Celebrity/Entertainment
MultiChoice, others reject Senate’s pay-per-view subscription proposal
MultiChoice Nigeria, owners of DSTV and GoTV, and and other stakeholders in the cable television broadcasting industry have rejected the pay-per-view (PPV) proposal made by the Nigerian Senate for the country.
The stakeholders, who currently operate monthly subscription model, said that the PPV model being canvassed by the Senate is not feasible.
The cable television providers reached the conclusion during a one-day public hearing organised by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee set up to investigate pay TV hikes.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Senate Whip Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, was also commissioned to demand for the pay-per-view subscription model in Nigeria.
Senator Abdullahi, in his opening remarks, said the Senate constituted the panel following a motion on the subject matter approved at plenary.
According to him, various packages of the MultiChoice bouquet had been increased by 80 per cent in the last five years despite court order against MultiChoice against its latest increment on March 30.
The Leader of the Senate, Ibrahim Gobir, representing Senate President Ahmad Lawan, urged the stakeholders to be liberal to enable the Senate reach recommendations that would benefit all.
Senator Abba Moro, who moved the motion, said he believed that the cable TV providers should be considerate in their prices.
He regretted that MultiChoice, with its over two million subscribers, recorded many price increments from 2009 till date.
“MultiChoice increase prices without recourse to the economic reality without adopting the pay-per-view.
“DSTV, GOTV will be raping Nigerians if they consistently shunned the pay-per-view model which could ameliorate the hardship being faced by the subscribers,” he said.
In his presentation, the Chief Executive Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, Mr. John Ugbe, noted that legal and legislative efforts to compel the firm to operate pay-per-view model failed because it was not practical.
Ugbe said: “Whilst it may appear to be a noble intent for this Committee to be concerned over the rising cost of subscription services; however, the Pay-Per-View (PPV) model being canvassed by this Committee will not work either to the benefit of the consumer or the industry.
“It would appear that this problem is because of some confusion in understanding the basic definitions and distinctions between some of the existing operational business models in telecommunications and pay-tv broadcasting.
“A pay-per-view (PPV) is not the same, and is very different from Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG).
“The PPV model allows a subscriber to watch some special one-off events, usually of the high-ticket variety in sports and entertainment, by paying for such events in addition to having an active subscription.
“Pay-As-You-Go, accommodates a metered mode of service, where consumers are billed only for the service they consume and not for a fixed period.
“The desire by this Committee to adopt PPV is further challenged by the non-existence of any technology that can detect and or determine the viewers are tuned in per time.
“Once it is impossible to have this knowledge, billings based on ‘per view’ become difficult if not almost impossible.
“It is therefore my humble submission to this distinguished committee that due to the nature of content acquisition and technological limitations that PAYG model is not practical for broadcasting and thus is not practiced and basically cannot be implemented anywhere in the world.”
On the issue of incessant price increases by MultiChoice, Ugbe attributed the development to several factors including inflation, programming content cost, broadcast transmission facilities and massive investment to innovate and keep up with technological changes.
Other factors, according to him, are anti-piracy costs, security costs, marketing and operational costs, exchange rate fluctuations, tax, regulatory fees, and cumulative national and local levies.
“Some of the adverse economic factors highlighted above have not only affected the subscription prices for pay-tv, but have generally led to substantial increments in the pricing of a wide range of goods and services ranging from essential commodities like food, transportation, clothing, healthcare, educational services to other consumer goods like petrol, building materials, cars, etc,” Ugbe said.
On his part, a former Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Emeka Mba, said the issues of Pay-Per-View (PPV) and Pay-TVpricing, does not amount to an important regulatory problem worthy of Senate’s intervention.
Mba: “As Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, Professor Malcom Sparrow famously said in his book ‘The Regulatory Craft’, Regulators should pick important problems and fix them.’
“In my humble opinion it appears that the issues being addressed today, does not reflect or amount to an important regulatory problem.
“Whilst it may appear worrying that pay Tv services subscription charges are increasing, this must be seen within the larger economic window of rising inflation, cost of living and exchange rate challenges that is faced by every sector of the economy.
“For instance, the prices of almost every item on every family’s grocery list have increased significantly, based on the realities of demand and supply occasioned by the economic factors mentioned above.”
Besides, the Chief Executive Officer of TSTV, Dr. Bright Echefu and Chief Operating Officer of Startimes, Tunde Aina, however said even if a PPV model is not feasible, Cable TV operators could adopt pay per day models to lessen the pains of poor subscribers.
Echefu said: “Pay-Per-View is not feasible but we came up with pay per day. We also allow our subscribers to choose the package based on the numbers of channels they wanted to watch.”
Some members of the panel present at the session include Senators Michael Nnachi, Suleiman Abdul Kwari and Abba Moro, who moved the motion for the Senate to investigate the incessant price hike by cable television operators in the country. Read more.
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Celebrity/Entertainment
How Nigerian TikToker Geh Geh Made ₦45 Million in One Night

A Nigerian TikTok sensation known as “Geh Geh” has stunned the internet after pulling in over $30,000 from a single live session that attracted more than 177,000 viewers.
The young entertainer, who calls his platform the “University of Wisdom and Understanding,” has quickly built a cult following with his raw and unfiltered lectures about women, money, and survival in Nigeria.
During the live broadcast on Thursday, August 21, viewers showered him with virtual gifts that he later calculated to be worth over $30,000.
The milestone instantly pushed him into the spotlight as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising online personalities.
Reacting in disbelief after the stream, Geh Geh said:
“More than 177,000 people watch my lectures today. Jesus! University of wisdom and understanding, the only university where once you graduate, woman go fear to ask you for money.”
Despite not having a formal education, Geh Geh proudly calls himself “the first illiterate to find a university in the history of Nigeria.” In a video after the viral live, he reminded fans of his humble background:
“I no be graduate too, but by the grace of God, I don find school. I be orphan, but now Nigerians don show me love.”
The TikTok star admitted he was overwhelmed by the generosity of his supporters.
“See gift I made over… more gift when they give me today is worth about $30,000. I no go take this love for granted, because I no really do anything for am.”
His rise has been hailed as proof of how social media is transforming lives in Nigeria. With no degree, no rich background, and no industry connection, Geh Geh has managed to build a fanbase that now calls themselves “students” of his unusual university.
Still, his controversial views on women and relationships continue to spark heated debates. While some dismiss his advice as reckless, others insist his boldness speaks directly to Nigeria’s frustrated youth.
Reflecting on his sudden fame, Geh Geh compared himself to great thinkers:
“If Nigeria be country wey value great people, by now them suppose dey compare people like me with Aristotle, Wole Soyinka, Einstein… but I thank God say people dey see my head and my own difference.”
From an orphan with no prospects to a viral star earning in dollars, Geh Geh’s story has become one of digital empowerment.
His journey shows how platforms like TikTok are creating new forms of fame, money, and influence for Nigerians especially those once written off by society.
Celebrity/Entertainment
Big Brain Naija Reality Show Set to Launch in Nigeria – What to Expect

Nigeria is set to welcome a new kind of reality TV show, Big Brain Naija (#BB9JA), which the organisers describe as a platform designed to discover, celebrate, and showcase the country’s brightest minds.
Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the show, powered by Big Brain Productions in collaboration with DAAR Communications Plc, will officially debut in October.
According to the organisers, it will air on Africa Independent Television (AIT) and will be staged in the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at the official signing of the partnership agreement in Abuja, Chief Executive Officer of Big Brain Productions, Mr. Kel Ameobi, explained that the initiative seeks to balance entertainment with innovation.
He stressed that the show would focus on creativity, ideas, and problem-solving rather than the usual theatrics and controversies that dominate popular reality shows in Nigeria.
“Big Brain Naija was created with a simple but powerful vision: to build a platform where intelligence meets entertainment,” Ameobi said.
He added that Nigerian youths have often been denied opportunities to showcase their ingenuity on the big stage, while entertainment spaces tend to reward superficial content.
He continued: “For too long, we’ve seen platforms celebrate emptiness and drama, while the brightest among us have no avenue to shine.
Big Brain Naija is not a show of noise but a stage for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. We want to celebrate ideas, not controversies.”
Joining him, Chief Executive Officer of DAAR Communications Plc, Mr. Marcel Anyalechi, praised the project as a refreshing departure from the norm.
He noted that DAAR Communications would fully support the show across all its media platforms.
“This project blends innovation and creativity, and we believe it will bring real impact to the entertainment industry.
We are excited to partner with Big Brain Productions to showcase Nigerian talent not just to Africa but to the world,” Anyalechi said.
Adding to the details, Chief Operating Officer of Big Brain Naija, Mr. Ossai Ilome, explained that the first season will feature 37 contestants representing all 36 states and the FCT.
To make the competition even more unique, the show will introduce AI-powered judges, making it the first reality TV show in Africa to integrate artificial intelligence at such a scale.
Ilome revealed that the winner of the maiden season will walk away with a grand prize of N30 million and a brand-new car.
He emphasized that beyond entertainment, the project aims to reinforce Nigeria’s global image as a nation of intelligent and industrious people.
“The time has come to showcase Nigerians as visionary and exceptional people. While the show will retain the entertaining aspect of reality TV, its heart lies in celebrating intellect, ideas, and innovation,” Ilome said.
The organisers expressed optimism that Big Brain Naija would not only captivate audiences but also inspire young Nigerians to dream bigger and push creative boundaries.
With its unique blend of entertainment, innovation, and national representation, the show aims to become a defining moment for the Nigerian entertainment industry when it premieres in October.
Celebrity/Entertainment
Popular Skit Maker Dies in Lagos

The Lakowe community in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State was thrown into panic last week after a skit maker and hairstylist, simply identified as Austin, was brutally murdered by suspected cultists.
Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, August 14, 2025, left residents in shock as the victim’s mutilated body was discovered with deep machete cuts.
Witnesses said the attackers severed one of his hands during the gruesome killing.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants stormed the area at dawn in search of Austin.
Upon locating his residence, they allegedly dragged him out of his apartment before hacking him to death in front of horrified neighbors.
A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity told PUNCH Metro:
“There was commotion early Thursday morning, but nobody knew what was happening.
Later, we found Austin’s corpse with machete wounds, and one of his hands cut off. That was when we realized the noise we heard was linked to the attack.”
Shockingly, friends and neighbors revealed that Austin may have anticipated his death.
A close acquaintance disclosed that the deceased posted a cryptic farewell message on his WhatsApp status just a day before the attack.
“Austin was a well-known hairstylist and also created comedy skits online. People close to him said he sensed danger and left a post hinting that something bad was about to happen,” a resident explained.
Videos shared with reporters showed his lifeless body lying on the ground with sympathizers gathered around, mourning the tragic loss.
When contacted, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, did not answer calls placed to his phone. A text message sent to him also went unanswered as of the time of filing this report.
The killing comes just days after Lagos police confirmed the arrest of six suspected cultists in connection with the violent murder of another man, identified as Kamoru, alias Keeper, in the Ebute Meta area.
In a statement released in mid-July, Hundeyin disclosed that the suspects — Raphael Ashim (30), Wasiu Kareem (33), Sadiq Olabisi (40), Olamilekan Oluwatosin (27), Olalekan Olugbodi (54), and Ibrahim Oladimeji (22) — were apprehended by detectives attached to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit during an intelligence-led operation in Surulere.
Police said the suspects were involved in multiple cult clashes across Lagos, which have claimed several lives, including that of Kamoru.
Cult-related violence has been on the rise in Lagos communities, with gangs clashing over territorial control, drug turf wars, and political influence.
Many residents have repeatedly called on the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the menace.
Austin’s killing has once again highlighted the growing insecurity in Lagos suburbs, especially in fast-developing areas like Ibeju-Lekki, where rapid urbanization has also attracted cult activity.
For residents of Lakowe, the incident has created fear and uncertainty. Some expressed concern that young men in the area are being lured into cult groups due to unemployment, peer pressure, and lack of opportunities.
Community leaders are now urging the Lagos State Police Command to launch a thorough investigation and bring Austin’s killers to justice.
Many fear that without swift action, cult-related killings could escalate and spread further across Ibeju-Lekki and surrounding communities.
As of press time, security presence in Lakowe has been increased, but residents remain on edge, mourning the loss of a popular young hairstylist and entertainer whose life was cut short by suspected cultists.
Celebrity/Entertainment
JUST IN: Tears as Nollywood legend Fabian Adibe passes away sadly

(DDM) – The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor Fabian Adibe.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the veteran performer, widely known for his role in the classic adaptation of Things Fall Apart, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday.
According to reports, Adibe died at 2:30 a.m., a development confirmed by celebrity journalist Seun Oloketuyi via his Instagram handle.
The news has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans, and stakeholders within the entertainment sector.
Fabian Adibe was celebrated as one of Nollywood’s foundational actors who helped shape the industry’s storytelling tradition.
His role in Things Fall Apart and several other Nollywood classics remains etched in the memories of movie lovers across generations.
Industry insiders described him as an actor who brought authenticity, depth, and emotion to every character he portrayed.
His passing marks another painful loss for Nollywood, which has lost several veterans in recent years.
Fabian Adibe’s contribution to Nollywood
Adibe began his acting career during Nigeria’s formative film years, appearing in stage productions before transitioning to television and home videos.
He was known for his ability to interpret roles rooted in traditional culture and African history.
His performances helped establish Nollywood as a hub of African cinematic expression.
Things Fall Apart, adapted from Chinua Achebe’s iconic novel, remains one of his most enduring legacies.
Critics hailed his performance for capturing the emotional weight and historical depth of the story.
Tributes pour in
Since the announcement of his passing, social media has been flooded with condolences and emotional messages.
Actors, filmmakers, and fans alike have celebrated his life and legacy.
Seun Oloketuyi, who confirmed the news, described Adibe as “a pioneer and a legend whose absence will be deeply felt.”
Others praised his mentorship of younger actors and his commitment to professionalism throughout his career.
Nollywood’s recent losses
Adibe’s death adds to a growing list of Nollywood veterans who have passed away in the past two years.
The industry has lost icons like Saint Obi, Mr. Ibu (John Okafor), and Don Brymo, sparking concerns about the preservation of Nollywood’s history.
Film historians have called for more archival work to document the contributions of early actors like Adibe.
Final farewell
While funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, colleagues are expected to hold memorial events in his honour.
Fans have taken to social media with messages such as, “Rest in peace, Fabian Adibe. Nollywood will never forget you.”
Celebrity/Entertainment
Why single mothers can’t raise boys into proper men — Jim Iyke

Nollywood actor Jim Iyke has sparked heated debate with his recent comments on parenting, asserting that a single mother cannot raise a boy into a “proper man” without the involvement of a male figure.
Speaking during an interview on Okay 101.7 FM in Accra, Ghana, Iyke emphasized the importance of male influence in shaping boys into responsible and disciplined men, while acknowledging the critical nurturing role women play in child-rearing.
“A woman can’t raise a man. You can’t, you’re not built for it. A single mother cannot raise a man properly,” Iyke declared. He added that the presence of a trusted male figure—whether a brother, father, or mentor—is essential. “There has to be a male presence in it [raising a boy child],” he insisted.
According to Iyke, women are naturally inclined to nurture and love, but he argued that this alone is insufficient for instilling discipline and resilience in boys.
“What you’re going to raise is a very weak man. He is going to be everything like the men that left you. You need somebody who would discipline him, tell him ‘No’ as often as possible, and put him in the grind,” he explained.
To illustrate his point, Iyke shared a personal anecdote about his four-year-old son during a family holiday in the south of France.
When his son was bullied by other kids during a football game, Iyke deliberately refused to intervene, instructing his wife to step back as well.
He described the moment as a “conversation between two men,” explaining that the experience taught his son resilience.
“He went back, fought for his ball, and came out stronger. I’ve never been more proud of him,” Iyke recounted, adding that this underscored his belief in the value of a father figure in a boy’s development.
Iyke’s comments have since gone viral, igniting passionate discussions across social media. While some agree with his perspective on the importance of male influence, others have criticized his stance, emphasizing the strength and success many single mothers have demonstrated in raising well-rounded men.
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