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Interesting story of late Amaechi Muonagor, the journalist who became actor by accident

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Interesting story of late Amaechi Muonagor, the journalist who became actor by accident

Following his months-long battle with kidney failure, Amaechi Muonagor, the ace Nigerian actor, passed away on March 24, 2024, at the age of 61.

For many who watched him while growing up, Muonagor was quite a character on TV screens. Dating back to the late 1900s, he had always put up exceptional performances across a diverse range of roles. He also showcased versatility, depth, and a profound understanding of the craft.

It did not matter if he was the ‘wicked uncle’, ‘rich chief’, ‘troublesome husband’, ‘wise king’, ‘funny drunkard’, or even ‘Aki and Pawpaw’s father’, he always delivered his roles effortlessly. He was indeed a legend in his own right.

FROM ECONOMICS TO JOURNALISM

Amaechi was born on August 20, 1962, in Obosi, Idemili north, Anambra state. He was a native of Idemili.

He attended St. Mary’s Primary School, Obosi before proceeding to Oraifite Grammar School for his secondary education.

He furthered his education at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) where he studied economics and graduated in 1987.

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Shortly after his youth service in 1989, Amaechi started working for the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

“I worked under the close supervision of the editor-in-chief of NAN for 12 years,” he said in an interview.

MUONAGOR’S ACTING LEGACY

Amaechi Muonagor died of kidney failure on March 24, 2024
After spending over a decade with NAN, Amaechi left the news agency and ventured into the movie industry, starring in his first-ever acting role in ‘Ashes of Hatred ’. He took up the role of Akunatakasi.

However, it was his character in the 1999 film ‘Igodo’ that shot him into the limelight and paved the way for his illustrious career. The movie also earned him a nomination for the ‘Best Supporting Actor’ category at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.

He also featured in hundreds of movies such as ‘Karishika’, ‘Living In Bondage’, ‘His Last Action’, ‘Most Wanted Kidnappers’, ‘Jack and Jill’, ‘Village Rascal’, ‘Evil World’, ‘Aki Na Ukwa’ and ‘Sincerity’.

Speaking about his career in the interview, Amaechi said he ventured into “Nollywood by accident”.

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“Why I say my entry into Nollywood was by accident; one day, I went for lunch and met Chuks Omeraku, one of the foremost Nollywood directors. While I was dining with some of my friends, I saw a group of individuals doing what I later came to know was called rehearsals. They were doing it and unfortunately, one particular character was giving them trouble,” he said.

“On my own while I was sipping my wine, I was repeating what they were asking the guy to say. So there and there the man picked interest, I did not know he was watching me. So when I was about to leave, I did not realize that he was following me until I sat at my desk. Then the receptionist came to tell me that someone was looking for me because then it was through intercom. I allowed the man to come in and behold it was Chuks Omeraku.

“He then convinced me to come for a shoot at Tarkwa Bay, I almost turned back when I found out that I would be ferried but eventually, I got there. He asked me to repeat those lines which I did and everyone started clapping for me. There I knew I was onto something and the rest is history.”

Amaechi was considered a very unique actor because of his versatility and his ability to embody multifaceted roles that were given to him.

Aside from acting, he also doubled as a producer and director. He established Amaechi Muonagor Productions, his own movie production company.

He founded the Amaechi Muonagor Foundation, a non-profit organization (NGO). His organization provides scholarships to less privileged students and supports various charitable causes.

AMAECHI’S MONTHS-LONG BATTLE WITH STROKE, DIABETES AND KIDNEY FAILURE

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In 2016, it was reported that Amaechi was suffering from diabetes and had left the film industry. In November 2023, the film star cried out for financial assistance.

In 1989 after his youth service, Amaechi started working for NAN
Muonogor, who spoke from a hospital bed, said the sickness caught up with him while on a movie set. He also apologised to fans for not making his condition public.

“I am on set, this thing that is called stroke caught up with me. I was lucky I was not driving. They rushed me to the hospital. The first hospital was Nnewi, where I spent two months and I was referred to a teaching hospital here in Nnewi,” he said.

“I was to enter my car when I was struck with this problem and since then it is getting worse. Right now, I cannot move, I cannot work on my own. My left leg and left hand are paralyzed.

“It is a problem to breathe. I am so sorry, I did not make it known to the public early because I did not know it would last this long but as it is now, I need help.

“Anybody who is touched, that is my fan, this is the time. I am calling all my friends both inside Nollywood and outside that is the time they will help me.”

Weeks after Amaechi revealed his stroke diagnosis, Tony Muonagor, the actor’s cousin, also disclosed that he was battling kidney failure and diabetes.

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Tony said the actor had been “managing his diabetes” for years but the recent stroke worsened his health.

Amaechi is survived by Hope Chikodi Muonagor, his wife, and their four children.

His demise came a few weeks after the death of John ‘Mr Ibu’ Okafor, the ace Nollywood actor.

Mr Ibu died from a cardiac arrest on March 2 at Evercare Hospital in Lagos. The 62-year-old actor had battled with a life-threatening illness for months before he passed on.

Source: The Cable Nigeria

 

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Showbiz & Lifestyle

Phyna accused of ignoring late sister crushed by Dangote Truck

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Phyna accused of ignoring late sister crushed by Dangote Truck

A voice note, purportedly from a classmate of Ruth Otabor—the younger sister of Josephina Otabor, better known as Phyna—has surfaced online following the tragic loss of Ruth’s life.

Ruth’s untimely death occurred mere days after a devastating road accident in Auchi, Edo State, involving a large Dangote truck. The events surrounding her medical treatment after the collision have ignited widespread public debate and concern.

In the audio recording, the classmate recounts allegations regarding Phyna’s response to her sister’s plight while Ruth was still alive.

The individual claims that upon hearing about the accident, Phyna seemed detached and indifferent, reportedly stating she was busy filming and couldn’t be there for Ruth at that moment.

The voice note also sheds light on the challenges Ruth faced during her academic journey. It reveals that she confronted numerous obstacles while pursuing her education, with many peers expressing skepticism about her ability to complete her Higher National Diploma (HND).

It was noted that Ruth entered the polytechnic as a single mother, showcasing incredible tenacity and resilience in the face of adversity throughout her life.

Describing the reality star with sharp criticism, the classmate labeled Phyna a “clout chaser,” alluding to her perceived self-serving behavior toward her sister.

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This audio has ignited a storm of reactions from fans and the public alike. Many have voiced their disapproval of the classmate for remaining silent about her concerns while Ruth was alive, urging her and others to redirect their focus on their own families instead of casting negative light on Phyna, who has previously been vocal about her achievements and struggles.

Some fans speculated that activist Verydarkman might have influenced the classmate’s statements, particularly given the fallout between Phyna and Verydarkman following Ruth’s hospitalization.

See some comments below:

@alakaba_toyinpeculiar:”See talk ,VDM don pay U too abi,ode auchi president,so if phyna no talk the matter,Ur own voice we con hear. Boy go and seat down.”

@baydayscollection:”Family expect too much and sometimes people have names and they trying to build ,carrying other may not be easy or seen to be enough you all myb stop judging.”

@luxes_woman:”Madam y u no come out since come talk am garat there.”

@mabel_amusha:”Omo Phyna you’ll be fine las las. You’ll never understand people’s family more than them. Y’all should show sympathy. She just lost her sister. Please let’s be sympathetic.”

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@overcomer5101:”So you love her sister pass her now?”

@brielle_o_solomon:”Oga mind your business. Family is always family. No put mouth. You love her sister pass her abi.”

 

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‘This One Is Personal’: Tiwa Savage releases fourth album

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‘This One Is Personal’: Tiwa Savage releases fourth album

Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has released a new album titled “This One Is Personal.” This marks her first full-length project in the past five years.

The 15-track album became available on digital music platforms on Friday. As the highly anticipated fourth album from the ‘Queen of Afrobeats,’ it delves into themes of love, heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery, presented through engaging and captivating melodies.

Some of the tracks include ‘I’m Done’, ‘Angel Dust,’ ‘You4Me’, ‘On the Low’ featuring Skepta, ‘Holding It Down,’ ‘10%’ and ‘Twisted.’

Other tracks include ‘Scared of Love,’’ Pray No More,’ ‘Addicted’ featuring Taves, ‘This One Is Personal’(Interlude), ‘Will I Run Again?,’ ‘For One Night,’ ‘You’re Not the First’ and ‘Change,’ featuring James Fauntleroy.

True to its title, the project has only three features; Taves, Skepta, and James Fauntleroy, included for their ability to complement Tiwa’s personal vision without overshadowing it.

Earlier in a post on her X page (formerly Twitter) announcing the release, the singer said the album was recorded in global studios across Nashville, London, San Francisco, and Lagos.

The self-acclaimed “Number One Africa Bad Girl” said she named the album “This One Is Personal” because it is a return to her roots, with every song being a piece of her heart.

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“This project is so close to my heart, and I poured every part of me into it. I just pray you receive it with the same love I created it with. Please cherish it, becauseThis One Is Personal. This album is my story, so l kept the features limited. I wanted you all to feel me in every song,” she said.

Also, during a Fan Q&A session on X, the singer explained that her choice of collaborators was deliberate, keeping the focus on connection rather than numbers.

She said, “I wanted you all to feel me in every song. The few features I chose were very intentional, with people who understood the vision and could add to the message without taking away from its intimacy. It’s less about numbers and more about connection.’’

The singer, who released her last full studio album in 2020, said the new project mirrors her life’s path during the last five years, balancing career transitions, motherhood, and self-discovery.

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Iyabo Ojo celebrates grandson’s birth with N3m giveaway to mothers

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Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has joyfully taken to social media to celebrate the arrival of her cherished grandson, Rakeem Ayomide Mkambala, with an exciting giveaway.

The birth of Rakeem, welcomed into the world by Iyabo’s daughter, Priscilla Ojo, alongside her partner, the esteemed Tanzanian musician Juma Jux, has filled their family with immeasurable happiness and a sense of celebration.

In a heartfelt and colorful Instagram post, Iyabo unveiled her generous initiative to provide a total of ₦50,000 each to 60 expectant and nursing mothers whose babies will make their debut in the year 2025.

This benevolent act not only commemorates the joyous arrival of little Rakeem but also reflects Iyabo’s deep love and appreciation for mothers everywhere.

Through this initiative, she aims to shine a spotlight on the incredible journey of motherhood, recognizing its challenges and the strength of women as they nurture new life. The giveaway stands as a testament to the beauty of family bonds and the joy that comes with welcoming a new generation.

Her post partly read:

“In the mood of celebration, I, Prince Rakeem Ayomide Mkambala, am pleased to announce a special gift from my glamma, Queen Mother, and my humble self—the cutest baby on the block! We’ll be giving out ₦50,000 each to 60 lucky expectant mothers and mothers with babies born in 2025.”

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She further noted that only genuine applicants will be considered and warned against fake accounts dropping details under the post.

Iyabo Ojo added that the N3 million giveaway was a token of appreciation to women experiencing the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Watch the video 

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Falz announces engagement — months after saying I’d ‘never been in love’

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Folarin Falana, the talented Nigerian rapper known by his stage name Falz, has joyfully announced his engagement, marking a significant milestone in his life. At the age of 34, the renowned artist took to Instagram to share this delightful news, introducing his bride-to-be to his eager fans and followers.

In his heartfelt post, Falz expressed that their journey together will commence with a ceremonial introduction, highlighting the cultural significance of this step in their relationship.

He took the opportunity to unveil his groom’s party and bridal train, showcasing a series of beautiful photos that capture the couple dressed in stunning matching traditional Northern Guinean attire.

With enthusiasm and gratitude, the rapper described the engagement as “one of the best decisions of my life,” reflecting the joy and excitement that accompanies this new chapter for him and his fiancée.

“It’s been a long time coming, and having to do this with you is one of the best decisions of my life. First of all, introduction,” he wrote.

The identity of his partner however remains unknown.

In July 2024, the movie star had expressed uncertainty about marriage. Same year, he disclosed that he had not been in a relationship since 2008, and claimed he was still single because he hadn’t found anyone who “likes me”.

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In April, Falz disclosed he remains single at age 34 because he hasn’t found anybody that “likes me”.

“I’ve not found anybody that likes me. In all sincerity, it’s incredibly tough to have a healthy, loving family life and be in entertainment,” he said while speaking with media personality Chude Jideonwo at the WithChude Live event.

“Not knowing how to navigate that coupled with feeling like I don’t want to scatter things as resulted in me staying away.

“Some people would say I’m running away from commitment but it’s one thing to know you’re not prepared for commitment and it’s another thing to deceive yourself and mess things up for yourself and the other person. It’s me just being conscious.

“I’ve never been heartbroken. If you don’t put your leg inside water, can you drown? I’ve been giving small heartbreak though.

“In a romantic way, I’ve never told somebody ‘I love you’. I’m not devoid of emotions, I have felt and told someone I really like them, but not that I’m in love. Maybe it borders on being conscious and not wanting to go all in.”

 

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AFRIMA 2025: Burna Boy, Davido, others lead nomination list

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AFRIMA 2025

The spotlight shone brightly on Nigerian musicians at the 2025 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), with Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, Ayra Starr, and Shallipopi leading the charge.

Both Davido and Burna Boy found themselves in the competitive arena with five nominations each, showcasing their remarkable talent alongside artists from across the African continent.

Burna Boy’s powerful single, “No Sign of Weakness,” has made waves, earning him a nomination for Album of the Year along with Davido’s highly anticipated latest album, “5ive.”

In addition to this prestigious honor, both artists also secured nominations for Song of the Year, as well as Best Collaboration for their chart-topping hits.

From South Africa, DJ Maphorisa matched this impressive feat with five nominations, including accolades for Album of the Year and Best African DJ, firmly positioning himself among the African music elite.

Moroccan rapper El Grande Toto also made his mark, garnering recognition for his tracks “Salgoat” and “Diplomatico,” resulting in five nominations.

Meanwhile, Nigerian rising star Shallipopi, known for his infectious street-pop style, earned four nominations, vying for both Song of the Year and Artist of the Year.

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Tanzanian music sensation Diamond Platnumz continued to make waves in East Africa with four nominations, while the South African songstress Tyla also impressed with her own four nominations. Tanzanian artist Juma Jux made a significant impact with three nominations, including one for the heartfelt track “Ololufe mi,” which is also contending for Song of the Year.

Other talented Nigerian artists Rema and Ayra Starr each received three nominations, adding to the excitement and vibrant diversity of this year’s AFRIMA nominations.

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‘I saw my late dad in the dream, woke up crying’ – Bobrisky

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'I saw my late dad in the dream, woke up crying' – Bobrisky

Controversial Nigerian crossdresser Idris Okuneye Olanrewaju, widely known as Bobrisky, recently took to Instagram to share an emotional tribute in memory of his late father.

In a heartfelt post, he revealed that he had a vivid dream about his father that left him overwhelmed with emotion upon waking, tears streaming down his face.

As he reminisced about their time together, Bobrisky recalled the simple yet meaningful moments they shared—cooking meals for him, doing his laundry, and enjoying quiet afternoons at home.

He described his father as his entire world, emphasizing the profound sense of loss he feels as the youngest child in the family. The ache of his father’s absence weighs heavily on him, leaving an emptiness that seems insurmountable.

In this moment of vulnerability, Bobrisky reached out to fellow actress Tonto Dikeh, who provided him with comfort and support following his emotional turmoil. Her presence and understanding helped to ease the pain of his memories, reminding him that he is not alone in his grief.

He wrote: “Daddy, you appear to me in my dream dis morning. You miss how i spoil you silly on earth right? You miss how i do ur laundry, cook for you whenever i come visiting you in ur home, you miss how i showed up for you when you need me? Daddy ur baby just oned dis morning.. I miss you more than you miss me cos you are my world.

“Going back to bed.. I just saw my dad in my dream and i wokeup to cry. I immediately put a cal to tonto and she pet me. Thank you tonto ❤❤. It’s not easy to be d last born. I love my dad so much and he knows.”

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