Actor, dancer and model Olaye Benjamin Junior, has won the online monologue contest of Invasion 1897 in commemoration of 25th year behind the camera anniversary of popular movie producer, Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen.
The versatile entertainer whose father, Benjamin Olaye, popularly known as BENJOF (the magic feet sensation) was the producer and presenter of the then TV program ‘Beat Wave’ in old Bendel State (now Edo and Delta States), beat four others in a keenly contested online monologue show.
Organizers of Lancelot Imasuen 25 years behind the camera had organised the show to herald a almost 6 months packaged event for the Leader and the pride of Nigeria motion picture, one of the 6 angry men that formed the Directors Guild of Nigeria, who will clock 49 in June this year, and 25 years in an industry, Nollywood, that is adjudged as the third largest in the world and Benjamin Olaye won it.
Olaye Jnr won the first position among the final contestants that also has, Promise Udeme and
Patricia Innocent as first and second runner-up respectively. The contest was done mainly using the official instagram handles of Lancelot Imasuen, and these five contestants, @officialbenjaminolaye, @patriciainnocent1, @mhizpromiseudeme, @ebukaezekwueme and @amaka_hans, emerged the best out of about 700 entries, winning various amount of monetary rewards and certificates of participation.
Ambassador Imasuen while expressing his admiration for the organizers of the online contest said, “This is just my own little but impactful way of working and ensuring even and balanced development within Nigeria. I am o lying trying to give back to my community, Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.”
He said, “Before the end of the year, plans are on ground to celebrate an elaborate one-week high octane event in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, where I will also be giving back to the society.”
“There will be workshop and mobile film making clinic as well as a book launch on my career and the forces that has kept me being consistent for the past 25 years behind the camera.”
Ambassador Lancelot said, “Even with the lockdown order due to coronavirus pandemic, I will not stop doing what has kept me for 25 years. Having this contest online and rewarding outstanding performances from actors is another way of saying thank you to the society that has supported me thus far.” He gushed.
Also speaking, Ideh chukwuma innocent of
Onesoul films, Heat factory ici productions said, “I was very honoured and humbled when sir Lancelot Imasuen called me and ask me to be the Chief Judge of the Invasion 1897 challenge. This is a film that i saw from the screening stage at silverbird cinema and i fell in love with the story and got emotionally connected to it. So yes I was so happy to do it.”
“Over seven hundred entries was sent in by young brillaint actors. It was hard to go through all of them but i made sure everyone was giving equal attention. Cutting down to the last five was tough but we got our top five and gave them a second challenge. This second challange was what helped us to get a winner. Am proud of the winner I can confidently say he has alot of great potential and I am also look forward to working with him and the other top four.”
“I want to thank Sir Lancelot for trusting me and the entire benin film academy and everyone that came to financially support and gave money and other prices to the winners. I say weldone to all the contestants and wish them nothing but the very best. Keep doing what you do and dont stop. I look forward to seeing all of you at work. And to my oga lancelot imasuen I wish you a fantastic 25th anniversary.”
Invasion 1897 upon which the contest was done, was the first Nollywood movie to be shot and screened inside the British Museum. And between 2015/16, the movie went to several Film Festivals in the world winning over 26 awards and several nominations.
Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk retained his heavyweight championship titles and cemented his place in boxing history with a unanimous decision victory over Britain’s Tyson Fury in their rematch on Saturday night.
The judges scored the bout 116-112 in Usyk’s favor across the board, marking his second consecutive win over Fury. This victory extended Usyk’s flawless professional record to 23-0, with 14 knockouts, adding another chapter to a career already highlighted by Olympic gold and an undisputed cruiserweight championship.
A Masterclass Performance
Usyk, 37, showcased his signature precision and relentless pace, repeatedly catching Fury with clean left hooks and dominating the latter stages of the fight. Fury, at 6ft 9in (206cm) and weighing a career-high 281 pounds, attempted to impose his physicality but was unable to break Usyk’s composure.
The fight, held in Saudi Arabia, saw Usyk wearing traditional Cossack attire during his entrance, while Fury entered the arena dressed in a festive Santa-inspired robe to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”
The early rounds were competitive, with Fury landing powerful jabs and body shots. However, Usyk’s endurance and tactical brilliance began to shine in the middle rounds. The Ukrainian landed sharp combinations and dictated the tempo, including a stunning uppercut in the final round that left little doubt about the outcome.
“I thought I’ve won both fights,” Fury said post-match, sporting a bruised right eye. “But I’ll always believe until the day I die that I won that fight.”
A Legacy Sealed
Usyk’s victory solidified his standing as one of the greatest heavyweights in history. Already the first undisputed heavyweight of the four-belt era, Usyk joins the ranks of legends like Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Mike Tyson.
The bout, reported to have a prize purse of $190 million, also underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports. Usyk, who served briefly as a soldier during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, celebrated his victory by hoisting a symbolic sabre belonging to Ukrainian nationalist hero Ivan Mazepa.
Fury’s Uncertain Future
The defeat leaves Fury’s future in doubt. Once unbeaten across 35 fights, Fury now stands at 34-2-1. His attempt to reclaim glory after a brief retirement in 2022 has been marred by back-to-back losses to Usyk.
Usyk, on the other hand, continues to add to his already remarkable resume, leaving fans and critics alike in awe of his technical skill, resilience, and determination. As the heavyweight division looks ahead, Usyk’s reign appears unshakable, and his place among boxing’s all-time greats is firmly secured.
Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody
Renowned gospel artist Testimony Jaga has set a new standard in the genre with the release of his highly anticipated album, Fuji Rhapsody. This innovative project masterfully blends the electrifying rhythms of Fuji music with uplifting gospel messages, offering a unique and transformative musical experience.
With a runtime of approximately one hour, Fuji Rhapsody takes listeners on a continuous, spiritually enriching journey, brimming with energy and inspiration. The album is available for streaming on popular platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, Audiomack, Boomplay, and more.
Whether you’re a fan of vibrant Fuji beats or seeking soul-stirring gospel tunes, Fuji Rhapsody is an album that promises to inspire and uplift. Press play and let its powerful melodies rejuvenate your spirit today!
His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21
The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo C.O.N., has extended warm birthday wishes to His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the state and his unwavering support during the Governor’s electoral victory.
In a heartfelt message, Governor Okpebholo expressed his profound admiration for Bishop Amasihohu, acknowledging his steadfast leadership, spiritual guidance, and commitment to the well-being of the people of Edo State.
“I am delighted to celebrate Bishop Desmond Osazuwa on his special day,” the Governor stated. “His tireless prayers and invaluable support during my election campaign played a significant role in our collective success. His dedication to the spiritual and physical growth of Edo State is a testament to his purposeful leadership and unwavering faith.”
Reflecting on the Bishop’s years of service, the Governor added, “On behalf of my family and the entire Edo State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Desmond Amasihohu on his birthday. He is a true son of Edo, whose contributions continue to enrich our lives. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday but also his enduring impact on our state and beyond.”
Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of honoring individuals who dedicate their lives to service. “Recognizing Bishop Desmond Osazuwa aligns with our shared values of inclusivity, unity, and gratitude. His contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of Edo State are invaluable, and we are truly blessed to have him among us.”
Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu has spent decades spreading the gospel and transforming lives both within Edo State and across the globe. His birthday celebration drew dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers who gathered to honor his life and legacy.
The occasion stands as a powerful reminder of the values of faith, service, and unity that guide the Governor’s vision for a stronger Edo State.
“Happy birthday, my Bishop,” Governor Okpebholo concluded. “Your wisdom and contributions to the development of our state are deeply appreciated. May the Lord Almighty bless you with good health, strength, and continued prosperity.”