Entertainment
AGN Condemns Kidnapping Of Members …. As Nkem Owoh Regains Freedom
The National President of Actor Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Segun Arinze has condemned the kidnapping of Nollywood stars stressing that it is not only a criminal act but an embarrassment to the Guild.
He maintained that in the past few months two of their top actors, Peter Edochie and Nkem Owoh have been kidnapped and later released after series of appeals and described the situation as very unfortunate.
The president who stated this recently following the release of Nkem Owoh by his abductors on Sunday, said the actor was kidnapped early last week along the Enugu/Port Harcourt expressway while the kidnappers demanded N50 million ransom. With the release of the Nollywood King of comedy, people are anxious to know whether some money was paid before he was released, or they released him unconditionally as the AGN has earlier demanded, but so far, there is no concrete evidence about the condition of his release.
One name which readily comes to mind when Nigerian movie especially comedy is mentioned is Nkem Owoh. Ukwa as he is also known who is an engineer by profession later veered into acting with memorial Hospital, a popular soap opra that was aired on NTA in the later part of 1980.
Apart from having written and produced hit comedy flicks like ‘pam pam,’ ‘yogo pam pam,’ sawani ,’ Osuofiason 1&2 etc, the King of comedy has also featured in numerous films such as ‘Akidi’ Ukwa,’ ‘Police Officer,’ “Omugwo,’ ‘Agaba’ ‘Osuofia in London,’ ‘Return from London’ and ‘ I go chop your dollar among others.
However, the movie that earned him African movie Academy Awards’ (AMAA) best actor of the year 2008 is stronger than pain. The same movie that gave Kate Henshaw the best actress of the year award at the AMAA.
Meanwhile his kidnap and release has elicited reactions from showbiz personalities and the general public. According to Mr Ceaser Kagho, Zonal co-ordinator National film and video censors board (NFVCB) Port Harcourt, the incident is very unfortunate stressing that kidnapping of Nollywood stars has assumened an alarming proportion in the country and something must be done about it to forestall future occurrence.
Veteran actor, Columbus Irosoanga said “I don’t know why Nigerian artistes should be kidnapped because they are not well paid, so how can they pay the huge ramson demanded by the kidnappers” It is rather unfortunate, they should be the ones to donate money to the artistes and not the other way round.”
In his reaction, the National president of video Club Owners Association of Nigeria (VCOAN) Hon Rex Akah noted that Nkem Owoh is a hardworking man, struggling to feed him self and his family, he is not a politician nor has he embezzled government money, why should they leave the corrupt politicians to harass an innocent man who is struggling to make ends meet. I pray that God should forgive them for they don’t know what they have done.
Entertainment
Stephanie Linus, First Black Recipient Of Lennox K. Black Prize
The Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising outstanding individuals.
The actress was honoured with the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine by Thomas Jefferson University in America in recognition of her outstanding contributions to social activism and impact through her work.
This remarkable achievement, they said, highlights her dedication to societal well-being and marks her as the first Black recipient of this distinguished award.
The Tide Entertainment reports that the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to the medical field, promoting scientific discovery and advancements.
Named after Lennox K. Black, a Canadian manufacturing executive known for his philanthropic efforts and service on various boards, including Thomas Jefferson University, the prize celebrates excellence in medical innovation and global contribution to health and medicine.
The actress is renowned for her activism and impactful work in areas concerning women’s health and rights, including her efforts to combat issues like fistula and gender-based violence.
According to the award organisers she has been instrumental in bringing about social change through her films and campaigns. They added that her work extends beyond borders, affecting lives and policies internationally, embodying the spirit of the Lennox K. Black International Prize.
On receiving the award, Stephanie expressed her gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to using her platform for social good.
“This recognition goes beyond me; it is for all the women and girls fighting for a healthier, safer world. It amplifies our message and our work. It strengthens my resolve to continue advocating for gender equality, social justice, and improved maternal and reproductive health in Africa,” she said
Susan Aldunge, Interim President of Thomas Jefferson University, admired the actress, saying, ‘‘Your ability to educate while humbly addressing the cultural obstacles impeding progress for young women is commendable. Your intelligent, personal take on the necessary human rights changes has deeply impacted all lucky to encounter you. Congratulations once more on this well-deserved award and the acknowledgement of your efforts.’”
Ms Aldunge further said that Thomas Jefferson University, a leader in medical education and research, hosts the award to underscore its mission of improving lives through innovation in health care.
‘‘The university is proud to honour Stephanie Linus, whose work aligns with Jefferson’s values of creativity, collaboration, and compassion in pursuing excellence in medicine and beyond.
“Awarding the Lennox K. Black International Prize to Stephanie Linus celebrates her achievements and signals a broader recognition of the importance of social activism in medicine and health,” she added.
“Her pioneering efforts continue to inspire and effect change, paving the way for a healthier, more equitable world’’.
Stephanie, who was named Chairperson of the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Best International Feature Film (IFF) category of the Oscars in August 2023, is best known for her 2015 advocacy movie ‘Dry’, which tells the story of a 13-year-old girl whose parents marry her off to a 60-year-old man, with devastating consequences.
Entertainment
‘I’ll Continue To Ask For My Balance’ – Phyna reacts.
Ilebaye’s revelation came just after Phyna had publicly called out the organizers for withholding some of her prizes.
Phyna, who revealed this to Newsmen insinuated that Ilebaye broke the gender code by announcing that she got her full prize money.
She also stressed that she would continue to demand for her balance, stating that she worked hard for the money during the show’s 72-day duration.
“I believe I should at least get what I worked so hard for 72 days. You all suddenly remembered your alert screenshots and IG Live………… Common……one among others is 1BTC which is over 80m in today’s market.
“To those who got their money in full
I’m happy for you. As a poor man’s child, let me ask for my money and other items remaining.,” She added.
Entertainment
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