info FM

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Police Apprehend Prime Suspect in Death of Street-Pop Star Destiny Boy

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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The Ogun State Police Command has reportedly recorded a breakthrough in the investigation into the death of fast-rising Fuji-pop singer Afeez Adeshina, better known as Destiny Boy. A prime suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the death of the 21-year-old artist, a protégé of Fuji legend Pasuma known for viral covers of Afrobeats hits.

Vanguard News reported that the suspect is being interrogated to determine motive, while Daily Post cited a police statement indicating that evidence is being gathered to ensure justice for the family and fans.

Echotitbits take: Destiny Boy bridged traditional Fuji and modern street-pop, and his death has deeply shaken the Nigerian music community. While the arrest offers a path toward closure, the rumors of strange illness and foul play around his final days suggest a larger story the investigation must now clarify.
Source: BBC – https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd0ykeze3xvo 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: BBC

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NBA Postpones Minnesota Matchup Following Fatal Shooting by Federal Agents

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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The NBA postponed Saturday night’s Golden State Warriors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game after a fatal shooting involving federal agents in Minneapolis, citing public safety concerns and escalating unrest in the city.

Rolling Out reported that the victim was a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse, a detail that has intensified local grief and anger. The New York Times also described heightened tensions in Minneapolis, and the league rescheduled the matchup for Sunday evening.

Echotitbits take: This is a sobering reminder of how professional sports can intersect with social justice and civil tension in the United States. The NBA has a track record of prioritizing community safety and player sentiment in moments like these; expect a heavy atmosphere and possible pre-game demonstrations when the teams finally take the court.
Source: Sport.Yahoo – https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/real-reason-why-nba-postponed-120000021.html 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Sport.Yahoo

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Sunday Igboho Set for Hero’s Return to Nigeria Following Exile

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has reportedly been cleared to return to Nigeria from self-exile. The breakthrough follows interventions from prominent traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, who are said to have negotiated his safe reintegration without fear of prosecution.

Punch Newspapers quoted Igboho’s spokesperson, Olayomi Koiki, saying he is a free man and would soon return to Ibadan. The Cable also reported that authorities are no longer seeking his arrest, signalling a major shift from the tension that forced him into exile.

Echotitbits take: Igboho’s return is a major cultural and political development for the South-West. While his homecoming is being framed as a move toward peace, it will be telling whether his presence reignites Yoruba Nation advocacy or evolves into a more traditional role under the guidance of the monarchs who helped secure his freedom.
Source: MatazaRising – https://matazarising.com/2026/01/25/sunday-igboho-set-to-fully-return-to-nigeria-from-self-exile/#google_vignette 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: MatazaRising

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Derrick Rose’s Son P.J. Melts Hearts at Chicago Jersey Retirement

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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A deeply emotional moment captivated the NBA world as Chicago Bulls legend Derrick Rose had his iconic jersey retired, but it was his young son, P.J. Rose, who stole the spotlight. The ceremony, which celebrated the youngest MVP in league history, saw P.J. sitting on the bench and participating in the festivities, echoing viral moments from his father’s peak playing days in Chicago.

The Chicago Tribune described the night as a full-circle moment for the franchise and the city, while ESPN reported that fans were moved as the younger Rose embraced his father beneath the rafters where the No. 1 jersey now permanently hangs.

Echotitbits take: This marks the end of an era for a generation of NBA fans who witnessed Rose’s meteoric rise and injury-plagued resilience. P.J. Rose has been a staple of NBA “cute culture” since he was a toddler, and seeing him as a young man at this retirement ceremony solidifies the Rose legacy as one of the most beloved in Chicago sports history.
Source: Parade – https://parade.com/news/derrick-roses-son-london-melts-hearts-at-jersey-retirement-ceremony 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Parade

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Kannywood Struggles to Balance Tradition and Modernity in 2026

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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Kannywood—Northern Nigeria’s Hausa-language film industry—is reportedly navigating growing tension between strict censorship expectations and the demands of modern, global audiences, alongside a funding gap relative to Southern Nollywood.

Industry dynamics: Filmmakers are increasingly exploring streaming distribution to expand reach, though challenges remain around monetization and structured distribution networks.

Generational shift: Younger actors and creatives are pushing for more diverse storylines to compete internationally while retaining cultural authenticity.

Echotitbits take: Kannywood’s sustainability likely hinges on digitization and diaspora market strategy. Watch for more cross-regional collaborations and co-productions to bridge funding and distribution constraints.

Source: France24 – https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260106-nigeria-s-kannywood-tiptoes-between-censor-boards-and-modernity (January 25, 2026)

France24 2026-01-25

Photo Credit: France24

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FRSC Targets 10% Reduction in Ekiti Road Accidents for 2026

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ekiti State has set a target to reduce road traffic crashes by at least 10% in 2026, citing data-driven operations and increased advocacy among commercial drivers.

Planned measures: The command plans intensified patrols on major routes, technology-enabled speed monitoring, and collaboration with communities on lighting and signage maintenance.

Constraints: Drivers are raising concerns about the condition of some federal roads, arguing that infrastructure deficits remain a major contributor to crashes.

Echotitbits take: Enforcement and data matter, but road engineering matters more. Without repairs on dangerous corridors, speed enforcement can only deliver partial gains on fatalities.

Source: EkitiPodium- https://ekitipodium.com/2026/01/20/we-recorded-substantial-reduction-in-auto-crashes-in-2025-frsc/ (January 25, 2026)

EkitiPodium 2026-01-25

Photo Credit: EkitiPodium

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Mystery and Tragedy: Newlywed Arrested for Poisoning Husband in Jigawa

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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The Jigawa State Police Command has detained a newlywed woman following the death of her husband, reportedly linked to rat poison. The suspect allegedly cited dissatisfaction with a marriage she claimed was forced upon her.

Case details: The incident occurred in Gauza village, Jahun Local Government Area. Police say the deceased became ill after eating a meal prepared by his wife. The body has reportedly been released to the family for burial while investigation continues.

Wider concern: The case is renewing attention on the intersection of forced unions, domestic violence, and social pressures.

Echotitbits take: This tragedy underscores ongoing tensions between customary practices and individual rights. Expect renewed debate on safeguards against coerced marriages and the role of community structures in prevention.

Source: Facebook – https://web.facebook.com/100064638796212/posts/the-jigawa-state-police-command-has-arrested-a-newly-married-woman-in-connection/1325392859625328/?_rdc=1&_rdr# (January 25, 2026)

Facebook 2026-01-25

Photo Credit: Facebook

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Proposed ‘Anim State’ Gains Momentum Among South-East Leaders

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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Traditional rulers and political leaders in the South-East are reportedly rallying behind the creation of “Anim State” (an Anambra–Imo-derived proposal) as a path to addressing perceived regional marginalization and balancing the number of states across zones.

Advocacy: Prominent voices are urging various state-creation movements (Anioma, Aba, Adada, and others) to align behind a unified proposal to improve chances of meeting constitutional requirements.

Political context: Supporters argue the initiative could help reduce political tensions and refocus attention on development, though critics question fiscal viability in the current climate.

Echotitbits take: State creation is constitutionally demanding and politically complex. Even if momentum grows, economic viability and revenue sustainability will be the decisive hurdles, especially under tight federal allocations.

Source: Daily Post – https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/25/additional-state-will-bring-development-to-south-east-not-division-imo-monarch/ (January 25, 2026)

Daily Post 2026-01-25

Photo Credit: Daily Post

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Security Alert: Terrorists Deploy Booby-Trapped Corpses in Niger State

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 25, 2026

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Reports indicate terrorists killed six people in Niger State and planted improvised explosive devices (IEDs) under the victims’ bodies in Borgu Local Government Area—apparently targeting those attempting recovery.

Response: A bomb expert reportedly neutralized the devices. Local leaders are appealing for immediate reinforcement and heightened security presence in the affected communities.

Why it matters: The use of booby traps suggests a more lethal phase of insurgent tactics, increasing risk to first responders, civilians, and security forces.

Echotitbits take: This is a tactical escalation consistent with guerrilla playbooks seen in other conflict zones. Expect heightened pressure on security agencies to expand IED detection, training, and community intelligence networks in rural corridors.

Source: Facebook/ITV – https://web.facebook.com/itvradiong/posts/combating-terrorism-troops-kill-scores-of-terrorists-in-adamawa-borno-statesin-a/1290902703071605/?_rdc=1&_rdr# (January 25, 2026)

Facebook/ITV 2026-01-25

Photo Credit: Facebook/ITV

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