Showbiz
I’m Going to Spoil Your Career—Ubi Tells Iyanya
By Dipo Olowookere
One of the owners of popular entertainment outfit, Made Men Music Group, Mr Ubi Franklin, has disclosed that he once warned his partner, Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, of telling lies against him or have his career destroyed.
In an interview with The Native Magazine, Ubi said he planning a legal action against the singer concerning unpalatable things he said about him.
“Already, everything he said is a lie. A lot of the things he said are lies. So, there is a legal document that is going to be sent to him soon for him to retract everything he has said because he is lying.
“Whatever I tell you I have proof. You see the story I told you about these women? I have proof of it and I warned him. I said ‘Listen, I’m going to spoil your career, let it go’. Do you understand? I’m going to let it go. Now he is the one going to tell you that I beat up Emma Nyra,” Ubi said in the latest interview.
Recently, Iyanya went on radio to accuse Ubi of cheating him while both of them run Triple MG, but Ubi responded, saying there was no iota of truth in the allegation.
In the latest interview, Ubi claimed Iyanya was sleeping with married women in the country, saying he has evidence to back this up.
However, when asked about how his relationship with Emma Nyra, a female formerly under his label, went, the artiste manager declined comments, saying he has a non-disclosure agreement on the issue.
What Happened With Emma Nyra?
We didn’t agree. You see, Emma Nyra’s situation, I cannot say much about it because I am bound by a contract not to say anything about our situation. I am not going to say anything about it. Because if I say anything about it, I have a legal suit that I’m going to pay 10 million naira. So, I’m not going to say anything about Emma Nyra. If she does, I’d have to collect 10 million because me and Emma Nyra don’t really have any problem. Even when she had the twins, we spoke. I even sent her a message. So, we don’t have problems. These problems are problems Iyanya is trying to create to hype himself up.
Tell Me What You Know About What Transpired Between Iyanya And Temple Music?
Yeah, it was a one-on-one conversation we had at his house. He showed me a heated WhatsApp chat with the owner of Temple, them. That’s why I was able to believe he was having problems with Temple. When he wanted to leave Temple, I told him, ‘Don’t leave Temple the way you left Made Men’. Which is, relieve yourself, settle everything and go. I said, ‘The fact that you want to leave Temple doesn’t mean that you should fight them. It would now become constant. It can’t be like it’s the same thing you do everywhere you go. People would come and be putting some rubbish things around it.
People you collected money from to pay your house rent when your landlady chased you out. They gave you a car. You were stuck in America they paid for you. Have you spoken to Temple? Ask Iyanya if he told me that he had issues with Temple and he needed to clear up his contract with N60 million. Ask him if he told me that.
N60 Million, To Exit His Contract?
Yes. And I told him I was going to raise the money. Before I raised that money I spoke him. It took me 24 hours or less to raise that money. When I raised that money I started calling him, he was not picking up his phone so I just left it. So for me, you see all these things Iyanya is saying ehn, when I look at it I just laugh. Because I have everything to prove. I have everything to show. If this is what Iyanya is going to do after all my hard work. Now, you know what? People would comment and say ‘This Ubi guy, Ubi is like this, Ubi is like that’. You know why they’d say that?
Why?
All artist managers are hated. You know why? We do the dirty job. So I don’t expect anybody to like me. When we leave these artists and go that’s when you start seeing who these artists are directly and you start to see who they are. Please, what did he say about Emma Nyra?
That You Had Problems In Your Relationship And You Physically Assaulted Her Repeatedly..
Have you asked Iyanya what happened between him and Yvonne Nelson?
Was Iyanya Physically Abusing Yvonne Nelson?
(Laughs) It’s, not my mouth you’d hear that thing from. I promised not to say anything or put Iyanya out.
He Said He Saw You Beating Emma Nyra?
Me?
Did He Advise Her To Leave You?
Bro see, Iyanya is a big liar. He has been saying it for many years that he is going to use Emma Nyra against me. You understand? I did every work for Emma to make sure. I’m not going to speak about Emma Nyra unless she talks. We have a contract binding us not to say anything. Why didn’t he say on his interview that I beat up Emma Nyra?
He Did Say That…
Bro, I’d advise you not to. Because I would put out all the married women he slept with. Their pictures side by side for me. Bro I don’t want to talk. Because if you allow me to do that to him, I’d drag him through the whole of this country. I’m not scared of poo. What I want about this matter is for people to see clarity. If Emma Nyra has issues she would come and say it herself. Emma Nyra is a mother now. I think her focus is different. And she even wouldn’t want to be involved in all this. I wish Iyanya was a father. If he was a father, most of these things he is saying he would not do it. When I kept watching his interviews I kept laughing. Bro, don’t let me do this to this to this guy. If you’re writing your story, take out the Emma Nyra situation because if you’re writing about something like that, Emma Nyra needs to speak for herself and with the way I and Emma Nyra are tight, we cannot speak about each other. We had our whole issues and the issues were settled and I have a legal document to back it. So for me, leave her out of this and focus on something else. Write your post. See, I never really wanted to get to this point bro. For everything that happens, there are two sides to the story.
Do You Think You Treated Everyone Fairly?
I treated everybody fair. I’m not perfect bro. See, there’s nobody even you talking to me right now that would say they don’t have issues with people. Check the whole entertainment industry. Am I the first person that an artist is leaving my record label or an artist is having issues with me? I’m not the first now. When did artists start leaving record labels? Exactly, let’s be very diplomatic about this thing. Did they say that I had their money, I ate it and I didn’t give them?
It Was Just About You Not Treating Them Right That They Had Expectations And Those Expectations Were Not Met.
Okay, what expectations?
A More Hands-On Promotion And Marketing Perhaps?
Can I ask you a question? Iyanya says he was a partner and he was investing so why are they not blaming that on Iyanya? Exactly. Why is it that it is Ubi they are blaming it on? Why is it that they are all coming together to fight? Do you understand where this thing is going? You said you are a partner abi? You were investing. So why are they not fighting you? Is it that you gave me money to push your music and I didn’t do it? So you see the twist? Now, If they say that the label is not treating them right who is the label? Ubi, Iyanya. Why are they not fighting Iyanya?
Maybe He Has Done Nothing To Warrant That?
All these people talking, how much did they make me? Chibbz, how much did we make from him? The only person that can talk and I would respond to the person is only Iyanya and Baci. I know Selebobo would not say anything to you because for a fact he doesn’t have anything to say to you.
What Role Did You Play In The Tensions Between Iyanya And Tekno?
He (Iyanya) says Tekno is rude and ill-mannered. The issue between me and Iyanya that made me and Iyanya break up finally was that I hired a driver for Iyanya. Iyanya and the driver fought and he fired the driver. And Tekno hired the driver. Tekno was living on his own. So one day I now went to meet Iyanya that just in case you come to Nigeria before me, what I just heard is that Ken your former driver now works for Tekno. Tekno, on the other hand, said he saw this guy on the road, he had a baby at home and he decided to hire him. And he asked him what happened between you and Iyanya, and the guy explained his side. So he was like let me just hire the guy because the person you know is better than the person you don’t know. And the guy worked with Tekno for a very long time.
So Iyanya started accusing me, of using Tekno to disrespect him. That how would I know that Tekno is about to hire his own driver that he sacked and I allowed that happen? That’s how he turned and said he wants to leave the record label. Every time issues happen he says that I am the one not making them, Tekno, to respect him. I’m like bro, Tekno is a man of his own. Everybody, they are men. And I don’t think any of these guys disrespect you, they respect you. From Selebobo they respect you. They call him “Baba.” They don’t call him by name. Do you understand? They call him Baba. They don’t call him by name. Ask him what happened between him and Tekno and what happened between him and the driver Tekno hired? Do you understand?
Already, everything he said is a lie. A lot of the things he said are lies. So, there is a legal document that is going to be sent to him soon for him to retract everything he has said because he is lying. Whatever I tell you I have proof. You see the story I told you about these women? I have proof of it and I warned him. I said ‘Listen, I’m going to spoil your career, let it go’. Do you understand? I’m going to let it go. Now he is the one going to tell you that I beat up Emma Nyra.
Showbiz
Heartbeat, The Split and Other Shows To Watch This Weekend on DStv
If you’re wondering what to stream this week on DStv as the new year settles in and the first full workweek wraps up, we’ve got you. From a brand-new reality dating show that’s about to break the internet to crime drama that will have you at the edge of your seat, here’s your ultimate guide to what to watch.
- Heartbeat – Africa Magic Showcase (DStv 151)
Starting with the star of the week, Heartbeat. It’s Africa Magic’s new dating reality show premiering on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
The show brings together 10 singles, five men and five women, all looking for love in a specially designed love pad. Over 12 weeks, the cameras will capture every flirt, fight, and awkward silence, plus the games and challenges that push them to get to know each other intimately.
And yes, some of these contestants are here for the love and drama. We’ve got Chidera ‘The Slumflower’ Eggrue, Alvin Leonard, Queen Latifah, Igwe Cruise, and more. If you love romance and reality TV chaos, this is your Sunday night fix.
- Paris & Nicole: The Encore – M-Net (DStv 101)
Airing on Sat, January 10 at 10pm, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie are set to take over your screen. This time, the BFFs are writing, producing, and starring in a one-word opera inspired by their childhood song “Sanasa.”
Episode 3, titled ‘The Sanasapera!’, is pure chaos. They work at Sonic, hijack a Hollywood celebrity tour to find an audience, and then get on stage to perform. If you love ridiculous, unfiltered celebrity energy that makes you question what “high art” even is, this one’s for you.
- There’s a Zulu On My Stoep – M-Net Movies 4 (DStv 108)
Perfect for the weekend is this South African classic airing on Saturday, January 10, at 6:25pm. The film follows two boys who meet in South Africa and form a lifelong friendship, then reunite as adults for a wild adventure.
Directed by Gray Hofmeyr and starring Leon Schuster, John Matshikiza, and Wilson Dunster, it’s a mix of heartfelt bonding and fun. Basically, it’s the perfect palate cleanse before veering into reality TV drama.
- Dating: No Filter South Africa – Bravo (DStv 124)
If you can’t get enough of dating drama, this South African reality series is a must-watch. On the show, singles go on blind dates, and their every move is accompanied by hilarious commentary from SA’s funniest celebrities.
Episodes 5 & 6 of Season 2 promise awkward encounters, accidental sparks, and laugh-out-loud commentary. Perfect if you’re into late-night TV chaos and love seeing people make all the wrong moves in the name of love. It’s airing on Sunday, January 11, at 11:45pm.
- The Split – Africa Magic Showcase (DStv 151)
Taking you into the world of Nollywood, The Split is a high-stakes financial crime drama that will have you holding your breath. The 26-episode series follows three bankers who pocket money that isn’t theirs. When the deceased account owner’s son resurfaces with proof, their pact unravels, sending the trio spiralling into guilt, fear, and betrayal.
With stars like Anee Icha, Baaj Adebule, Esosa Benard, and David Jones David, this one is your Thursday and Friday night adrenaline fix. It airs at 8:30pm.
- Daughters of Water – Africa Magic Showcase (DStv 151)
Still on must-watch Nollywood shows, Daughters of Water is one to look out for. The drama follows the journey of destiny and spiritual heritage through Anie, a disgraced investigative journalist who returns to her hometown, Ikot Ndem, seeking a comeback. Her arrival coincides with the sacred Ukang Festival, where seven “Daughters of Water” from special families take part in a river-dipping ceremony to honour river spirits.
Starring Imoh Eboh as Anie, alongside Ade Laoye, Teniola Aladese, and Bobby Ogbolu, new episodes are released every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Africa Magic Showcase (DStv Channel 151), and you can catch up on previous episodes on Showmax.
All these shows and more are available on DStv, with subscribers still enjoying the opportunity to receive an instant upgrade when they stay connected on their current package or renew on any eligible package, unlocking more movies, sports, kids’ content and local shows from January to February 2026.
Showbiz
Excitement as 9th AFRIMA Kicks Off in Lagos
By Adedapo Adesanya
Lagos State is officially welcoming Africa and the global music community for the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), which kicked off in the Nigerian commercial capital.
The Africa’s global music celebration commenced on Wednesday, January 7 and will wrap up on Sunday, January 11, 2026. Yesterday was the Welcome Soiree for nominees and guests, hosted by the British High Commission in Nigeria.
Other highlights of the five-day event include the Africa Music Business Summit on Thursday, January 8; the AFRIMA Music Village, featuring performances by over 25 A-list artistes and DJs from across the continent on Friday, January 9 at Ikeja City Mall; and the Main Awards Ceremony on Sunday, January 11 at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. The awards will be broadcast live to audiences in more than 84 countries worldwide.
Speaking on Wednesday at a press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, to herald the commencement of the global event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who spoke on behalf of the state government as the official host city, described AFRIMA as “a truly remarkable celebration of creativity, excellence and the unifying power of music across Africa and the world.”
“This gathering is a powerful convergence of cultures, ideas and possibilities. It is a moment where Africa speaks to the world through rhythm, melody and storytelling, and Lagos is deeply honoured to host this gathering of exceptional talents, industry leaders, policymakers and creative visionaries,” she said.
She noted that music and culture have become powerful tools for economic growth and global connection, adding that Lagos is proud to host an event that continues to shape narratives and connect continents.
On his part, AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mr Mike Dada, explained that AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission, is “the longest and biggest-running African music platform that promotes and showcases African talent to the rest of the world.”
He said the last edition was held in Dakar, Senegal, and after extensive deliberations, the African Union awarded the hosting rights of the 9th edition to Lagos.
“The goal of AFRIMA goes beyond entertainment. The idea is to showcase African music talent, demonstrate the capacity of the continent and tell the world that Africa is full of excellence. We also use this platform to promote peace and integration, and to show that music can take young people away from the streets,” he noted.
Mr Dada added that AFRIMA also promotes African cities and tourism.
“Many of us know London and Paris more than we know African cities. Through AFRIMA, we promote African destinations to the world, which is why the event is broadcast to over 30 countries,” he said.
He further disclosed that AFRIMA has provided about 6,000 tickets to the Lagos State Government through the Ministry for distribution across all local governments and LCDAs, to enable young people who may not otherwise afford it to attend the AFRIMA Music Village free of charge.
Also speaking, AFRIMA Associate Producer, Mr Olisa Adibua, said awards platforms are critical to the growth of the music industry.
“In other parts of the world, industries thrive because they have infrastructure and systems that reward excellence. For music to grow in Africa, awards like AFRIMA are necessary. We are the backbone and part of the future of the industry,” he stated.
Showbiz
Again, Warner Bros Rejects Paramount’s Aggressive Takeover Deal
By Adedapo Adesanya
The board of Warner Bros. Discover (WBD) on Wednesday once again rejected a hostile takeover offer from Paramount Skydance, affirming its sale to Netflix.
The board said it continued to believe the Paramount bid is inferior to a previously announced deal with Netflix to buy WBD’s studio and streaming business for $72 billion.
“We have a signed merger agreement with Netflix, it’s a compelling value, a clear path to closing and protections for our shareholders if something stops the close, whatever that might be,” said Mr Samuel Di Piazza, who chairs the WBD board said, as per CNBC on Wednesday.
Business Post reported last year that WBD entered into an agreement to sell its streaming and studio business to Netflix. However, Paramount has been vying to acquire the entirety of WBD, including its pay TV networks.
In the days following the announcement of that deal, Paramount launched its hostile bid, taking directly to shareholders an offer of $30 per share, all cash for the entirety of Warner Bros. Discovery, including its TV networks.
WBD’s board made an initial recommendation to reject the offer, and Paramount subsequently made another push for the coveted assets. In late December Paramount guaranteed the backing of billionaire Larry Ellison, the father of Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison, as a clear response to questions raised by WBD’s board.
Paramount first showed interest in acquiring all of Warner Bros. Discovery’s assets in September.
The company made three takeover offers before Warner Bros. Discovery kicked off a formal sale process, inviting other bidders into the fold. It would eventually settle for Netflix.
Netflix issued its own statement welcoming the WBD board’s recommendation and noting it has been engaging with the US Department of Justice and European Commission on antitrust concerns surrounding the merger.
“The WBD Board remains fully supportive of and continues to recommend Netflix’s merger agreement, recognizing it as the superior proposal that will deliver the greatest value to its stockholders, as well as consumers, creators and the broader entertainment industry,” Netflix co-CEOs Mr Ted Sarandos and Mr Greg Peters said in the statement.
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