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𝐈 𝐖𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐓𝐨 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐀 𝐌𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐞 𝐈𝐟 𝐈𝐭 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐝 — 𝐎𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐚

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, fondly known as “Omosexy,” has made it clear that she will not engage in forced dance routines as a means of promoting films, emphasizing authenticity and professionalism in her career approach.

In a recent interview featured by Punch Newspapers and TVC Entertainment, the award-winning actress stated that while she enjoys dancing for fun and personal enjoyment, she draws the line at using it as a promotional tool if it feels inauthentic or pressured.

“I’m sorry, but I won’t be dancing to market or promote my movie. It’s not professional,” Omotola reportedly said. She added that she prefers to focus on traditional promotion methods, such as going around to discuss and showcase the work after putting in the effort on set.

This stance comes amid ongoing discussions in Nollywood about evolving film promotion tactics, including the popular use of viral dance challenges, skits, and social media trends to hype movies, strategies often embraced by younger stars and filmmakers.

Omotola’s comments follow her recent milestone as a director with her debut feature film, Mother’s Love, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2025. The film, exploring profound themes, is slated for a Lagos premiere in early 2026 ahead of a wider global release.

The actress, who has been a dominant force in Nollywood for over three decades with hundreds of films to her credit, stressed her preference for genuine engagement over performative trends that may not align with her personal or professional style.

Her opinion has sparked mixed reactions online, with fans praising her for maintaining her dignity and authenticity, while others note that dance promotions have proven effective for box-office success in recent times.

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde continues to inspire as an actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian, consistently advocating for substance over spectacle in the entertainment industry.

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𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗿𝘆𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗴’𝘀 𝗲𝘅-𝘄𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝘂𝗽 𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻 ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Alexer Pere, the estranged wife of Nigerian singer Harrison Tare Okiri, better known as Harrysong, has announced that she is temporarily giving up custody of their two young children, aged four and three.

In a tearful video shared on her Instagram story on Thursday morning, Alexer described the decision as one of the hardest she has ever made. She revealed that she has been the primary caregiver for the children since the couple’s separation two years ago, handling their schooling and daily needs from her home while the singer has only occasional visits.

Alexer accused Harrysong of persistent harassment and frustration since she refused to reconcile and return to the marriage. She claimed he has interfered in her life, including unannounced visits and efforts to pressure her through legal means, such as a recent petition containing what she described as false claims.

“I have had enough,” she said in the video. “I am going to give him custody for now. That doesn’t mean I won’t come back for my children.” She emphasized her intention to fight for them again when the time is right, noting the children’s young ages make the situation particularly painful.

Alexer expressed concerns about the children’s well-being under their father’s care, alleging he is often absent and that they would primarily be looked after by domestic staff. “Nothing should happen to my children,” she warned, adding, “I’m not backing down, but I need to find my life since you said you can take care of them very well.”

The couple’s marital troubles first became public in early 2024, with Alexer declaring herself a “free woman” by January 2025 amid accusations and counter-accusations on social media. The ongoing dispute has involved claims of co-parenting failures, emotional abuse, and legal battles.

Neither Harrysong nor his representatives have publicly responded to the video at the time of this report.

The situation underscores the challenges many face in high-profile separations involving child custody.

 

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‎ ‎𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 ‘𝗕𝗮𝗮𝗹𝗲’ 𝗯𝘆 𝗔𝗹𝗮𝗮𝗳𝗶𝗻’𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿, 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗸𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The Alaafin of Oyo’s palace has defended the recent installation of a new Baale by one of the monarch’s wives, describing it as fully in line with established traditions.

According to a statement from the palace, the installation of Alhaji Chief Oyedokun Sulaiman Akinade as the Baale of Ona-Aka community in Oyo town by Ayaba Abiwunmi Owoade, wife of the Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, is valid and follows long-standing Oyo chieftaincy customs.

The palace spokesperson emphasized that Oyo tradition permits an Ayaba (queen) to preside over the installation of a Baale when directed by the Kabiyesi (the Alaafin). This practice is not new and aligns with historical precedents in the kingdom.

During the ceremony held at the ancient Alaafin Palace, Ayaba Abiwunmi Owoade counseled the new Baale to prioritize building strong networks rooted in trust and respect. She urged him to foster a sense of belonging and community identity, bridge gaps between groups, promote inclusivity, and prevent divisions that could spark internal conflicts.

The Ayaba also charged the new community head to act as an arbitrator in household and community disputes, maintain unflinching loyalty to the Alaafin, and encourage cooperation among residents for the overall progress and development of Ona-Aka.

The crowning has drawn mixed reactions, with some questioning the optics in the social media era, while others noted that similar installations by royal wives occurred in the past (including during the reign of the late Alaafin Lamidi Adeyemi III), though less publicly visible before widespread digital coverage.

The palace reaffirms that such delegations reflect the structured roles within the Oyo royal household and do not deviate from cultural norms. The installation underscores ongoing efforts to uphold Yoruba traditions while promoting peace, unity, and community advancement under the current Alaafin’s reign.

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South Korea’s Former First Lady Kim Keon Hee Sentenced to 20 Months in Prison for Accepting Bribes

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

South Korea’s Seoul Central District Court on Wednesday sentenced former First Lady Kim Keon Hee to 20 months in prison for bribery. The conviction comes from her acceptance of luxury gifts from officials linked to the controversial Unification Church in exchange for political and business favors.

The 52-year-old wife of ousted former President Yoon Suk Yeol was found guilty of receiving items worth approximately 80 million won (about $56,000 or £40,600), including a Graff diamond necklace, Chanel handbags, and other high-end gifts between April and July 2022. Prosecutors alleged these were provided in return for influence peddling during her husband’s presidency.

The court, led by Judge Woo In-sung, emphasized that while the role of first lady holds no formal executive power, it carries symbolic weight as a representative of the nation. “A person in such a position must not be a bad example to the public,” the judge stated in the televised verdict, noting that Kim had exploited her proximity to power for personal gain. However, the bench highlighted mitigating factors: Kim did not actively solicit the bribes and had no significant prior criminal record. She was acquitted on two other charges, stock price manipulation related to Deutsch Motors and violations of the Political Funds Act—due to insufficient evidence.

Prosecutors from the special counsel team, led by Min Joong-ki, had sought a much harsher 15-year prison term, along with fines totaling around 2 billion won (approximately $1.4 million) and forfeiture of related gains. They described the case as a severe abuse of power that undermined South Korean institutions. The team has indicated it will appeal the verdict, particularly the lighter sentence and acquittals.

Kim, who has been detained since August 2025 over concerns she might tamper with evidence, denied all allegations throughout the trial, calling them “deeply unjust.” She admitted to receiving some items, such as Chanel bags, but claimed they were returned unused. Her legal team expressed gratitude for parts of the ruling but described the 20-month term as “relatively high” and said they would review options for an appeal.

The Unification Church, a controversial religious movement with a global following and vast business interests, denied any quid pro quo. Church leader Han Hak-ja, also on trial in related cases, has rejected claims of directing bribes.

This marks a historic low point for the former presidential couple. Yoon Suk Yeol, impeached and removed from office in early 2025 following his short-lived declaration of martial law in December 2024, was recently sentenced to five years in prison for abuse of power and obstructing justice. He faces additional trials, including on insurrection charges that could carry life imprisonment or even the death penalty (though South Korea has observed a de facto moratorium on executions since 1997).

The simultaneous convictions of both Yoon and Kim make them the first former South Korean presidential couple to be jailed at the same time, underscoring the dramatic fallout from the 2024 martial law crisis and ensuing scandals.

Kim’s case is not fully resolved; she faces separate upcoming trials related to allegations of recruiting Unification Church members into Yoon’s People Power Party and other influence-peddling claims.The ruling has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters of the couple rallied outside the court, while the opposition Democratic Party criticized it as too lenient, arguing it signals tolerance for elite corruption.

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‎𝗜𝘆𝗮𝗯𝗼 𝗢𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗻𝗷𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗣𝗖, 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗲𝘅-𝗢𝗴𝘂𝗻 𝗟𝗚 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿 ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, has reportedly registered as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State. The development, confirmed by political sources close to the family, occurred on Tuesday at Ibogun Ward 11 in Ifo Local Government Area.

Hon. Biodun Ajayi, a former chairman of Abeokuta South Local Government and a known associate of the Obasanjo family, made the disclosure to journalists. According to Ajayi, Prof. Obasanjo completed her online registration as a member of the ruling party during the ongoing membership drive.

A former House of Representatives member from the area, speaking anonymously, corroborated the registration, describing it as accurate. Efforts to obtain an official confirmation from the Ogun State APC leadership were unsuccessful, with the party’s Director of Publicity, Mr. Femi Nuberu, stating only that the membership registration remains open to all eligible Nigerians aged 18 and above, without directly addressing the specific claim.

The move has sparked significant speculation in Ogun State’s political circles, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections. Prof. Obasanjo, a former senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District (2007–2011) under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and ex-Commissioner for Health in Ogun State, has largely stayed out of active politics in recent years. However, her re-emergence follows the appearance of campaign-style billboards bearing her name and image in parts of Abeokuta late last year, with messages like “In Ogun State, we know ourselves. Sen (Prof) Iyabo Obasanjo. Omo wa ni, eniyan wa ni, ara wa ni.”

Political analysts note the surprise element in her reported alignment with the APC, given her father’s critical stance toward the party and his support for the Labour Party’s Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election. Observers had previously speculated she might return to the PDP or join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party associated with her father’s political influence in the past.

This development adds to the growing list of high-profile shifts in Ogun politics as various figures position themselves for future contests, including potential gubernatorial ambitions. No official statement has been issued by Prof. Obasanjo herself regarding her intentions or any political aspirations.

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𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗻𝗮𝗯 𝗳𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗚𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗮

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested two female suspects for allegedly trafficking a 16-year-old girl to Ghana.

The suspects, identified as Uzoma Nwabueze and Precious Monday, were apprehended on the evening of January 26, 2026, in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State. The arrest followed credible, technology-driven intelligence regarding the disappearance of the minor, Miss Oluebube Chukwuma, from the same community.

According to the police spokesperson, during interrogation, the suspects confessed to their involvement in the girl’s disappearance and revealed that she is currently in Ghana. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for further investigation.

Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu has directed operatives to trace the victim’s location in Ghana, identify all individuals connected to the trafficking, and pursue additional arrests. Efforts are underway to secure the safe return and rescue of the minor.

This incident shows the persistent challenge of cross-border human trafficking in the region, often targeting vulnerable young girls under false pretenses of better opportunities. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to combating such crimes and urged the public to report suspicious activities involving minors promptly.

The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.

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Women need to live alone before marriage’– Nollywood Actress Teniola Aladese ‎ ‎ ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress and producer Teniola Aladese has sparked widespread discussion with her candid advice that many women should experience living independently before entering marriage, arguing it helps build self-awareness, set boundaries, and avoid regrets in relationships.

In a recent episode of the That’s What She Said vodcast/podcast, the actress shared her perspective on the common cultural pattern in Nigeria where women transition directly from their parents’ home to their husband’s without an interim phase of solo living. She emphasized that this lack of independence often leads to surprises and challenges once married.

“A lot of women just go from their family’s houses to their husband’s house,” Aladese stated. “But they don’t particularly know what they like, they don’t know what kind of trait their husband-to-be has. So they are shocked when they enter into the home and they see some mannerisms that they haven’t experienced before.”

She continued: “But I feel like when you live alone before getting married, you get to know yourself, you get to know what you like, you get to know the nonsense you would take and the nonsense you would not take. But when you just enter into marriage without any experience of living on your own, that is when everything starts shocking you and regrets creep in.”

The 32-year-old actress, born on September 18, 1993, in Lagos State (the sixth of six children), studied Mass Communication at Covenant University, Ota. She has built a multifaceted career in Nollywood, starting behind the scenes as a production coordinator and line producer on projects like Africa Magic Original Films and Jemeji (where she also acted as Akweyon). She gained prominence for her role as the villainous Folashade “FK” Kuku in the TV series Unbroken, and has appeared in films and series such as Fade, Her, Déjà Vu, Lara of Lagos, and Perfectly Flawed. Aladese has also worked as a casting director and consultant.

Her comments, shared widely across social media platforms including Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and blogs have ignited debates online. Many fans and commentators praised her for promoting self-discovery and independence, while others weighed in on cultural norms around marriage and gender roles in Nigerian society.

Aladese’s statement aligns with growing conversations in entertainment circles about personal growth, mental preparedness for marriage, and challenging traditional expectations. As one of Nollywood’s rising talents known for her thoughtful insights both on and off screen, her views continue to resonate with audiences navigating modern relationships.

 

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Bimbo Ademoye relieved as YouTube copyright dispute ends in her favour ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Bimbo Ademoye has expressed immense relief and gratitude after a prolonged YouTube copyright dispute over her film Where Love Lives was resolved in her favor, restoring full control and monetization of her content.

The issue stemmed from a false copyright claim placed on a song featured in the movie by an individual identified as Emmanuel Davies. This led to the demonetization of Ademoye’s YouTube upload of the film, which had garnered significant views and popularity since its release. Ademoye had publicly called out the claimant in emotional social media posts, accusing him of piracy by uploading her movie without permission, extracting and claiming ownership of the soundtrack, and demanding the immediate reversal of the claim to avoid further action.

In a recent Instagram post, Ademoye shared her joy and relief, thanking her mother, friends, creative team, fans, and supporters who stood by her during the ordeal. She reportedly wrote sentiments along the lines of “God don’t play about me,” celebrating the victory and the removal of the false claim, which allowed her to regain full monetization and proper attribution for her work.

Where Love Lives, one of Ademoye’s YouTube releases, had achieved viral success with millions of views, underscoring her growing influence as a content creator beyond traditional cinema. The film, produced under her banner, showcases her signature storytelling style that resonates with audiences.

Fans and industry observers have praised Ademoye’s resilience in standing up against content theft and copyright abuse, a persistent challenge in Nollywood’s digital space. Many see this as a win not just for her, but for creators fighting to protect their intellectual property on platforms like YouTube.

Ademoye continues to thrive as one of Nigeria’s most prolific filmmakers and actresses, with a string of successful projects across cinema and online streaming.

The film Where Love Lives remains available on her official YouTube channel, now fully monetized and free from the disputed claim, allowing her to continue earning from her hard work and connecting with her global audience.

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Funke Akindele reacts as Sanwo-Olu watches her film

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has described a recent private screening of her latest movie as a “truly humbling moment” after Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu personally watched the film and offered thoughtful feedback.

The movie in question is Behind The Scenes, which Akindele wrote, directed, and produced under her Funke Akindele Network banner. Released in December 2025, the film has achieved massive commercial success, surpassing the ₦2 billion mark at the box office (with some reports citing even higher figures like ₦2.4 billion), making it one of the highest-grossing Nigerian films ever and a landmark for the Nollywood industry.

In a heartfelt post shared on her social media (including Instagram and X), Akindele expressed deep gratitude and emotion over the governor’s gesture. She wrote:

“A truly humbling moment as the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, watched my movie BEHIND THE SCENES. Moments like this remind me that when you stay committed to your craft and remain consistent, your work will speak for you in places you never imagined. I feel so fulfilled and happy knowing this film touched many hearts and that the message I hoped to pass across was felt. Thank you, Your Excellency, for your time and thoughtful feedback. 🙏🏾”

The screening appears to have been a private viewing, where Governor Sanwo-Olu attended alongside Akindele. In his own statement, the governor praised the film for capturing the heart of the nation and congratulated the team on its record-breaking performance. He highlighted Akindele’s dedication, grit, and vision as setting new standards for Nollywood and proving the global potential of local stories.

The moment has garnered widespread admiration online, with fans and media outlets celebrating the recognition from a high-profile figure like the Lagos governor, especially notable given Akindele’s past political involvement (she ran for deputy governor in Lagos in 2021). Many see it as a full-circle achievement, underscoring how her commitment to storytelling has earned institutional and cultural validation.

Behind The Scenes continues its theatrical run in cinemas across Nigeria, as well as in international markets including the UK, USA, and Canada. The film is being lauded for its creative storytelling, emotional depth, and powerful message, resonating strongly with audiences and contributing to the growing wave of successful Nigerian productions.

This endorsement from Governor Sanwo-Olu further cements Behind The Scenes as not just a box-office hit, but a culturally significant work that’s inspiring both creators and viewers alike.

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Yeni Kuti Declares ‘Wizkid Is My Friend’ Amid Escalating Feud with Seun Kuti

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Yeni Kuti, the eldest daughter of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has broken her silence on the heated online feud between her brother, Seun Kuti, and Grammy-winning superstar Wizkid, affectionately calling the singer her “padi” (friend) and expressing her deep affection for him despite the controversy.

The dispute erupted earlier this week when Seun Kuti accused Wizkid’s fanbase (known as Wizkid FC) of disrespecting their late father’s legacy by comparing Wizkid favorably to Fela or claiming superiority in influence. The exchange quickly escalated into personal insults on social media, with both artists trading barbs and drawing in fans, celebrities, and public figures.

Speaking on TVC’s morning show Your View on Thursday, Yeni Kuti emphasized her longstanding personal connection to Wizkid, recalling his early days in the music scene. “I love Wizkid a lot. You know, Wizkid is my padi now,” she said. “When two giants fight, it’s the grass that suffers. I refuse to enter some of the insults that they are hauling because I love Wizkid a lot. Wizkid is my padi now and my so friend. We have come a long way together. I remember when we started that shrine, he was a backup singer at the shrine during Felabration.”

Yeni expressed disappointment that the situation spiraled, particularly noting that Wizkid could have intervened earlier to curb escalating insults directed at Fela. “All the insults people have been hurling towards Fela, I wish he (Wizkid) had put a stop to it, but he didn’t,” she added. She also highlighted the broader impact, warning that the public spat reflects poorly on Nigeria rather than just the Kuti family. “You’re dirtying Nigeria, not Fela’s family,” she stated, urging peace and unity, especially with Fela’s legacy set to be celebrated at the upcoming Grammy Awards.

Yeni stressed her refusal to take sides aggressively, prioritizing her friendship with Wizkid and the shared history between him and the Kuti family through events like Felabration at the New Afrika Shrine. Her comments have caused mixed reactions online, with some praising her maturity and calls for peace, while others debate the origins of the conflict and loyalty to Fela’s heritage.

The feud continues to generate buzz across Nigerian entertainment circles, highlighting tensions around legacy, generational shifts in Afrobeat/Afropop, and fan-driven comparisons. Neither Wizkid nor Seun Kuti has publicly responded directly to Yeni’s statements as of press time.

 

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