celebrity radar - gossips

Former Golden Eaglets Defender, Douglas Uzama murdered by cultists in Benin

Published

9 years ago

December 31, 2016

The circumstance that led to the death of former Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles defender, Douglas Uzama who was brutally murdered by suspected cultists on Thursday in Sakponba area of Edo state is so sad

Revealing details of the incident, the father of the 18-year-old Gombe United defender said the cultists tricked his son away from home and killed him at a nearby bar in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Uzoma was a left-back was a member of the 2015 Golden Eaglets team before his death. He played in the qualifiers for the 2015 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Niger, but did not make the final squads to the tournament and the Chile 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where Nigeria won their fifth title.

According to the father, Uzama, who is the last child of his family, was expected to travel on January 10, 2017, to sign a deal with a club in Argentina before he met his untimely death.

The late footballer’s father, Jacob Uzama, said he had left home on Thursday evening to their family house, only to be told 20 minutes later that Douglas had been shot dead.

Jacob said his son went out from their 14, Apostolic Street, Off Sakponba Road, after receiving a phone call from some friends. But the retired army personnel said on getting to a nearby bar to join his friends, two boys came in and shot Uzama at the back of his neck.

It was learnt that the footballer died instantly, as the same boys went further to kill two other people on the same street.

“I was not at home when the incident happened but I was told that Douglas’ friends called him on phone and he went to meet them. When I got there, I met he was shot at the back of his head. His brother rushed him to Central Hospital but Douglas was dead before he got to hospital. We have deposited his corpse at a mortuary. We’ve also reported the matter to the police but we’ve not heard from them yet,” Jacob stated.

However, when the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Haliru Gwandu, was contacted on the issue, he said the state police command was unaware of Uzama’s death.

“I don’t have any information about the killing of any footballer but the Edo State Police Command has been arresting suspected cultists over clashes in the Sakponba area of Benin City recently,” Gwandu said.

According to an eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity for fear of being attacked by the cultists, the attack on the Edo State-born player was planned.

“Sakponba is notorious for the activities of cultists. It was a well-planned attack on Douglas. It’s a cult-related incident but whether he was a cultist or they used him to get back at somebody else is what we don’t know.”

It’s the second time a Premier League player would be killed in 2016. Shooting Stars’ defender Izu Joseph was reportedly shot dead by soldiers in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in October while also on holiday.

In 2009, Bayelsa United captain, Abiel Tabor, was shot dead hours after leading his club to the league title. Tabor was driving home after Bayelsa’s league triumph when he was stopped and shot in the head by suspected armed robbers as he tried to get away from the gunmen.

Also in 2009, two defunct Ocean Boys players, Eniye Dennis and UbotoOchokoma, were shot dead in their home by suspected cultists, while sleeping.

Earlier, Igeniwari George, the younger brother of Nigeria legend Finidi George, died on September 9, 1995, from gunshot wounds during a Federation Cup match between his club Enugu Rangers and Stationery Stores at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.

In a statement signed by Tosin Akinde, Secretary, Edo State Council of the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers, the players union said, “Douglas is a dedicated player and his untimely death has thrown the entire football community in Benin into shock. The rate of killings of innocent footballers at their prime in Nigeria has reached an alarming stage and the union must seek justice this time around.

“Izu’s case is still fresh and we are yet to recover from the shock. Now we are mourning a promising young footballer, who has played for the national teams at the U-17 and U-20 categories.”

His club Gombe United lamented the loss of the young defender.

The rate of killings of innocent souls in Nigeria is reaching an alarming stage; we mourn the untimely and grim murder of Douglas Uzama. He nursed the dream of playing at the very top; for some thugs to brutally take his life at this stage of his career means the life of an ordinary Nigerian is at risk every day.

“We call on the security forces to hunt for Douglas Uzama’s murderers and bring them to book. They should be made to pay for this dastardly act and shall never be allowed to go scot free,” the club said in a statement.

celebrity radar - gossips

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

Published

2 days ago

May 13, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

.. How she has attained so much professional, political heights at 60

The beautiful city of Marbella in Spain was thrown into a colorful and electrifying mood when one of Nigeria’s most celebrated, iconic political Lionesses, the debonair banker turned politician, Lady Omorede Osifo was serenaded with a sumptuous and deluxe 60th birthday gig.

The dynamic political empress and symbol of selfless service to humanity who served diligently and faithfully as the honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Edo State was flabbergasted by the amazing love shown to her by friends, family and well-wishers who thronged the alluringly beautiful hall to give her an indelible birthday celebration. The event tagged @omorede_osifo is now the talk of town as high networth dignitaries, celebrities from all walks of life and different parts of the world all made their presence significant for the celebrant to ruminate over in many years to come.

Lady Omorede Osifo is a quintessential democrat who committed much of her time and energy in serving the people. The birthday babe whose special day fell on 8th of May has come, saw and conquered in the so-called murky waters of Nigerian politics. She served perfectly as State Commissioner, Deputy National Treasurer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),

Special Adviser on Women Mobilization in Edo State and as a distinguished representative of her people.

As the celebration of the 60th birthday of this lady of glam, glitz and panache unfolded, it became clear that this gathering was not just a personal milestone for Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo but also a reaffirmation of commitment among political leaders to work together. The convergence of these key figures in the political arena serves as a reminder of the potential for collaborative efforts to foster progress and uplift the community.

Her birthday celebration was a testament to the strength of unity in political engagement, highlighting the significance of personal connections in the realm of governance.

As Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo embarks on another year, the expressions of support and solidarity from her fellow dignitaries promise a future filled with collaborative achievements and shared goals for the betterment of their constituents.

Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo is a fantastic leader who wants the best for her people. She is personally committed to the transformation of women and two girl child in Edo State and she has also been at the top echelon of her political party, the APC with her selfless efforts recognized and appreciated by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as well as her superb democratic contributions to the growth and development of Edo State under the leadership of His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo who has overtime shown appreciation to her for being a dedicated and patriotic loyal daughter of Edo State. Even the Oba of Benin Kingdom bestowed on her the Prestigious Royal Beads which is given to Chiefs in recognition of her deep passion for the historical city of Benin.

This year, all road led to the serene city of Marbella, Spain for the celebration of her 60th birthday and a opportunity for her to appreciate her Creator, the Almighty God as well as every single individual that has played significant roles in her life.

Attaining the diamond age of 60 is never a child’s play, it’s a moment of sober reflection and commendation to God. We at Black Celebrity Magazine wish the indefatigable and indomitable Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo a very happy 60th birthday and many more years to live in perfect health and more success.

celebrity radar - gossips

Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

Published

3 days ago

May 12, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

The Nigerian entertainment industry was thrown into confusion and panic on Tuesday following viral reports alleging that popular Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo, had died at the age of 40.

The shocking claim, which spread rapidly across social media platforms and blogs, alleged that the actor died in Lagos after battling undisclosed health complications, sparking an outpouring of grief from stunned fans and colleagues.

As the rumours gained momentum online, several actors, movie producers and entertainment enthusiasts flooded Instagram and X with emotional reactions, describing the development as “heartbreaking,” “unbelievable” and “a dark day for Nollywood.”

Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe was among those who reacted emotionally, reportedly lamenting that the industry had lost “a rare soul” whose charisma and talent helped shape modern Nollywood.

Alexx Ekubo, widely admired for his stylish persona, romanti movie roles and strong social media influence, rose to prominence after emerging first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition before becoming one of Nollywood’s most sought-after actors.

The development also reignited conversations surrounding the actor’s prolonged absence from social media in recent months, which had earlier triggered concern among fans over his wellbeing.
Despite the widespread reports, confusion continued to trail the story as no official statement had been issued by the actor’s family, management or close associates confirming the alleged death as of press time.

The uncertainty surrounding the reports further fueled tension online, with many Nigerians demanding clarity while others urged the public against spreading unverified information.

celebrity radar - gossips

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

Published

3 days ago

May 12, 2026

Sahara Weekly

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

Popular Nigerian actress, singer and dancer, Seyi Ariyo, popularly known as Shebaby, has stirred reactions on social media following speculations that she is expecting a child years after getting married.

The development has generated excitement among fans and colleagues, especially on Instagram where many have continued to flood her page with congratulatory messages and prayers.

While some admirers celebrated the actress and prayed that her joy would be permanent, others pointed to a viral video currently making rounds online, where several entertainers, among them Oyita, a close friend, Tawa Ajisefinni, Seyi Ẹdun, Bukky Fagbuyi, and a host of others including Olú Maintain, were seen rejoicing and congratulating her.

Although Shebaby is already a mother with a grown daughter, the latest development has continued to attract attention within the entertainment industry and among her followers.

Before now, the London-based entertainer had built a strong reputation for herself in both music and acting. She has released several songs and also worked alongside notable Fuji star Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and other respected entertainers in the industry.

In the movie sector, Shebaby is also regarded as a household name. Sources close to the actress revealed that she is currently working on a new project titled Father Forgive Me.

Fans and colleagues have continued to pray for the actress, wishing her safe delivery and more happiness in her home.

#Shebaby #SeyiAriyo #EntertainmentNews #Nollywood #Pasuma #Olumaintain #CelebrityNews