celebrity radar - gossips
The Path Forward for Dele Farotimi By Kenneth Ikonne
The Path Forward for Dele Farotimi
By Kenneth Ikonne
There is no denying that Dele Farotimi’s allegation in his recent book—that Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, compromised Supreme Court justices to secure a favorable judgment in a land dispute—is defamatory unless it can be substantiated. Such a claim tarnishes the reputation of the esteemed lawyer, both professionally and socially, and lowers him in the estimation of right-thinking individuals.
The situation presents a clear legal quandary for Farotimi. While the possibility exists that his claims are true, defamation law operates on the presumption that defamatory statements are false unless proven otherwise. The burden of proving the substantial truth of his allegations rests squarely on Farotimi—a burden that, in this case, seems insurmountable.
To complicate matters, Farotimi now faces criminal defamation charges in Ekiti State. Unlike Lagos, where defamation is a civil matter, Ekiti recognizes it as both a civil and criminal offense. The law requires only that the prosecution demonstrate the defamatory content was published and read within the jurisdiction. Farotimi’s location in Lagos does not shield him; as long as he is in Ekiti, voluntarily or otherwise, the courts there retain jurisdiction.
The stakes are high. Beyond criminal defamation, Farotimi risks facing a graver charge—bringing the Supreme Court into disrepute. If convicted, he could be struck off the roll of legal practitioners, an outcome that would mark a significant personal and professional downfall.
A Personal Encounter with Chief Afe Babalola
Many years ago, I found myself in a somewhat analogous situation. Chief Afe Babalola had sued Dr. Usoro, a maritime magnate, for $1 million in unpaid professional fees. Representing Dr. Usoro, I challenged the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to hear the case. The court agreed and dismissed the suit, leaving Chief Babalola the option of refiling in Ibadan or Port Harcourt.
Realizing the limited nature of our victory, I sought my client’s permission to approach Chief Babalola directly. With humility as my guide, I traveled to Ibadan and eventually to Ado-Ekiti to meet the iconic lawyer. My approach disarmed him, and he graciously forgave the debt after a heartfelt exchange. That meeting left an indelible impression on me of his magnanimity.
A Lesson for Farotimi
The lesson is clear: humility and dialogue may offer a viable path forward. Instead of pursuing a combative approach, Farotimi could lean on his connections, particularly his relationship with Peter Obi, who has ties to former President Olusegun Obasanjo—a close associate of Chief Afe Babalola. Through these channels, Farotimi could seek a resolution, ultimately making the symbolic pilgrimage to Ado-Ekiti, much like I did in 2011.
This approach aligns with the principle that reconciliation often trumps litigation. A gesture of humility may not only soften Chief Babalola’s stance but also avert the more serious charges that loom over Farotimi’s legal career.
As Chief Babalola once assured me, “No one comes to see me in Ado-Ekiti and leaves empty-handed.” Farotimi should take this to heart.
Kenneth Ikonne is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and writes from Abuja.
celebrity radar - gossips
Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars
King of the Screen: Why Odunlade, Muyiwa, Femi Adebayo Remain Yoruba Movie Giants
The Yoruba movie industry has continued to produce legendary talents whose influence stretches beyond Nigeria to global audiences. Over the years, some actors have distinguished themselves through consistency, versatility, box office success, and cultural impact.
Among the numerous stars in Nollywood’s Yoruba sector, three actors have remained dominant figures whose names constantly resonate with fans and filmmakers alike — Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo.
Odunlade Adekola: The Street King of Yoruba Cinema
Popularly regarded as one of the most entertaining actors in Nollywood, Odunlade Adekola has built a unique reputation through his energetic delivery, comic timing, emotional depth, and strong connection with grassroots audiences.
From comedy to action and emotional family dramas, the actor has consistently proven his versatility in blockbuster productions. His ability to interpret diverse roles effortlessly has made him a household name across Nigeria.
Industry observers believe his dominance on social media platforms, where his movie clips frequently go viral, has further strengthened his popularity among younger audiences.
Beyond acting, Odunlade has also contributed immensely to mentoring upcoming talents and expanding the commercial value of Yoruba films.
Muyiwa Ademola: The Master Storyteller
For many lovers of indigenous movies, Muyiwa Ademola remains one of the finest storytellers the Yoruba film industry has produced.
Widely respected for producing emotional and morally driven movies, the actor earned massive recognition through classic productions that focused on family values, culture, betrayal, perseverance, and societal lessons.
His calm delivery, deep scripts, and originality have kept him relevant despite changing trends in the entertainment industry.
Film critics often describe Muyiwa Ademola as one of the few actors whose productions combine entertainment with strong cultural education, making his movies timeless among older and younger viewers alike.
Femi Adebayo: The Modern-Day Box Office Force
Femi Adebayo has successfully combined traditional Yoruba storytelling with modern cinematic excellence, helping to project indigenous films to international audiences.
The actor, filmmaker, and producer has recorded major successes with high-budget productions that gained attention on streaming platforms and cinemas.
Known for his professionalism and attention to detail, Femi Adebayo has continued to push Yoruba movies beyond local boundaries while preserving cultural identity.
Entertainment analysts say his ability to blend culture, technology, and quality production has positioned him among the leading faces shaping the future of Yoruba cinema.
Growing Global Influence
The success of these actors reflects the increasing acceptance of indigenous Nigerian content globally. With streaming platforms creating wider access to local movies, Yoruba actors are now gaining international recognition and attracting new audiences.
Fans and stakeholders in the entertainment industry believe the contributions of Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo have not only sustained Yoruba culture through film but have also elevated Nollywood’s global reputation.
celebrity radar - gossips
Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians
Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians
The Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr. Hammed Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun III, has called on the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians to make peace, unity, and selflessness their guiding principles as the world marks this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
In his Sallah message, the revered monarch described Eid-el-Kabir as a “highly spiritual occasion that demands dedication, commitment, and selflessness.”
Oba Makama said the period should be used to reflect on societal happenings and promote messages of hope and unity without inciting provocation.
He urged Nigerians to live together harmoniously, irrespective of religious, political, or tribal affiliations, stressing that politicians should exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“What should be uppermost in the mind of every patriotic Nigerian is **‘Country first,’” he said.
The monarch also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant in the face of insecurity, reassuring that the armed forces and paramilitary agencies are working round the clock to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration.
“The price wise men pay for eternal liberty is vigilance. I urge everyone to celebrate moderately and extend a helping hand to the less privileged, widows, and orphans, embracing them as our brothers and sisters,” Olowu Makama added.
He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a peaceful and fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
celebrity radar - gossips
Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration
Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration
By Adeyemi Obadimu Veron
The Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II, has extended warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and the world at large on the joyous occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
In a statement made available to Newsmen, the revered monarch urged Muslims to embrace the true teachings of Islam by promoting peace, love, unity, sacrifice, and compassion during and after the festive period.
Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II noted that Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Salah, remains one of the most significant celebrations in Islam as it symbolizes total obedience, faith, and devotion to Almighty Allah, drawing inspiration from the unwavering sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who demonstrated complete submission to the will of God.
According to the monarch, the Holy Qur’an teaches believers the importance of righteousness, kindness to humanity, tolerance, and support for the less privileged in society. He emphasized that the season should serve as a reminder for all Nigerians to live in harmony irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political differences.
The royal father further called on Muslims to use the sacred period to pray fervently for peace, stability, economic growth, and sustainable development in Nigeria, stressing that national progress can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding.
Oba Saliu also encouraged the faithful to extend hands of generosity to widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society, noting that the essence of Eid-el-Kabir goes beyond celebration and feasting, but also reflects the spirit of sharing and caring for humanity as instructed in the Qur’an.
While wishing Muslims a peaceful and memorable Eid celebration, the Oloworo of Oworosoki prayed for divine blessings, prosperity, good health, and continued harmony in homes and communities.
“May this year’s Eid-el-Kabir strengthen our faith, deepen our love for one another, and bring renewed hope and abundant blessings to our nation,” the monarch stated.
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