Nollywood has been thrown into grief following the sudden death of actor and content creator Odira Nwobu, who passed away in South Africa just months after surviving a fatal car crash that claimed several lives along the Lagos–Ibadan expressway.
His death was confirmed by his manager, Arthur Scott, who revealed that the actor had travelled to South Africa for a brand engagement tied to one of his ambassadorial roles. While Nwobu had been managing high blood pressure, the exact cause of his death remains unknown.
What made the news even more devastating is the timing of the tragedy. Less than 24 hours before his passing, the vibrant entertainer had been actively posting photos and videos from his trip, appearing energetic and in good health.
His sudden death has therefore triggered widespread disbelief among fans and colleagues, especially coming so soon after he survived the horrific June accident that left his vehicle completely crushed and resulted in multiple casualties.
Early Life and Background
Odira Nwobu was born on May 24, 1982, in Enugu, Nigeria, where he spent his early years. Growing up, he displayed a strong interest in performance, humour, and improvisation—traits that would later define his entertainment career.
His entry into the creative industry began shortly after secondary school. With a natural flair for comedy, he started creating and sharing short skits online. These videos quickly resonated with viewers, earning him a loyal digital following and opening doors to professional acting roles.
One of his most recognizable recurring characters—often referred to in profiles as “Joseph the Dreamer”—highlighted his mastery of physical comedy and expressive storytelling. These viral skits propelled him further into the spotlight and helped shape the unique comedic identity he became known for.
Career
As his online presence grew, so did his opportunities in Nollywood. Producers noticed his versatility and comic timing, leading to his transition from digital content creator to on-screen actor.
Odira featured in a number of films, including Joseph the Dreamer, Home Alone, Class Mugu, Village Rats, Goat Lover, Wayward Father, Ikpo, Village Priest, Family Saga.
His performance in Joseph the Dreamer earned him a nomination for Best Comic Actor at the African Movie Academy Awards, further cementing his reputation as a standout comedic talent.
Beyond the screen, Nwobu built a family life he cherished. He married his wife, Gifty, in 2021, and the couple welcomed their daughter in 2023.
The United States has indicated a broader strategy to support Nigeria in tackling attacks on Christians, following President Donald Trump’s directive to prepare for possible military action and his warning that America could intervene “guns-a-blazing” against extremist groups.
A senior official from the State Department said the approach goes far beyond military options. It includes diplomatic measures—such as the possibility of sanctions—alongside assistance programs and intelligence cooperation with the Nigerian government.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently met with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser to discuss steps to curb the violence. He shared photos from the meeting, a stark shift from Trump’s earlier threat to suspend all aid to Nigeria if authorities “continue to allow the killing of Christians.”
These renewed efforts align with Trump’s promise to limit foreign military entanglements at a time when the US security presence in Africa has decreased. Any direct military involvement in Nigeria would likely require redeploying forces from other regions.
Despite this, the president has intensified his criticism as Nigeria faces repeated attacks on schools and churches, with both Christians and Muslims targeted.
“I’m really angry about it,” Trump said during a radio interview on Friday. He accused Nigerian authorities of “doing nothing” and described the situation as “a disgrace.” The Nigerian government has dismissed his claims.
A Comprehensive Strategy Emerges
After meeting with Nigeria’s security chief, Hegseth stated that the US is “working aggressively with Nigeria to end the persecution of Christians by jihadist terrorists.”
According to a Pentagon statement, Hegseth stressed the need for Nigeria to take swift and sustained action to protect vulnerable communities, while reaffirming America’s willingness to support Nigeria in degrading terrorist groups that pose threats to the US.
Jonathan Pratt, head of the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, told lawmakers that potential military engagement is only one part of the broader plan. The issue is also under review by the National Security Council.
Pratt outlined a holistic strategy—covering security, policing, and economic support—as part of the US response to Trump’s designation of Nigeria as “a country of particular concern,” a move that could lead to sanctions.
Complex Roots of Nigeria’s Violence
Nigeria’s insecurity is driven by overlapping crises: extremist groups like Boko Haram target both Christians and Muslims; clashes between mostly Muslim herders and predominantly Christian farmers continue over land and water; and heavily armed bandits carry out kidnappings for ransom.
Recent attacks included mass abductions from a Catholic school on Friday and another school in a Muslim-majority area earlier in the week. Gunmen also killed two people at a church and kidnapped several worshippers.
The rise in violence has drawn increasing global attention, with public figures joining calls for action.
If Washington chooses to intervene militarily, the reduced US presence in the region—following withdrawals from Niger and other strategic points—means resources would have to be mobilized from places like Djibouti or smaller, mission-specific security hubs in West Africa.
Even with increased US involvement, analysts warn that military action alone cannot resolve a crisis that has built up over decades.
Judd Devermont, a senior Africa security expert, noted that limited airstrikes would likely fail to weaken extremist groups effectively. “Nigeria’s insecurity has evolved over decades,” he said. “It will not be reversed overnight by an influx of US resources.”
He added that lasting solutions require economic investments, interfaith programs, and stronger policing—efforts that also depend on Nigerian cooperation.
Risks Surrounding Any US Intervention
Nigeria has rejected the idea of unilateral military action but remains open to assistance against armed groups.
Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province have entrenched themselves around the Lake Chad Basin, often moving across borders into neighboring Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.
Security experts warn that inserting US troops without a deep understanding of the conflict dynamics would be dangerous. “If US forces enter without fully grasping the context, it exposes them to serious risks,” said Malik Samuel, a researcher at Good Governance Africa.
Nigeria’s own air operations have repeatedly resulted in accidental strikes on civilians.
To avoid worsening the situation, both governments would need a precise understanding of the overlapping causes of farmer-herder violence, banditry, and militancy—missteps could destabilize neighboring countries as well.
Nigerian fintech Paystack has terminated the employment of its co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, Ezra Olubi, following public allegations of sexual misconduct involving a junior employee.
Olubi revealed the termination in a blog post on Saturday, November 23, 2025, noting that the decision was made before the company’s investigation was completed.
The controversy began in mid-November when a viral social media post accused Olubi of abusive behaviour. This prompted the circulation of old, explicit tweets dating from 2009 to 2013, some referencing sexualised content involving minors, bestiality, and sexually suggestive remarks toward colleagues. Following the resurfacing of the posts, Olubi deactivated his X account on November 13.
Paystack confirmed that it had suspended Olubi on November 14 and launched a formal investigation, appointing an independent law firm, Aluko & Oyebode, to oversee the review. However, in his blog post, Olubi argued that he was not given a chance to respond before his contract was ended.
“The decision appears to contravene the terms of the suspension and Paystack’s internal policies,” he said, adding that his legal team would explore appropriate steps in response.
In a statement reported by TechCabal, Paystack said Olubi’s termination was due to “significant negative reputational damage” linked to the resurfaced posts, and was taken independently of the ongoing workplace misconduct investigation.
The company emphasized that the action was within contractual rights and followed due process, adding that all financial entitlements had been settled.
“As a regulated company operating across multiple markets, we have a responsibility to act quickly when conduct could undermine trust,” the statement read. “This action is separate from the independent investigation into workplace misconduct, which is still ongoing.”
The incident has reignited discussions on workplace accountability in Africa’s fast-growing tech sector, where several companies have faced scrutiny over governance, culture, and misconduct allegations.
Paystack, which was acquired by Stripe in 2020, has not issued a fresh public statement following Olubi’s blog post.
It remains unclear whether Stripe will comment or if potential legal action by Olubi will lead to further disclosures.
The Night of Bliss 2025 with Pastor Chris Oyakhilome brought together millions across 11 Nigerian states where believers experienced heartfelt worship, inspiring sermons, and life-changing moments. Beyond its spiritual impact, the event highlighted unity among Christians across Nigeria and reaffirmed the church’s commitment to spreading the gospel with renewed strength and purpose.
During the programme, Pastor Chris emphasized that the Night of Bliss was specifically designed for Nigeria. He spoke on patriotism, love for the nation, and the importance of praying for leaders.
He encouraged Nigerians at home and abroad to represent the country with honour and hope, leading attendees in singing the national anthem and reminding them of the biblical call to intercede for those in authority. As the nation continues to face challenges, the message of peace, unity, and faith shared at the event reinforces the collective desire to build a Nigeria “where no man is oppressed, and so with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed.”
The long and turbulent legal journey of separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu has reached another defining moment, as a Federal High Court in Abuja convicted him on seven terrorism and treason-related charges and issued four concurrent life sentences.
The ruling has intensified national debate, especially as critics including legal experts and rights groups challenge the fairness of the proceedings, citing concerns such as alleged denial of fair hearing, reliance on a repealed law, and unresolved constitutional objections.
These controversies have raised deeper questions about consistency and credibility within Nigeria’s justice system. The contrast between Kanu’s multiple life sentences and the comparatively lighter punishment given to an ISWAP mastermind has further fueled public concern about proportionality and fairness.
Jamaica and the global music community are mourning the death of Jimmy Cliff, the legendary singer, songwriter, actor, and one of the founding architects of reggae music. Cliff, born James Chambers, died on November 24, 2025, at the age of 81, after complications from pneumonia following a seizure, according to a statement released by his wife.
Tributes poured in from across the world, with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness describing him as an artist whose music “lifted people through hard times” and inspired countless generations.
Fans across platforms echoed the sentiment, calling him a “reggae legend” and a symbol of an era defined by “good vibes and tolerance.”
Early Life
Jimmy Cliff was born on July 30, 1944, in Somerton, Saint James Parish, Jamaica, during the height of a destructive hurricane.
His dramatic entry into the world became part of local folklore, with neighbors claiming there was “something special” about the child who survived the chaos, wrapped in a sheet in a neighbor’s home.
The second youngest of nine children, Cliff grew up in rural Jamaica, surrounded by hardship but fueled by imagination.
In primary school he entertained classmates with magic tricks and palm readings, all while developing a deep fascination with music from a nearby sound system. By the time he was writing his first songs as a young boy, music had already become his escape and identity.
At 14, after his family moved to Kingston, he adopted the name Jimmy Cliff and immersed himself in the island’s thriving ska and rocksteady culture.
Personal Life and Family
Beyond the stage, Cliff often described himself as a family-first person. He was married to Latifa Chambers, a Moroccan-French-Jamaican woman who was his partner through his later career. Together, they had two children: daughter Lilty and son Aken.
He also had a daughter, actress and singer Nabiyah Be, from a previous relationship with Brazilian psychologist Sônia Gomes.
Cliff frequently said his family grounded him and inspired many of his songs, including the reflective “Moving On.” Even as his fame soared, he insisted that his greatest role was being a father.
Career Path
Cliff’s career took off in 1962 when he convinced producer Leslie Kong to record him, an encounter that led to early hits and a long creative partnership.
At just 17, he scored his breakthrough with “Hurricane Hattie,” a song that topped Jamaican charts and symbolically echoed his storm-born beginnings. He recorded several local classics during this period, including “Miss Jamaica” and “Dearest Beverley,” and represented Jamaica at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.
After signing with Island Records in 1967, Cliff moved to London and expanded his sound. His debut album, Hard Road to Travel showcased a blend of ska, soul, and reggae, while global hits like “Wonderful World, Beautiful People” and the anti-war anthem “Vietnam”.
Praised by Bob Dylan as the greatest protest song he had heard, solidified his international presence.
“Many Rivers to Cross,” a soulful reflection on struggle and ambition, later became one of the most widely covered reggae songs in history.
Cliff’s international stardom skyrocketed in 1972 with the film The Harder They Come, where he played Ivanhoe “Rhyging” Martin, a young musician drawn into crime.
The film and its soundtrack featuring the timeless title track—was pivotal in taking reggae to mainstream global audiences and influencing emerging punk and rock movements.
In the decades that followed, Cliff collaborated across genres, working with Kool & the Gang, The Rolling Stones, and Bruce Springsteen. His voice reached a new generation through the chart-topping “I Can See Clearly Now” for the 1993 film Cool Runnings, and he contributed to Disney’s The Lion King with the song “Hakuna Matata.” His body of film work included roles in Club Paradise (1986) and Marked for Death (1990).
Even in his later years, Cliff continued to innovate. The Grammy-winning album Rebirth (2012) reintroduced him to global critics and fans, and his 2022 album Refugees confronted issues of displacement and global inequality.
Works and Awards
Jimmy Cliff’s works and awards reflect a career that helped carry reggae to the world. His timeless songs include “The Harder They Come,” “Many Rivers to Cross,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” “Vietnam,” “I Can See Clearly Now” (1993), “Reggae Night,” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People.”
Across more than 20 albums—among them Hard Road to Travel (1967), The Harder They Come soundtrack (1972), the Grammy-winning Cliff Hanger (1985), Rebirth (2012), and Refugees (2022)—he blended reggae with global influences and shaped the sound of modern roots music.
His influence extended to film through The Harder They Come (1972), Club Paradise (1986), Cool Runnings (1993), and The Lion King (1994), which helped cement his status as a cultural force.
Cliff’s honors include two Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010, Jamaica’s Order of Merit in 2003, an International Song Festival win, and widespread recognition as one of reggae’s earliest global ambassadors.
His Legacy
Jimmy Cliff’s legacy is immense. Long before reggae became globally commercial, he served as its ambassador, blending rhythm, soul, activism, and hope.
His voice introduced the world to the emotional and political depths of Jamaican music and helped shape the genre’s international identity.
Artists across generations, from Bruce Springsteen to Willie Nelson and Fiona Apple, covered his songs.
His influence spread to filmmakers, rock musicians, and social movements. For many Jamaicans and fans worldwide, Cliff’s music was a source of strength and inspiration, with lyrics that affirmed resilience through hardship.
As tributes continue to pour in, one message echoed widely on social media captures the sentiment: “Jimmy Cliff est décédé… C’est toute une époque”.
His passing marks the end of an era. Yet his songs, his spirit, and his message of optimism endure. Through the music he left behind, Jimmy Cliff proved that, indeed, if you really want, you can get it.
Nigerian actor and content creator Odira Nwobu has passed away, a loss confirmed by the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Rollas, who told BBC Igbo, “It is true that Odira Nwobu is dead. He died in South Africa.”
Nwobu had travelled to the country for a performance alongside comedian Chibuike Gabriel, popularly known as Untouchable.
According to fellow actor Ajemba Stanley Chibueze (Stanley Ontop), Nwobu reportedly returned to his hotel on Sunday morning after a night out and experienced a heart attack.
He was said to have died shortly afterwards. A video circulating online shows him enjoying himself at a nightclub earlier that night, leaving many fans shocked by the sudden turn of events.
This tragedy comes months after Nwobu survived a serious car accident in early 2025. Fans remember him for his vibrant personality, comedic creativity, and his many Nollywood roles.
His passing has also reignited conversations about the growing prevalence of high blood pressure among young entertainers who often face demanding, high-stress schedules.
His death was also announced by Stan Ekwe on Facebook, who wrote, “I don’t want to believe that ODIRA NWOBU is gone… Heart attack at this age?”
While Emeka Rollas confirmed that the actor travelled with eight other influencers before he suddenly passed on November 24, the final cause of de@th remains unconfirmed as an autopsy is pending. As of the time of this report, Nwobu’s family has not released an official statement.
What You Should Know About Heart Attack
A heart attack (myocardial infarction) is a medical emergency, it happens when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is suddenly reduced or blocked, usually because a coronary artery is narrowed by plaque and a clot forms on a ruptured plaque.
Without rapid restoration of blood flow, part of the heart muscle begins to die. Prompt treatment limits damage and improves survival.
Causes Of Heart Attack
Risk factors that raise the chance of an attack: high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, unhealthy alcohol use, and family history. These conditions promote atherosclerosis and clotting.
Atherosclerotic plaque rupture and thrombosis: The most common pathway, fatty plaques in coronary arteries rupture and trigger a clot that blocks blood flow.
Coronary artery spasm (less common): sudden tightening of a coronary artery can reduce blood flow.
Embolism and non-atherosclerotic causes: In some patients (notably younger people and some women), causes such as coronary embolism or spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) can produce heart attacks.
Recent studies highlight that non-plaque causes may be under-recognized, especially in women.
Prevention Of Heart Attack
Preventive strategies focus on reducing risk factors and improving heart health: stop smoking, eat a heart-healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, be physically active (regular moderate exercise), control blood pressure, lower high cholesterol (often with statins), and manage diabetes.
Regular health checks help to recognize any signs early, medical control of chronic conditions limit heart-attack risk.
What You Should Do In An Emergency
Immediate actions: call emergency services at the first signs (chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea); chew aspirin if advised and not allergic (aspirin can slow clotting while awaiting treatment). Sit/lie down and get to hospital quickly, time is muscle.
Acute hospital treatment: depends on the type and timing of the heart attack. The two main approaches are urgent reopening of the blocked artery.
Additional emergency care may include oxygen, nitroglycerin, pain relief, antiplatelet drugs, and blood thinners.
In-hospital and longer-term care: after stabilisation, treatments and recommended cardiac rehabilitation (exercise, education, psychosocial support) to improve outcomes and reduce recurrence.
Some patients require coronary artery bypass surgery if multiple arteries are diseased. Long-term medications and lifestyle changes are essential to prevent a second event.
If you or someone else has symptoms suggestive of a heart attack, seek emergency help immediately.
Nigeria’s Senate Committee on Industries has renewed its call for decisive legislative and policy action to revive the country’s struggling automotive industry.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ roundtable in Abuja, the committee stressed that the sector holds enormous potential for job creation, industrial expansion, and economic diversification, if the right reforms are implemented.
On LN247’s morning show, automotive and public affairs analyst Obum Osigwe offered a clear accessment of the industry’s current state, outlining the structural challenges that continue to hinder growth. His insights underscored the need for stronger policy alignment, better infrastructure, and sustained investment to unlock the full promise of Nigeria’s automotive sector.
Nigeria’s suspension of the 15% import duty on petrol and diesel has sparked discussions around affordability, energy security, and the future of domestic refining.
The policy was originally introduced to encourage reliance on local refineries such as Dangote and emerging modular refineries by making imported fuel less attractive. With the duty now suspended, the government clearly prioritizes short-term relief for consumers and businesses facing rising costs.
But this shift raises deeper questions about long-term strategy. The move creates a trade-off between immediate affordability and the broader goal of strengthening local refining capacity. It underscores a complex tension between economic pressures, investor confidence, and the country’s ambition to become less dependent on fuel imports.
The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) has announced that the second edition of the West Africa Trophy will be staged in Abuja from December 4 to 14, 2025. The tournament will be held at the Cricket Oval, Package B of the MKO Abiola National Stadium.
This year’s edition will feature Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Zambia, who will join hosts Nigeria in what organisers describe as one of the most competitive regional cricket events to date. The championship is designed to boost the development of cricket across Africa, offering both emerging and established teams an important platform for international exposure.
According to the Federation, preparations are underway to ensure a seamless event, with a strong emphasis on raising the standard of the game and delivering an “unforgettable tournament experience.” Fans are expected to witness high-intensity clashes, tactical matchups, and standout performances from rising talents and seasoned players.
Organisers also expressed appreciation for the continued support from technical teams, regional partners, volunteers, and sponsors, noting that their contributions have been instrumental to the growth of the tournament.
Match fixtures, accreditation details, and broadcast information will be released in the coming days as Nigeria gets set to host ten days of competitive cricket in the nation’s capital.
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