Burna Boy and VDM Visit Kirikiri Prison to Free Inmates

By

-

January 5, 2026

A TikTok video by @verydarkman_official has captured the moment global superstar Burna Boy and controversial activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) visited the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre. During the visit, Burna Boy reportedly donated $145,000 to facilitate the release of inmates held for minor offenses.

The collaboration between the ‘African Giant’ and the social media critic has shocked many, given their vastly different public personas. The visit aims to draw attention to the plight of prisoners in the Nigerian correctional system and the need for judicial reform regarding petty crimes.

Crowds gathered at the prison gates as the duo arrived, with Burna Boy seen interacting with the facility’s officials. This move marks a significant shift for the singer toward more direct social activism in 2026.

As documented by The Nation Nigeria, ‘Burna Boy and VDM’s visit to Kirikiri has elicited massive talk online, particularly regarding the singer’s $145k donation.’ Vanguard Nigeria further supported the development, quoting an official: ‘The donation will be used strictly for the legal fees and fines of those eligible for release.’

Echotitbits take: This is a masterclass in PR and social impact. By partnering with VDM, Burna Boy taps into a grassroots audience that values ‘street’ credibility and direct action. It positions him as a local benefactor.

Source: Tribune — https://tribuneonlineng.com/burna-boy-verydarkman-visit-kirikiri-set-to-pay-fines-for-inmates/ January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: Tribune

Inline1

Kim Kardashian Gifts North West $106 Carat Diamond Skull Necklace

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

According to Complex, Kim Kardashian has once again pushed the boundaries of luxury gifting by presenting her eldest daughter, North West, with a 106-carat diamond skull necklace for the holidays. The piece, valued in the millions, has sparked intense debate online regarding the ‘extravagance’ of celebrity parenting.

North West was seen wearing the massive piece in a series of social media posts. The necklace features intricate diamond-encrusted skull motifs, reflecting the edgy, gothic-chic aesthetic that North has been gravitating toward in her public appearances and TikTok content.

Critics have labeled the gift as ‘out of touch,’ while supporters of the Kardashian-West clan argue that it is a savvy investment and a reflection of the family’s unique brand. This move further solidifies Kim’s strategy of positioning North as the next major mogul.

Validation comes from Page Six, which reported: ‘Kim Kardashian’s latest gift to North is a jaw-dropping 106-carat diamond piece that has the internet divided.’ Similarly, E! Online confirmed the story, quoting a jewelry expert: ‘The craftsmanship of the skull necklace is unparalleled.’

Echotitbits take: This isn’t just a gift; it’s a branding statement. North West is being groomed for a level of fame that surpasses even her parents, and these high-value items serve as milestones in her public persona.

Source: People — https://people.com/kim-kardashian-gifts-north-west-skull-necklace-with-over-100-diamonds-christmas-11878548 January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: People

Inline1

Wizkid and Davido’s Cousin Spotted Together Amidst Family Feud

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

In a video shared by @mazitundeednut on Instagram, Davido’s cousin was seen partying in a popular Lagos nightclub alongside Wizkid, just months after a heated social media exchange between the two music titans. The footage, which has since gone viral, shows a surprisingly cordial atmosphere, leading fans to speculate about a potential ‘cold war’ thaw.

The sighting is particularly notable given the public insults traded between Wizkid and Davido’s family members late last year. Social media sleuths have been analyzing every frame of the clip, questioning whether this indicates a move toward reconciliation between the ‘Big 3′ stars or if the family ties are simply independent of the music industry beef.

While neither Davido nor Wizkid has commented directly on the outing, the clip has dominated conversations on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. Some fans argue that the ’30BG’ and ‘Wizkid FC’ fanbases should take a cue from the stars’ associates and embrace peace.

As reported by Legit NG, ‘Davido’s cousin was spotted enjoying time with Wizkid in a club months after the singer insulted her father, sparking massive reactions.’ Adding to the buzz, Naija News noted: ‘The viral video has raised eyebrows as fans question the dynamics of the ongoing rivalry.’

Echotitbits take: In the Nigerian music industry, optics are everything. While this could be a simple case of people being in the same space, the timing suggests a tactical move or a genuine disregard for the ‘beef’ by those closest to the artists.

Source: Legit NG — https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/celebrities/1690902-davidos-cousin-spotted-enjoying-time-wizkid-a-club-months-singer-insulted-father/ January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: Legit NG

Inline1

Timini Egbuson and Dakore Mourn the Passing of Their Father

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

A post shared by @timini on Instagram has confirmed the heartbreaking passing of the father of Nollywood stars Timini and Dakore Egbuson. The award-winning actor shared a somber message expressing his devastation, noting that there was ‘so much left unsaid’ before his father’s sudden departure in the early hours of the New Year.

The Egbuson family, prominent figures in the Nigerian film industry, have received an outpouring of condolences from fellow actors, directors, and fans. Dakore Egbuson-Akande, Timini’s elder sister, has also stepped back from the spotlight to grieve with her family, marking a quiet and reflective start to 2026 for the celebrity siblings.

Industry colleagues have flooded the comments sections of their social media pages with tributes, describing the late patriarch as a pillar of support for his children’s illustrious careers. Burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days as they request privacy during their period of mourning.

According to Legit NG, the loss has deeply affected the industry, reporting: ‘Actor Timini is heartbroken as he loses his dad just hours into the New Year, leaving many fans in shock.’ Additionally, P.M. News corroborated the report, stating: ‘Nollywood stars Timini and Dakore Egbuson are currently in mourning following the death of their father, a loss that has resonated throughout the entertainment circle.’

Echotitbits take: The Egbuson siblings are central to the Nollywood ecosystem, and this personal loss will likely lead to a temporary hiatus in their filming schedules. It is a reminder of the human side of celebrity life, often hidden behind the glamour of the screen.

Source: The Punch — https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/nollywood-stars-timini-dakore-egbuson-lose-father/%3famp January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: The Punch

Inline1

Anthony Joshua Breaks Silence After Fatal Nigerian Road Accident

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

According to a report by Vanguard Nigeria, British-Nigerian boxing heavyweight Anthony Joshua has officially addressed the tragic car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest associates. The boxer, who was recently visiting his ancestral home, expressed profound grief over the loss of his friends while confirming he is currently recuperating from minor injuries sustained during the incident.

The accident has sparked a wave of emotional tributes across social media, with fans and colleagues offering prayers for the former champion. While Joshua has returned to the United Kingdom for further medical evaluation, the news has cast a somber mood over the Nigerian sports community, where he is celebrated as a local hero.

Local authorities in Nigeria have since launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, which reportedly involved a high-speed collision on a major highway. Joshua’s team has requested privacy during this difficult time as they navigate the aftermath of the tragedy and support the families of the deceased.

In a statement shared via The Nation Nigeria, the boxing star noted: ‘I am devastated by the loss of my brothers; their presence was a light in my life that will be missed forever.’ Further verification from P.M. News confirmed the legal fallout, quoting a police spokesperson: ‘The driver involved in the Anthony Joshua accident has been charged with reckless driving and granted bail as investigations continue.’

Echotitbits take: This tragedy is a significant blow to Anthony Joshua’s personal life and potentially his training schedule for 2026. Beyond the personal grief, the incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety for high-profile visitors in Nigeria. Watch for how this affects his mental state and public appearances as he prepares for his next career moves in the ring.

Source: Express — https://www.express.co.uk/sport/boxing/2151607/Anthony-Joshua-car-crash-statement/amp January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: Express

Inline1

Anglican Bishop Urges Credible and Bloodless Ekiti and Osun Elections

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

In an update published by The Punch, an Anglican Bishop has issued a stern warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political parties to ensure that the upcoming off-cycle elections in Ekiti and Osun are free, fair, and devoid of violence. Speaking at a New Year service, the cleric emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford another ‘flawed electoral exercise’ which further erodes public trust in democratic institutions.

The Bishop also called on the youth to resist being used as ‘political thugs’ by candidates who keep their own children safely abroad. He urged the electorate to focus on ‘issue-based voting’ rather than ‘stomach infrastructure,’ noting that the economic choices made during these state elections will have long-term consequences for regional development.

Corroborating details from The Nation and Leadership highlight the religious focus on politics. The Nation noted that ‘other religious bodies are planning a joint peace accord,’ while Leadership quoted the Bishop: ‘The ballot must be more powerful than the bullet in Ekiti and Osun.’

Echotitbits take: Off-cycle elections are often ‘test runs’ for the general election. With Ekiti and Osun coming up, the Church is positioning itself as a moral watchdog. Watch for whether INEC introduces new ‘anti-rigging’ technology specifically for these two states to address the ‘judicial technicalities’ Falana recently complained about.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/anglican-bishop-calls-for-credible-ekiti-osun-polls/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

Inline1

Schools Reopen in Kebbi and Kwara After Successful Security Review

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

Reporting by The Punch indicates that the governments of Kebbi and Kwara states have ordered the reopening of several public schools that were previously shut down due to banditry threats. The decision follows a ‘successful security review’ and the deployment of the ‘Safe Schools Initiative’ guards in vulnerable border communities. Parents have been urged to return their children to classes as the new academic term begins.

In Kebbi, where students were recently abducted from a federal college, the government has built new perimeter fences and installed solar-powered CCTV cameras in several boarding schools. In Kwara, the reopening is focused on the northern districts where ‘bandit incursions’ from neighboring states had caused a temporary halt in educational activities late last year.

Further reporting from Channels TV and Daily Post validates the resumption. Channels TV reported that ‘local vigilantes have been integrated into the school security architecture,’ while Daily Post quoted a Kebbi educator: ‘The children have lost too much time; we are happy to have them back.’

Echotitbits take: Reopening schools is a major ‘psychological victory’ against bandits. However, ‘perimeter fences’ are only as good as the response team that monitors them. The real test will be whether the government can sustain the funding for these security guards beyond the first few months of the term.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/kwara-directs-school-to-reopen-monday/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

Inline1

SDP National Chairman Warns Tinubu Over Extravagant Lifestyle Amid Poverty

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

According to The Authority, the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, has issued a scathing assessment of the Tinubu administration. Gombe warned that the ‘extravagant lifestyle’ of those in power, contrasted with the rising poverty and ‘policy somersaults’ affecting ordinary Nigerians, poses a significant threat to the country’s democratic stability.

The SDP leader criticized the removal of fuel subsidies without what he called ‘adequate social cushioning,’ arguing that the current tax reforms are being introduced at a time when most citizens are struggling to afford basic meals. He positioned the SDP as the ‘rescue mission’ for 2027, promising a return to people-centered governance and fiscal accountability.

Validation of this political critique came from Tribune Online and Daily Post. Tribune Online reported that ‘SDP is mobilizing a third-force coalition for 2027,’ while Daily Post quoted Gombe: ‘A hungry population cannot be patriotic; the government must lead by example in cutting costs.’

Echotitbits take: This is the beginning of the ‘2027 Campaign’ narrative. By attacking the government’s ‘extravagance,’ the SDP is tapping into widespread public frustration over the high cost of governance. While the SDP is currently small, watch for whether disaffected members of the APC or PDP begin to coalesce around this ‘rescue mission’ banner.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/new-year-sdp-chair-tasks-tinubu-on-security-economy/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

Inline1

Starlink to Lower 4,400 Satellites in 2026 Strategy Shift

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

Reporting by Channels TV indicates that SpaceX’s Starlink is planning a significant orbital adjustment in 2026, which involves lowering approximately 4,400 of its satellites to a closer Earth orbit. This technical shift is designed to further reduce ‘latency’—the delay in data transmission—making the satellite internet service more competitive for high-speed gaming, financial trading, and real-time medical consultations in remote areas like rural Nigeria.

The move is also seen as a proactive measure to address concerns about ‘space debris,’ as lower-orbiting satellites are more likely to burn up in the atmosphere at the end of their life cycle. For Nigerian users, this could mean even more stable connections, especially in regions where fiber optic cables are non-existent. Starlink has already become the leading ISP for rural businesses across West Africa.

Supporting coverage from TechCity and Leadership confirms the global impact. TechCity noted that ‘latency could drop to as low as 15ms,’ while Leadership quoted a Nigerian IT consultant: ‘Starlink is already changing the game for fintechs in the North; this will only make them faster.’

Echotitbits take: Starlink is effectively making traditional ISPs obsolete in the Nigerian hinterland. By lowering latency, they are attacking the last remaining advantage of ‘ground-based’ internet. Watch for a response from local telcos like MTN and Glo, who may lobby for ‘fair competition’ regulations as Starlink’s dominance grows.
Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/01/02/starlink-to-lower-4400-satellites-in-2026/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: Channels TV

Inline1

Troops Neutralize Eight Terrorists in Borno and Kogi Operations

By

B.O.B Echoload

-

January 5, 2026

0

According to The Punch, the Nigerian Army has successfully neutralized eight terrorists during coordinated raids in Borno and Kogi states. In Borno, troops ambushed a Boko Haram supply route, killing five insurgents, while a separate operation in Kogi led to the death of three kidnappers who had been terrorizing travelers along the Lokoja-Abuja highway. Three civilians were also rescued during these operations.

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that the raids were based on actionable intelligence from local communities. He noted that a significant cache of weapons, including AK-47 rifles and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), was recovered from the scenes. The military has vowed to maintain the ‘offensive momentum’ as the dry season provides better mobility for ground troops.

Validation of these victories was reported by Channels TV and Daily Post. Channels TV noted that ‘air support played a crucial role in the Borno operation,’ while Daily Post quoted a resident: ‘We feel a bit safer seeing the soldiers actively patrolling the highway again.’

Echotitbits take: Neutralizing eight terrorists is a tactical win, but the geographical spread—from Borno to Kogi—shows that the insurgency and banditry remain decentralized. The rescue of three civilians is the real highlight here, as it boosts public confidence in military ‘intelligence-led’ operations.
Source: Zagazola – https://zagazola.org/index.php/breaking-news/troops-kill-8-boko-haram-terrorists-including-2-commanders-in-borno-clash January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: Zagazola

Inline1