Episode three of Africa Magic Heartbeat picked up exactly where the tension left off, and if episode two was about shifting power, this one was about using it.

After winning the “Score the Kiss” challenge, Igwe made his choice and selected Toria to join him in the Love Nest. The decision felt deliberate and a little dangerous, confirming his growing reputation as the wildcard of the season. As the rest of the house watched, it became clear that Igwe was no longer just reacting to attention. He was actively shaping the chaos.

With the Love Nest decided, the remaining singles were left to chance. Numbers were drawn, and new pairings emerged for the night. Alvin found himself paired with Hilda, Queen Latifa with Henri, and Ken with Shekinah. But the pairing that raised eyebrows was Chidera and Kena, who once again picked matching numbers. At this point, it felt less like a coincidence and more like the universe insisting on unfinished business.

The next morning brought a poolside game that quickly turned uncomfortable. When Queen Latifa was asked to suck Igwe’s toe and did so without hesitation, all eyes shifted to Ken. The moment lingered, and the tension was unmistakable.

Things escalated further when it was Igwe’s turn. Asked to walk up to the person he found most attractive and kiss them, he initially moved toward Chidera, clearly enjoying the suspense. At the last second, he switched direction and kissed Queen Latifa instead. The reaction was immediate. Ken later admitted it was difficult to watch, and episode three made it clear that jealousy was no longer subtle.

As the day progressed, it became obvious that some of the earlier pairings were already losing steam. They struggled to find rhythm, except for Chidera and Kena who continued growing closer. Elsewhere, Shekinah appeared to shift her focus toward Igwe, a move that felt less about connection and more about sending a message to Alvin.

Toria, meanwhile, pulled Alvin aside for a heart-to-heart conversation. She openly expressed her discomfort, pointing out that he seemed torn between her and Shekinah. Calling herself possessive and jealous, she asked him to be honest and clear the air. Before the conversation could settle, Shekinah arrived, and the tension became too much. Toria chose to walk away.

As night fell, host Seyitan Atigarin introduced a new Heartbeat challenge centred on seductive dancing. This time, the women took the floor while the men watched and scored. According to Seyitan, the goal was simple: explore, take risks, and avoid locking into early comfort zones. Toria sat out the challenge due to feeling unwell, but the rest of the ladies came prepared.

Queen Latifa dominated the round, repeatedly scoring perfect tens from the men. When the final scores were tallied, she emerged the winner and earned the power to choose who would join her in the Love Nest.

All eyes turned to Ken. But Latifa had other plans.

Instead of choosing familiarity, she announced she wanted fresh blood. The decision landed like a bombshell and brought episode three to a close on a cliffhanger that promised even more disruption.

If episode three proved anything, it is that comfort does not last long on Heartbeat. Power keeps changing hands, jealousy is no longer hidden, and choices are starting to carry real consequences.

Catch the next episode of Heartbeat on Africa Magic Showcase, DStv Channel 151 and GOtv Channel 8, at 9 pm on Sunday. If you missed episode 3, catch up on Showmax, the DStv or GOtv Stream apps or via the Catch Up feature on your decoder.

By Adedapo Adesanya

Major Nigerian record labels have kicked against a plan by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) to disburse music copyright levies to the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN).

According to a report by Pulse Nigeria, the opposition is being led by the umbrella body representing several leading Nigerian record labels – Record Label Proprietors Initiative Limited (ReLPI) – an industry group that includes Mavin Records, Chocolate City, and Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) among others.

According to the publication, ReLPI argues that the NCC’s decision to channel the levy solely through MCSN is flawed and does not reflect the structure of rights ownership in sound recordings. MCSN is recognised by the NCC as the only Collective Management Organization (CMO) allowed to license, monitor, and distribute royalties for Musical Works and Sound Recordings in Nigeria.

However, at At the centre of the dispute is the private copying levy, a statutory compensation meant to remunerate rights holders for unauthorised private copying of copyrighted works, such as music copied onto personal devices.

According to ReLPI, sound recording owners—primarily record labels—are major beneficiaries under the law but were not adequately consulted or represented in the proposed distribution framework. They maintained that Section 89(3) of the Copyright Act 2022 allows the NCC to disburse such levies not only to approved collective management organisations (CMOs) but also to other representatives of rights holders.

ReLPI formally raised concerns with the NCC, stressing that MCSN does not have the mandate to collect or distribute royalties on behalf of its members in a letter dated January 21, 2025.

The controversy has also drawn international attention, particularly from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which represents record labels worldwide. Pulse Nigeria reported that the body wrote to the NCC on January 22, 2026, urging transparency and fairness in the disbursement process.

IFPI emphasised that the portion of the levy attributable to sound recordings must be paid directly to legitimate rights holders or bodies with a clear and unequivocal mandate to represent them.

Despite these objections, the NCC has reportedly maintained its position, insisting that MCSN remains the only recognised CMO in the Nigerian music sector and will therefore receive the funds. ReLPI members claim they have been informed that the commission intends to proceed with the payment.

Business Post reports that this development has reignited broader debates about governance and transparency in Nigeria’s music copyright ecosystem.

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Venusta Fashion Show is officially gearing up for its highly anticipated 4th edition, following a sold-out atmosphere and over 200 attendees at its last outing. This year’s edition promises more style, more impact, and a breathtaking experience for designers, brands, and fashion enthusiasts.

Produced by Panda Media Entertainment and curated by Mr Michael “ICHIE PANDA” Okolie, Venusta has become a fast growing platform at the intersection of fashion, media, and creative excellence, championing bold African narratives and industry collaboration.

Adding to the excitement, VENUSTA will also unveil the second issue of Venusta Magazine, ushering in a new editorial chapter with Chichebe Dike announced as Editor-in-Chief. The upcoming issue is set to deliver sharper storytelling, elevated visuals, and conversations shaping the future of African fashion.

Speaking on the vision behind the platform, founder Mr Okolie notes, “There is an extraordinary wealth of untapped talent within the African fashion industry, from designers to models and creative storytellers whose voices deserve global visibility. Venusta was created as a platform to amplify these talents, provide meaningful exposure, and celebrate the richness of African culture through art, fashion, and collaboration. Beyond the runway, Venusta is a movement that honours identity, creativity, and the power of African expression.”

In another major reveal, anticipation is building around the Face of Venusta 2026, as the current reigning face, Miss Jessica Ogbulie, prepares to pass the torch. The search for the next face signals Venusta’s continued commitment to celebrating confidence, individuality, and modern African beauty.

With each edition raising the bar, the 4th Venusta Fashion Show is shaping up to be more than a runway, it’s a cultural moment and a strategic platform for brands, sponsors, and partners looking to align with innovation, visibility, and influence within Africa’s fashion ecosystem.

According to the organisers, the event date, venue, call for designers, sponsorship and partnership opportunities will be announced in due course.