Nollywood, is second only to the Indian film industry in number of movies produced each year and it has produced world class stars like Omotola Jalade Ekehinde, Genevieve Nnaji, Olu Jacobs, Pete Edochie, the late Sam Loco Efe, Nkem Owoh and many others.
Dikeh says that after her second movie 'Holy Cross', more movie directors and producers were willing to cast her, and she has appeared in scores of movies ever since.
The actress has received criticism on many a movie she starred in making her a hot cake for producers who want her to be part of their movies due to her logic in script interpretation.
The enchanting young actress still have a lot in store for her and she could achieve whatever she want to achieve in the industry.
Nollywood is just a step in the right direction to become a world renowned. She has the charisma, physics, face and other attributes anyone could think of to become a star. But the crazy incidents of late is not telling good of her image. It could be a strategy to be hyped by the media, but controversies easily kills a celebrity image.
Hitz can exclusively report that there is a current gang up to frustrate the career of actress, Tonto Dikeh, who is also a darling to controversies.
Tonto who hugs, chews and pampers controversy in a very helplessly controversial manner is said to have bitten more than she can chew in recent times following her rude and troublesome behaviour while on set. A certain top movie Director who wouldn't want his name mentioned, was directing a movie on a set at Asaba with Tonto Dikeh playing lead in the movie and ever since he came back to Lagos after the shoot, he has not stopped complaining about how rude and abusive Tonto played out herself all through at the location.
According to him, "Tonto Dikeh is such a rot and lacks every bit of home training, apologies to her parents.
'I tried to control myself in order not to disrupt the set, but I got upset over the kind of insult Tonto, heaped on the makeup artiste on the set. A woman who is old enough to be her mother" 'Are you stupid, don't you know what you are supposed to do? Must I remind you before you'll know you are supposed to make me up'? Those were said to be Tonto's words to the already fuming makeover artiste who was at the verge of throwing back some punch lines at her.
At this point, the director was said to have lashed at Tonto seriously and washed her in, out, left, right and center until the situation was later calmed down by the producer of the movie. This was sequaled by a certain report made available to this medium that due to her controversial lifestyle and appetite for trouble, Tonto's colleagues now isolate themselves from her, as well as some of her very close friends.
Meanwhile a check by this medium has revealed that top movie producers and directors have teamed up to frustrate Tonto Dikeh due to mannerless attitude while on set. According to them, "that little brat, apart from her addictions to marijuana and cigarette, doesn't give a damn about whose ox is gored, she abuses, throw tantrums and fight on set at every slightest provocation and we must make sure she's humiliated. She seem to have gathered to much weight and has hurriedly forgotten those days when she used to go on bended knees for a 'waka pass' role in movies. We'll teach her a lesson'. They vowed.
On the other hand, records have it that the 'Mother Controversy' as Tonto is now widely addresses by colleagues doesn't enjoy the best of relationship with most of her colleagues. Among whom are: Mercy Johnson, her arch rival, Mamma Gee, even though she was credited of introducing her to the industry big time, Genevieve, although the genesis of their disagreement was not stated, Nonso Diobi for rebuking her over abusive comments on Mercy Johnson. Other names given are, Nuella Njubigbo and Monalisa Chinda, all of whom are producers' top demands in movies.
Meanwhile producers and directors, who have worked with her, have described Mercy Johnson as a down to earth person, cheerful and cool-headed to work with. Sources who spoke exclusively to www.myemag.net claim it's the reason MJ as Mercy is famously addressed is of a very high demand in movies in the past few years, especially now that Nollywood is shifting base to Asaba in Delta State, Nigeria.
Mercy Johnson, married to Odianose Okojie, blessed with a beautiful baby, Purity has countless of movies to her credit and has won to herself, too numerous fans within a short period of time.
The extravagant lifestyle of Naija celebrities who squander their wealth on luxury and later become bankrupt is what is giving industry watchers great concern. Why do some Nigeria-known faces in the entertainment industry usually beg for fund after a successful career?
Anthony Ada Abraham and Samuel Abulude take a look at this sad development. A typical Nigeria celebrity is seen as a wealthy personality. Going on tour around the world, shooting videos and making people know they are a force to be reckoned with, buying and big cars, etc.
Most shows they perform in is outside the country and it aids them with lots of money for stage appearance, multinational endorsement and more fan base. But of late, the tide has continued to turn inasmuch as majority seek fund from the public before they could even eat.
The question entertainment enthusiasts are asking is, what have they been doing with the millions they earn?
The ordeal of African Queen Music producer, OJB Jezreel with kidney failure has revealed the lifestyle of our music celebrities. He struggled to get the required funds for his kidney transplant and had to resort to begging Nigerians to save his life and donate money for his operation. This development casts a notion of wasteful spending on our celebrities who made money when the going was good.
A lot of our contemporary artistes and music producers have smiled to the bank unlike the veteran singers of yesteryears who laboured more producing quality music and yet did not make as much as the contemporary artistes. Catching on the global hip hop trend, many of our artistes have hit it off and smiled to the banks. The Nigerian musician has laboured and tried to make himself to be reckoned with.
Today, while many have attained celebrity status via the industry and become brand ambassadors of different products and organisations, others have gradually faded out as if they never existed.
Flashback:
As an upcoming artiste or actor a lifestyle is created to help in championing a career, a lot is provided by a label for instance in the music industry like house, car and some cash for the particular period as agreed by the contract. But when the 'dough' starts coming in, the exotic lifestyle creeps in.
Some spend about hundreds of millions to get a house while others spend same and above to get 'lambogini' just to pose with it because of what they watch on MTV or Channel O. Often, this is far from their initial plan of making it big and establishing themselves as an entrepreneur in the business. And it has continue to hinder a lot of people in the entertainment industry from achieving a lot like their European counterpart.
Though people like D'banj, Don Jazzy, 2face, Omotola, the popular actors Aki and Pawpaw, Genevieve, Jim Iyke and some few others have invested in different businesses aside the usual profession, many are busy buying commodities that do not last for the future only to cry for help when they are broke.
The strugglers:
At that time, his wife was also reported to have left him because he could no longer meet the needs of his family.
Also, at an early age, Shina Peters was one of the richest musicians in Nigeria with his platinum hit Afro juju. He was a force to be reckoned with but some of his fans said it was mismanagement of funds that led to his not being famous.
Nigerian father of Juju music, King Sunny Ade and the northern veteran, Dan Maraya also advised young entertainers to invest their money on things that would benefit them and their family, instead of living a lavish lifestyle and later coming to seek help.
Nico Gravity said in his song 'Finish Timaya' that he had no beef with him. In an interview with Leadership, he said he just tried to advise him and other artistes to invest their money on things that would benefit them in the future instead of making noise of buying cars and travelling round the world only to start begging in the long run. He also said he would be glad if they collaborate in any song.
An insider said that the late Pa Rolling Dollar was totally broke and could not afford the basic necessities of life, though he was popular. But succour came his way from the Lagos state governor.
Majek Fashek:
How are the mighty fallen! This exclamation best captures the current state of New York-based Majek Fashek who waltzed his way into the hearts of music fans in the early '90s with his critically acclaimed album, Prisoner of Conscience.
All is definitely not well with the reggae icon who released a video entitled Jah Revelation. Looking from his kind of music and patronage, he is supposed to be one of the most stable artistes, but Majek has been dogged by bad publicity. After many years of turbulent sojourns, it is hoped that the rainmaker would pray the rain is sent down.
Blackface
When stories of famous entertainers who have suffered a reversal of fortunes are chronicled, the name Augustine Ahmed better known as Blackface would definitely echo and reecho. Ejected from home by landlord, deserted by wife and abandoned by friends; such is the story of Blackface, who was once a trailblazer when the raga movement took off in Nigeria. Together with his friends, Tuface and Faze, they took the music scene by storm. While Tuface, after their inglorious disbandment continues on his astronomical rise and Faze rides on the crest of his modest fame, Blackface has remained unable to find his footings. That is after a big hit with his albums. Will he bounce back or continue to wallow in penury?
Soul E
"In the life of everyman, there must be some ups and downs, it's just a normal thing that happens and I must tell you that I have learnt from them and all I can ask from God is that everything falls in place this time around. Most of the things I did before, I don't do them anymore. One of the things I learnt in my trying period is to be focused on the Lord and no matter how deep down one goes, God is mighty and able to lift him back to the greatest heights."
The above was the response of Emmanuel Okose (aka Soul E) when asked about his depreciated relevance in the Nigerian music industry. Shortly after hitting it big, especially with the tracks, Soul E Baba dey Here, In My Life, among few others, the young hip hop actor disappeared from lime-light. Since he left Colossal Entertainment, to start his own record label, Soul E International Records, all has never been well, especially with his finances. His failed marriage to older lover, Queen Ure is said to have also contributed to his thin pocket. But fans have also blamed him for lack of good planning only to seek for relevance when things are sour.
Baba Fryo
The last time anything news worthy was heard of him was on August 23, 2012, when he was beaten by policemen with their baton, kicked with their boots, handcuffed and dragged like a common thief to Isashi Police Station, along Badagry Express Way. Within the period, 1999 to 2003 when he was still waxing strong in the Nigerian entertainment industry, before fame and fortunes suddenly disappeared into thin air; no police man in Nigeria could have brutalised the Afro-reggae artiste to that extent.
Friday Igweh, popularly called Baba Fryo hit stardom in 1996 with a maiden album, Denge Pose,( a kind of dance one throws his leg as if suffering from waist pain) after which he released a sequel album, Notice Me, in 1999, and Country No Send, in 2003. Within those years,he reigned supreme. But today, it seems 'he can't denge and pose' again.
Marvellous Benji
Chinua Achebe's book, "Things Fall Apart" best captures Marvellous Benji's grace to grass fall. Back in the days when Suo, Konto, (a dance that involves both the hands and legs simultaneously as if pulling a string) and Galala were the reigning dances in Nigeria, Marvellous Benji, whose real name is Benjamin Ukueje also reigned alongside the era. But shortly after, his name, just like the dance pattern, gradually went into limbo – a reason he is currently experiencing hard times. In 2012, he tried relaunching himself into the music industry with two singles, Iwo Ni Mofe, and My Life. Though it was a good effort, but his expectations were never met.
In an interview on his current state with Leadership, the artiste in a sober voice said he is working on a big hit in the pipeline and would let the public know when the meal is ready.
Ekwe
Sunday Osakuni, popularly known as Original Stereoman Ekwe, is no doubt among the artistes with riches to rag stories. According to the artiste whose hit song, E dey Pain Me and once a Glo Ambassador, made waves a few years back. His ordeal began after he was invited by homicide detectives, Force CID Panti, Yaba–Lagos, following an allegation that he strangled and killed his estranged wife, Rukayat Idris in April 2012. The incident, no doubt, affected the fortunes and career of the dread-locked artiste. For almost a year now, shows have eluded him. And the matter is worsened by the absence of a trending song from the Delta State-born Stereo man. We hope he will rise to fall no more.
Eddy Remedy
Eddy Ashiedu-Brown, better known as Eddy Montana, a former member of the defunct musical group, Remedies, has had his own share of misfortunes in the nation's entertainment industry. He seems the only unsuccessful member of the defunct Remedies. He had a messy separation from his wife, Kenny Saint Brown of Kennis Music and has not been able to resuscitate his music career since he dropped the arrival of Eddy Remedy. His case is like the unfortunate hunter who caught a big Antelope but in a twinkle of an eye, let loose.
Daddy Fresh
The former dance-hall guru, who reigned alongside Daddy Showkey and Baba Fryo, has left the industry that once brought him fame and fortunes. His last attempt at reclaiming his lost spot on the music scene was a monumental failure and ever since, nobody knows his whereabouts musically.
Fada U-turn
The name Femi Mayomi might not ring a bell in many ears. But once Fada U-turn is mentioned, people will scream and are bound to ask, "where is him now?" This talented singer, whose hit track, Yetunde, in 1999, became a household number is today struggling with life as a result of fortunes reversal.
At the moment, he is planning to stage a comeback into the industry, especially with the recent release of his brand new single entitled Gbafun Remix, which features K-Solo. The song which was also produced by K-Solo is the first single from Fada U-turn's forthcoming double album – Oba Shakara and Obaluaye, from the stables of Shakara sounds. We hope it would be a progressive U-turn this time around.
The Way Forward
Entertainers should know that they are public figures and people (fans) are watching and monitoring their progression especially when they have made it big. It's left for them to work for the future and invest in any way they can, even if it means opening a kiosk to aid them during the rainy day.
Below is a brief part of a recent chat where Foluke Darama talk about her action:
Since you got married, you hardly talk about your new status. Why?
Well, I thank God. I did not plan for it. I had told myself that I was out of it, and I was done with it. It just happened. I am happy with my husband. I thank God that I have a man that understands me and has taken me for who I am. He is someone who tells me to keep giving my best. He gives me a lot of push.
Many say the marriage is that of convenience, and it's all about the money. What is your reaction to this?
It is not at all about material things. In fact, if it is about material things, I would not be in this marriage; I will be somewhere else. What I need and prayed to God for is a man who will love me and understand me, and I got my wish.
Are you planning to have children with your new husband?
Oh sure. Children are the joy of every marriage and we definitely look forward to having children together.
Are you sometimes scared that this one might end up like the first?
That I believe is not a possibility. We are attracted emotionally to each other, and we both have a spiritual connection, which we didn't hesitate to find out all the way. My mum went out to pray about it with men of God. I also went out to pray and fasted over it. He had a past; I have mine, so the two of us coming together is like we don't have a choice than to make it work for both of us. If you have noticed, both our families, all the family members were involved, which is unusual. Normally, you find one or two family members saying one thing or the other, but in this case, everybody, my father-in-law, my brothers, my brothers and sisters-in-law, everybody, including my uncle and parents were positive. So, at the end of the day, you find that God is actually telling us something. So, I needed that spiritual conviction.
The first time, not that I didn't need the spiritual conviction, but then I wasn't in a hurry, everything people told me was like let us do it. But when I was about getting married, I had this strong heartbeat, it was very strong, but I looked at it and said maybe it's maturity and I know it is maturity. I guess it's just peace of mind. There is a difference between infatuation and love and this you may not know when you are young. Now, I know am in love with the right person, and my mind is at peace. We have our fights, we have our quarrels, but we understand we are both in something that has to work.
Philip Samuel, 07063209595 twitter: @AwesomeBillsam
Thanks
It's all smiles for the Pop singer who is finally enjoying superstardom and wealth all off one monster hit song titled 'Limpopo'.
How it started for KCEE
Kingsley Okonkwo started like every other upcoming act in Nigeria – the hard way. In the early 2000s, he met with former partner Presh (Precious John) in a church choir. They met up with a third member, named the group KC Presh and released their first single 'Ose baba', shot a video for it, receiving mild success.
Partying ways with the third member in 2002, the duo entered the first ever edition of Nigerian Breweries STAR QUEST talent show and won beating the likes of Asa, Psquare, Klint da Drunk, Mr Raw (formerly known as Nigga Raw). As part of the spoils, KC Presh signed a deal with Kennis Music (the biggest record label in Nigeria at the time) and made a big debut.
During their time at Kennis, KC Presh never attained super status, it always seemed like they were one hit away. They soon parted ways with the label and set up shop on their own with KP Records. Their first instalment was the OJB assisted 'Segemenge' off the album 'Sio Nkpo' which bagged them a Channel O nomination and more fame. But while the likes of D'banj and the Mo'Hits were flying high with chart topping singles and back-to-back hits, KC Presh struggled with their careers. They tried once again with KCEE's wealthy brother intervening – they restructured, re-launched the label as 'Blingz Record', affiliated with Grafton Records in the South and released a new album 'No Time' with the lead single 'Shokori bobo'. All this however did not result in mega success, infact the duo's careers' imploded.
How KCEE got his groove back
After several attempts to stage a comeback, the duo eventually split on good terms (friends told Nigerian Entertainment Today KCEE and Presh continued to stay in the same house for months). That separation seemed to be the break for KCEE who immediately put in work releasing his debut single 'Now I know'. He took it from there with bigger hits 'Okpekete' (with Davido), 'Give it to me' (feat Flavour) all under his new label Five Star Music. The signs were there but it was the huge hit 'Limpopo' that shattered all barriers and planted him as a bona fide hit-maker and music star.
Written by R&B singer Harrysong and produced by Del B, the song has turned a once undesired KCEE into a fans' favourite, darling of promoters. That single hit has ushered him into the A list, with an MTN endorsement deal as icing.
The story hear is not KCEE's new cars (thanks to his bigger brother, he's always lived a very posh lifestyle) but his struggle and eventual breakthough.
Philip Samuel, 07063209595 twitter: @AwesomeBillsam
Thanks
"You have a man, Chinda, who suffers no life-threatening injuries but who is flown on the president's order to London at public expense. You have a man who could have been treated in any local hospital for superficial injuries but was shamelessly shipped abroad...
"You have an entire army of men flown from Nigeria to London in First Class at public expense to go and pose for fake pictures and collect large allowances all because they have in Abuja a man who does not give a damn about fighting corruption. It gives an all-familiar meaning to the term:
Wike-leaks!"
Investigations by Sahara Reporters show that Rivers State legislator, Hon Michael Chinda, was discharged from London's Bupa Cromwell Hospital on Saturday, a day after the Minister of State for Education, Nyeson Wike, took a delegation there on a "fake" courtesy visit and posed for pictures by his bedside.
A hospital official disclosed in London on Wednesday that Hon Chinda had since
been discharged because he did not have any life-threatening injuries.
But photos were circulated by Nyesom Wike on Sunday showing a group of politicians from Rivers State, led by him in an "hospital room". The pictures were choreographed to present Hon Chinda as having suffered grave injuries in the brutal attack in the House of Assembly, and become bedridden.
The "fake" delegation trip to London was reportedly bankrolled by Wike's office and the presidency, costing Nigerian taxpayers several thousands of British pounds in flight, food and hotel accommodation. Ironically, it is at a time Nigerian universities had been shut down due to lack of funding from the government.
A credible source told Sahara Reporters that the main reason behind the Minister's sponsorship of Chinda's trip was to garner sympathy for the five lawmakers that invaded the Rivers House of Assembly in an attempt to overthrow the Speaker and later impeach Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
Wike's London delegation includes former deputy speaker of the House of Reps, Austin Opara; President of Nigeria Bar Association, Okey Wali; former state Treasurer of Action Congress of Nigeria, Kenneth Kobani; former Transport Minister, Abiye Sekibo; Rivers State factional PDP Chairman, Felix Obuah; and a former Commissioner in Rivers State, Mr. Bonny Iyaye.
"This trip contains all the elements of what is wrong with Nigeria," an analyst told Sahara Reporters.
