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Court Dismisses MultiChoice Plea to Stop NBC Audit

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By Adedapo Adesanya

A Federal High Court in Abuja has refused to grant an application filed by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited seeking an interim order restraining the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from requesting any financial, accounting, or tax documents from them.

Justice James Omotosho, in a ruling on the ex-parte motion moved by the applicant’s counsel, Mr Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN), rather directed all parties, in the interest of justice, not to take any step that could make the outcome of the suit nugatory.

Although the ruling was delivered on Wednesday, its certified true copy was sighted on Friday.

“The ex-parte order for Interim Injunction dated 8th day of May, 2024 and filed 16th day of May, 2024 is hereby refused,” he declared.

Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter until May 30 for a hearing of the motion on notice.

MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and Details Nigeria Limited, a provider of the subscription-based digital terrestrial television service known as GOtv, are 1st and 2nd applicants.

In the ex-parte motion marked FHC/ABJ/CS/652/2024 dated May 8 and filed May 16 by their lawyer, they sued NBC as the sole respondent.

The applicants sought three reliefs, including an order of interim injunction, restraining NBC from carrying out any investigations of the companies to determine their annual income or NBC levy for the years between 2014 and 2024 pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

They sought an order of interim injunction restraining NBC from requesting, demanding and or receiving any financial, accounting or tax documents from the companies other than the annual audited accounts of the companies already submitted to the commission.

They said this was in according to Section 2 (10) (b) of the NBC Code 6th Edition to determine her remittance of NBC levy for the 2014 to 2024 years of account pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

They equally prayed an order of interim injunction restraining the commission from sanctioning, fining or suspending the companies’ license pursuant to the threats contained in its letter dated April 29 to them, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

In the affidavit deposed to by the companies’ Head of Compliance, Mr Gozie Onumonu, he averred that the firms were mandated under the various NBC Codes to pay a certain percentage of their income as annual NBC levy to the respondent.

He said that the current code; NBC Code 6th Edition, provides for 2.5 per cent of the income of a broadcaster to be paid to the respondent yearly as an annual NBC levy while the erstwhile code which was amended in 2019 provides for 1.5% of the income of a broadcaster to be paid to the defendant yearly as an annual levy.

He claimed that the companies had never defaulted in paying their annual levy to the commission.

“Income as provided by the NBC Code 6th Edition is not defined nor is it defined in any other previous editions nor in the NBC Act 2004.

“As a result of the lack of definition of what an income is, there was a dispute between the applicants and the respondent in the year 2014 about whether income should be turnover or revenue minus the cost of production.

“After due negotiations, meetings, etc., between the applicants and the respondent, it was agreed by the applicants and respondent that income should be revenue minus cost of production.

“In the year 2014, when the applicants subtracted the cost of production from their revenue in order to arrive at the then 1.5 per cent required of the applicants under the NBC Code 5th Edition, what was left for the applicants to pay to the defendant in compliance with the 1.5 per cent requirement of the NBC Code 5th Edition was negligible.

“The amount the respondent would have been entitled to, from the applicants as annual NBC levy between 2014 to 2019 if the applicants were to strictly pay the 1.5 per cent annual NBC levy provided by the 5th Edition of the Code was small and the respondent might not be able to carry out its administrative functions in view of its financial needs.

“Specifically, in the year 2014 and 2015, the amount that would have been due to the defendant as 1.5 per cent of the annual income of the 1st applicant was N2.1 million (N2,167,254)

“As a result, the respondent beseeched the applicants to consent to the payment of a fixed sum of N500 million (N500,000,000) as annual levy for the applicants’ licence period of 2014 to 2019 the sum of which was far more than what the plaintiffs were supposed to be paying to the respondent if the applicants were to pay only the 1.5 per cent of their annual income as provided by the NBC Code.

“For the years 2014 to 2019 the respondent wants to investigate to verify whether the applicants paid up to 2.5 per cent of their annual incomes as annual NBC levy, the operational NBC Code then was the NBC Code, 5th Edition and it requires broadcaster to pay 1.5 per cent of their annual incomes as annual levy,” he said.

Mr Onumonu, who said the companies had already submitted a certified true copy of their audited account for the previous year(s) to NBC, said the commission was paid over N12 billion (N12, 490, 000, 0000) as annual levy from 2014 to date.

The officer described NBC’s action as an abuse of power, urging the court to grant their plea in the interest of justice.

Adedapo Adesanya is a journalist, polymath, and connoisseur of everything art. When he is not writing, he has his nose buried in one of the many books or articles he has bookmarked or simply listening to good music with a bottle of beer or wine. He supports the greatest club in the world, Manchester United F.C.

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5 BBNaija Seasons That Left Us With Unforgotten Moments

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5 BBNaija Seasons

One thing BBNaija has never struggled to deliver is premium entertainment. Every season has introduced new personalities, sparked conversations, created fan favourites and given Nigerians moments that live far beyond the finale. From iconic fights and unforgettable ships to underdog victories and shocking twists, every edition has added something to the show’s legacy.

With Season 11 around the corner, we are taking a trip down memory lane to revisit five seasons that gave us some of the franchise’s most unforgettable moments, and why we are excited to see what the next housemates will bring.

Double Wahala (Season 3)

For many fans, this was the season that defined modern BBNaija.

Cee-C and Tobi’s complicated relationship had viewers emotionally invested from start to finish, while Bambam and Teddy A gave us a love story that would continue outside the house. Alex wore her heart on her sleeve, Nina and Miracle became one of the season’s biggest ships, and Anto and Khloe’s return after eviction remains one of the twists fans still talk about.

In the middle of all the drama, Miracle quietly played one of the smartest games in BBNaija history. While louder personalities dominated conversations, he focused on the competition, won crucial tasks and walked away with the grand prize, proving that strategy could be just as powerful as popularity.

Pepper Dem (Season 4)

If any season understood the meaning of premium entertainment, it was Pepper Dem.

Mercy, Mike, Frodd, Omashola, Seyi and Diane all brought something different to the house, but it was the rivalry between Mercy and Tacha that became the defining story of the season. Their clash, which ended with Tacha’s disqualification, remains one of the most talked-about moments in BBNaija history.

Mercy went on to become the first female winner of the show, while Tacha built one of the biggest fan communities the franchise has ever seen. Years later, both names are still impossible to leave out of any BBNaija conversation.

Lockdown (Season 5)

When Nigerians needed an escape in 2020, Lockdown delivered.

Laycon’s journey from underestimated housemate to overwhelming winner is still one of the greatest underdog stories the show has produced. Erica’s disqualification changed the course of the game overnight, while her relationship with Kiddwaya kept viewers glued to their screens.

Then there was Ozo’s relentless pursuit of Nengi, a storyline that sparked endless debates, and Dorathy, whose honesty and resilience earned her fans across the country. It was a season full of memorable personalities, and many of them remain household names today.

All Stars (Season 8)

Bringing back former housemates was always going to be risky, but All Stars proved the gamble was worth it.

Old friendships were tested, rivalries resurfaced and experienced players quickly realised that reputation alone couldn’t win the game. Mercy, Cee-C, Alex, Pere, Cross, Angel and Neo all returned with something to prove, but it was Ilebaye who ended up writing the biggest story.

Often underestimated in the early weeks, she quietly navigated the game, survived nominations and completed one of the biggest comeback stories in BBNaija history with her win.

10/10 (Season 10)

A decade in, BBNaija showed it could still surprise us.

Season 10 introduced a fresh cast that wasted no time creating memorable moments. Imisi’s eventual win capped off an impressive run that included some of the season’s biggest talking points, especially her rivalry with Faith. Isabella and Thelma also had viewers talking after their heated exchanges, reminding everyone that no BBNaija season is complete without a little gbas gbos.

The romance wasn’t in short supply either. Mide and Bright Morgan quickly became one of the season’s favourite couples, while Denari and Doris kept fans invested in their relationship. Dede added a lighter twist to the season with her famous “three fishes” Kola, Jason Jae and Koyin, all competing for her attention, even as she and Koyin insisted they were nothing more than friends.

The season took another dramatic turn when Faith was disqualified after his clash with Sultana, a moment that completely changed the dynamics in the house and show. By the finale, Imisi had earned her place as winner, closing out a milestone season with plenty of memorable moments.

And that’s the thing about BBNaija. Every season leaves us with stories we’ll reference for years, while introducing new personalities who become part of the culture.

Season 11 now has its own opportunity to do the same. New housemates, new twists, new alliances, new rivalries and moments nobody can predict. If history has taught us anything, it’s that by the time the finale rolls around, we’ll already be talking about the moments that defined another unforgettable season.

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5 Africa Magic Shows You Should Be Watching Right Now

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Africa Magic Shows

Imagine trying to choose your future partner without meeting them first. Instead, you’re introduced to the people who know them best: their family, their home, their upbringing, their traditions. And from those visits alone, you’re expected to decide who deserves your heart.

It’s a bold idea, but that’s exactly what makes Date My Family Nigeria so addictive to watch. And it’s only one of the many reasons Africa Magic continues to deliver stories that spark conversations, stir emotions and keep viewers coming back for more. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, family drama, mystery or light-hearted entertainment, there’s always something worth watching.

Here are five Africa Magic shows you should be watching right now:

1. Date My Family Nigeria

Thursday | 1:00 PM | Africa Magic Family Ch 7

Finding love has never been this adventurous. Instead of going on dates with potential partners, one bachelor or bachelorette visits the families of three singles before meeting them. From first impressions and family dynamics to unexpected advice and hilarious moments, every visit reveals more than any traditional date ever could.

The big question is simple: Can you choose your future partner based on the people who raised them?

2. Jay Jay: The Chosen One

Friday | 4:30 PM | Africa Magic Family Ch 7

What if your greatest talent came from the most unexpected place?

In Jay Jay: The Chosen One, Austin dreams of becoming an exceptional footballer, but his journey takes an extraordinary turn when he begins training near the jungle. There, the animals teach him remarkable football skills and grant him special powers in exchange for one promise: to protect them whenever they’re in danger. Blending football, fantasy and adventure, it’s an inspiring story about courage, responsibility and chasing your dreams.

3. The River

Wednesday | 12:30 AM | Africa Magic Family Ch 7

The River follows two very different worlds that are bound together by family, ambition and long-buried secrets. On one side are powerful business families; on the other, a struggling township where lives are shaped by inequality and hardship.

As greed, betrayal and hidden truths begin to surface, every relationship is pushed to its breaking point. If you enjoy layered storytelling where every decision has consequences, The River is well worth your time.

4. Etiti

Friday | 8:30 PM | Africa Magic Showcase Ch 8

A wedding is supposed to mark the beginning of a new chapter. In Etiti, it becomes the beginning of a nightmare. On Jidenna and Chisom’s wedding day, a hidden betrayal and a chilling prophecy from an ageless priestess turn what should have been their happiest moment into their last. What follows is a gripping tale of mystery, tradition and the supernatural, where every revelation raises even more questions.

5. Husband Material

Saturday | 6:45 PM | Africa Magic Showcase Ch 8

Finding “the one” isn’t always as straightforward as it seems.

Husband Material follows young women as they meet and evaluate potential life partners, navigating personalities, expectations and unexpected chemistry along the way. It’s a refreshing take on modern relationships that proves choosing a husband can be just as entertaining as finding one. With heartfelt conversations, surprising moments and plenty of laughs, it’s the perfect weekend watch for anyone who enjoys relationship-focused reality shows.

Whether you’re rooting for someone to find love in Date My Family Nigeria, following Austin’s extraordinary journey in Jay Jay: The Chosen One, getting drawn into the power struggles of The River, uncovering the mysteries of Etiti, or watching sparks fly in Husband Material, there’s never a dull moment on Africa Magic.

Different stories, different characters, different reasons to keep watching. But they all have one thing in common, they know how to keep you coming back for the next episode.

Catch all these shows on Africa Magic, available on GOtv, and discover your next favourite.

To upgrade, subscribe or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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Zee World, Telemundo & Televista: The Telenovela Triangle on GOtv

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Every telenovela fan has a favourite; some live for the emotional rollercoaster of Zee World, where every episode feels like another test of love, loyalty and family. Others can’t resist Telemundo, where revenge is almost a love language and no secret stays buried for long. Then there are viewers who keep returning to Televista, drawn by stories that blend romance, culture and everyday realities in ways that feel surprisingly familiar.

The good thing is, on GOtv, you don’t have to pick anyone.

With Zee World, Telemundo and Televista all on one platform, there’s always another story waiting to pull you in. Whether you’re in the mood for impossible love stories, unexpected betrayals or family drama that hits close to home, the next binge-worthy episode is only a channel away.

Zee World: Where every emotion comes with a plot twist

Zee World has mastered the art of making viewers emotionally invested. One minute you’re celebrating a wedding, the next you’re questioning everyone’s motives. It’s a world where family bonds are constantly tested, love survives impossible odds, and every decision carries consequences that echo for generations.

Series like This is Fate, Twist of Fate, Radha Mohan and Sister Wives (airing everyday on Zee World)  have become household favourites because they know exactly how to keep audiences guessing. Just when it seems peace has finally arrived, another secret, misunderstanding or family conflict changes everything. It’s the kind of storytelling that makes viewers say, “Just one more episode,” until it’s well past bedtime.

Telemundo: Where calm never lasts for long

If suspense had a home, it would probably be Telemundo. Its stories move fast, emotions run high, and almost every episode ends with a revelation that sends the plot in an entirely new direction. Weddings are interrupted, alliances collapse overnight, enemies become lovers, and trusted friends suddenly become the biggest threat.

Shows like On the other side of the wall, Behind closed doors, All roads lead to love and Queen of hearts have built loyal audiences because they refuse to follow predictable storylines. Every episode leaves viewers with another mystery to solve and another cliffhanger they simply can’t ignore. It’s television that keeps your remote close, but your attention even closer.

Televista: Romance with a familiar heartbeat

Televista tells stories that feel a little closer to home. The romance is still there, but so are the everyday struggles, family expectations, friendships, ambition, heartbreak and the difficult choices that shape people’s lives. Its characters often feel less like larger-than-life heroes and more like people you could easily know.

Whether it’s navigating complicated relationships or overcoming life’s unexpected turns, Televista reminds viewers that the most memorable stories don’t always need extravagant twists. Sometimes they’re found in ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. That’s what makes its dramas so easy to connect with.

Three channels with different storytelling but one destination

The beauty of GOtv’s telenovela lineup is that every mood has a channel to match. Some evenings call for the emotional intensity of Zee World. Other nights demand the suspense and unpredictability of Telemundo. And when you’re looking for stories rooted in love, family and culture, Televista is ready with another unforgettable episode. Different countries, different cultures, different storytelling traditions. Yet they all share one thing in common: they know exactly how to keep viewers coming back for more.

So whether you’ve already chosen a favourite or happily switch between all three, one thing is certain: on GOtv, the next unforgettable plot twist is always just one episode away.

To upgrade, subscribe or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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