Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: Lagos news

  • Entertainment Industry Shaken as 960 Music Group Sues Over Burna Boy Catalogue

    Entertainment Industry Shaken as 960 Music Group Sues Over Burna Boy Catalogue

    According to Channels Television, the Nigerian music industry is facing a high-stakes legal battle as the 960 Music Group has filed a lawsuit to void the multi-million dollar sale of Burna Boy’s music catalogue. The group, which claims to be a major shareholder, argues that the sale of the “crown jewel” assets was finalized without their knowledge, consent, or board approval.

    The lawsuit seeks to freeze the proceeds of the sale and restore the ownership rights to the original stakeholders. This case highlights the growing complexity of music rights and intellectual property in Africa’s booming entertainment sector, where global investors are increasingly looking to acquire the libraries of Afrobeats stars.

    Burna Boy’s catalogue is considered one of the most valuable in African music, containing global hits that generate significant streaming and licensing revenue. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how contracts are structured and how minority shareholders are protected in the Nigerian creative industry.

    Further reporting from The Punch and Tribune provides additional context. The Punch reported that “international buyers are closely watching the case as it affects the stability of Nigerian music investments,” while Tribune noted that “Burna Boy’s management has yet to release an official statement regarding the litigation.”

    Echotitbits take: This is the “Big Corporate” side of Afrobeats. As our music goes global, the legal battles will only get messier. This case will be a litmus test for IP laws in Nigeria and how “Legacy” labels handle the exit of their biggest stars to global giants.

    Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/09/960-music-group-sues-to-void-multi-million-dollar-burna-boy-catalogue/, February 10, 2026

    Photo credit: Channels TV

  • Lagos Experts Warn of Erratic Weather and Heatwaves in 2026

    Lagos Experts Warn of Erratic Weather and Heatwaves in 2026

    In an update published by The Punch, environmental scientists and health experts have warned that Nigeria is entering a period of extreme climate unpredictability. Unusual rainfall patterns observed in Lagos and Ogun states during January and early February are being cited as clear indicators that traditional seasonal cycles have been disrupted by global warming.

    Mr. Ahoton James, Director of Environmental Service at the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, noted that the absence of a traditional harmattan season in late 2025 and early 2026 is a significant red flag. The experts predict that the country may face intense heatwaves and unseasonable flooding, which could severely impact food security and public health.

    The changing climate is already affecting agricultural planning, as farmers who rely on predictable rain cycles are finding it difficult to time their planting. This volatility is expected to persist throughout the year, necessitating a shift in national disaster management strategies.

    Validating reports from Vanguard and Daily Trust emphasize these concerns, with Vanguard quoting a meteorologist who said, “We are seeing the 2026 weather calendar being rewritten by carbon footprints,” while Daily Trust noted that “Northern states must prepare for record-breaking temperatures this summer.”

    Echotitbits take: The failure of the harmattan and early rains in the south are not just anomalies; they are economic risks. Expect a spike in cooling costs and potential volatility in food prices if the heatwaves affect the early planting season.

    Source: The Cable – https://www.thecable.ng/heat-like-hell-fire-strange-weather-angry-water-what-nigerians-call-climate-change/, February 8, 2026

    Photo credit: The Cable

  • Lagos State Commits Over N1 Billion to Settle Backlog of Retiree Benefits

    Lagos State Commits Over N1 Billion to Settle Backlog of Retiree Benefits

    In an update published by The Punch, the Lagos State Government has successfully distributed more than N1 billion to 543 retirees, covering their long-awaited accrued pension rights. This disbursement is part of a strategic effort by the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to clear the financial obligations owed to former public servants and ensure their post-service welfare is prioritized.

    The Governor emphasized that the prompt payment of these benefits is a testament to the state’s commitment to the social contract between the government and its workforce. By settling these claims, the administration aims to provide a financial safety net for the elderly who have spent decades in the service of the state, particularly during times of economic volatility.

    Further validation of this development was provided by The Nation, which noted that the payment exercise was conducted through the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC). The outlet quoted an official stating, “We are determined to maintain a consistent payment schedule to ensure that no retiree is left in financial distress.” Similarly, Daily Post confirmed the disbursement, highlighting the emotional relief for beneficiaries; the report featured a brief quote from a retiree: “This payment is a lifeline that has restored our hope in the system.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Lagos remains the frontrunner in pension reforms in Nigeria, consistently funding its retirement obligations despite national fiscal pressures. This move not only boosts the local economy by increasing the purchasing power of over 500 households but also serves as a stabilizing factor for the state’s civil service. Watch for whether other states, currently grappling with pension backlogs, will adopt the Lagos model of consistent monthly funding into retirement savings accounts.

    Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/lasg-pays-465-retirees-n1-billion-pension-benefits/, and February 2, 2026

    Photo credit:  The Guardian

  • Buchi Criticizes Lagos Celebrities for ‘Embarrassing’ iShowSpeed Interactions

    Buchi Criticizes Lagos Celebrities for ‘Embarrassing’ iShowSpeed Interactions

    Comedian and social media critic Buchi has criticized several Lagos-based creators for their behavior during iShowSpeed’s recent Nigeria visit, calling it embarrassing.

    He singled out viral moments involving Egungun and streamer Peller, arguing the public pursuit of attention reflects a lack of substance.

    The backlash has triggered wider debate about clout-chasing, dignity, and the incentives of Nigeria’s fast-growing creator economy.

    Echotitbits take: Buchi is playing the ‘grumpy uncle,’ but the critique lands for anyone tired of cringe optics. Still, in the attention economy, the viral creators got the outcome they wanted: global visibility. The argument is really about values, not views.

    Source: Leadership News – https://leadership.ng/buchi-blasts-lagos-celebrities-for-seeking-us-streamer-ishowspeeds-attention-2/ 2026-01-23
    Photo Credit: Leadership News

  • Eucharia Anunobi speaks out after leaked-audio talk links her name to controversy

    Eucharia Anunobi speaks out after leaked-audio talk links her name to controversy

    According to QED.ng, actress and evangelist Eucharia Anunobi pushed back against allegations linked to a leaked audio that mentioned her, calling it an attempt to damage her reputation.

    She said she addressed the issue during a live broadcast and framed it as a targeted attack that “failed.”

    Independent checks:

    • Daily Post Nigeria: “Eucharia Anunobi reacts…” — https://dailypost.ng/
    • Legit.ng: “They tried to tarnish my name…” — https://www.legit.ng/

    When religious circles and celebrity names mix, misinformation spreads fast and is hard to contain. Watch for follow-up statements from people tied to the audio, and whether her camp issues legal notices to blogs amplifying unverified claims.

    Source: PmNews — 2026-01-07 — https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/01/07/eucharia-anunobi-finally-speaks-on-shocking-leaked-audio/

    Source: PmNews 2026-01-07

    Photo Credit: PmNews

  • Lagos Governor Donates N100 Million and Housing to Nigerian Legion

    Lagos Governor Donates N100 Million and Housing to Nigerian Legion

    Figures cited by The Guardian show that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has donated N100 million to the Lagos State Council of the Nigerian Legion to launch the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund. In addition to the cash donation, the Governor provided four sets of two-bedroom apartments, utility vehicles, and 500 bags of rice to support the families of fallen heroes and surviving veterans. During the launch at Lagos House, Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that honoring those who paid the supreme price is a national tradition and a constitutional responsibility. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of veterans, stating that their sacrifices remain the foundation of the nation’s peace. The event was also reported by Vanguard and Channels TV. Vanguard noted that ‘Sanwo-Olu gifts N100m apartments to Nigerian Legion,’ while Channels TV highlighted that the Governor called for ‘increased public support’ for the emblem appeal ahead of the January 15 commemoration.

    Echotitbits take: This gesture serves a dual purpose: social welfare and a morale booster for active-duty personnel. By providing housing and cash, Lagos is setting a high bar for other states. Expect similar launches across the 36 states as the country prepares for the main Remembrance Day ceremony on January 15.

    Source: ThisDay – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/01/06/sanwo-olu-donates-n100m-houses-food-items-to-nigerian-legion/ January 6 2026

    Photo Credit: ThisDay

  • Burna Boy and VDM Visit Kirikiri Prison to Free Inmates

    Burna Boy and VDM Visit Kirikiri Prison to Free Inmates

    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

  • Anthony Joshua discharged after Lagos crash, pays respects to late associates

    Anthony Joshua discharged after Lagos crash, pays respects to late associates

    2026-01-01 08:00:00

    Reporting by The Guardian indicates Anthony Joshua has been discharged from Lagoon Hospital after a crash near Lagos that killed two members of his team.

    The report says Joshua suffered minor injuries, was kept under observation, and later visited a funeral home with his mother as arrangements were made.

    • Associated Press (AP): “discharged … after being declared clinically fit to recover at home”
    • Reuters: “released from Lagoon Hospital in Lagos”

    Echotitbits take: Beyond the tragedy, this story re-spotlights Nigeria’s road-safety gaps and how quickly a celebrity incident can refocus public pressure—expect more scrutiny on enforcement, speed, and heavy-duty truck safety on key highways.

    Source: The Guardian — January 1, 2026 — https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/jan/01/anthony-joshua-released-from-hospital-in-nigeria-car-crash-boxing

    The Guardian
    January 1, 2026
    Photo Credit: The Guardian

  • Lagos boat capsizes near Nigerdock with fatalities as agencies launch rescue response

    Lagos boat capsizes near Nigerdock with fatalities as agencies launch rescue response

    2026-01-01 06:50:00
    Reporting by Vanguard indicates at least six passengers died and others were rescued after a passenger boat mishap near the Nigerdock axis of Lagos waterways.

    In an update published by the outlet, agencies including LASWA and NIWA were described as part of the search-and-rescue response alongside marine police.

    The incident renews attention on enforcement of safety protocols—lifejacket compliance, passenger manifests, and operator licensing.

    Punch also reported the incident and cited Lagos waterways authorities on the casualty count and rescue operations.

    The Guardian Nigeria likewise carried the update, reporting fatalities and describing a multi-agency response on the waterways.

    Echotitbits take:

    Water transport is growing, but safety enforcement is lagging. Watch for sustained inspections, penalties for non-compliance, and standardized manifest/lifejacket rules that are actually enforced beyond the news cycle.

    Source: Vanguard — January 1, 2026 (https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/6-dead-4-rescued-in-lagos-boat-mishap/)

    Vanguard 2026-01-01

    Photo Credit: Vanguard

  • Burna Boy and VeryDarkMan visit Kirikiri as prison-fines conversation trends

    Burna Boy and VeryDarkMan visit Kirikiri as prison-fines conversation trends

    Photo Credit: TheCable Lifestyle

    2025-12-28

    According to TheCable Lifestyle, Burna Boy and activist VeryDarkMan visited the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre to understand the procedures for discharging eligible inmates whose sentences include fines.

    Authorities framed the visit around lawful process and transparency, while online chatter focused on what support might follow and how outcomes will be tracked.

    The episode sits at the intersection of celebrity influence, prison decongestion advocacy, and public trust.

    Verification

    • The Nation (Website): “to seek information on legal procedures that would facilitate the discharge of inmates through the payment of fines.”
    • Nigerian Tribune (Website): “No inmate is released without proper verification, documentation, and authorization…”

    Echotitbits take: If handled transparently, this could evolve from a one-off visit into a structured, legal-aid-driven initiative. Watch for official documentation, credible partners, and verifiable outcomes before the story becomes pure social-media mythology.

    Source: TheCable Lifestyle — December 28, 2025 — https://lifestyle.thecable.ng/burna-boy-verydarkman-visit-kirikiri-to-secure-release-of-inmates-jailed-for-unpaid-fines/

    TheCable Lifestyle
    2025-12-28