Entertainment
Top Nigerian Musicians Mourn OJB’s Death
Popular producer, singer
and studio owner, OJB Jezreel, has passed away. Inside sources disclosed that OJB Jezreel whose real name is Babatunde Okungbowa died Tuesday morning June 14, from a relapse of kidney disease he successfully operated upon three years ago when friends, family and well wishers pooled together over N26 million to help him conduct the kidney transplant.
His first wife, Mabel, had donated one of her kidneys to him. He reportedly had the relapse about two weeks ago with his family keeping him on dialysis. The singer went into coma on Monday and later died. He is survived by three wives and 8 children.
The ‘Jiggaman’ is a renowned producer, writer and executive producer for over two decades. He started music in 1985. His biggest breakthrough was with 2face’s ‘African queen’ setting a yet to be beaten record not just in Nigeria but in Africa 10 million copies in Nigeria alone and 8 million copies internationally, this made him the most sort after producer in Nigeria and some regions of Africa.
In June 2013, he revealed to Nigerians that his two kidneys had stopped working. In July 4, 2013, former Governor of Rivers State, Rt Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, ordered that a sum of $100,000 be given to him (OJB) for his kidney transplant which is the total sum needed for the operation and also covered feeding and accommodation cost. The musician had a successful kidney transplant operation in India on October 21, 2014, His first wife, Mabel donated one of her kidneys to him.
OJB released a new track in May 31st 2016 titled “O da bi, he died at the age of 49 just a month to his 50th birthday.
Meanwhile, top music industry acts including Peter Okoye, Yemi Alade, Sound Sultan among others, have come out to pay tribute to the late producer as OJB was said to have helped build the careers of some of the biggest names we know in the Nigeria music Industry today including the likes of Wizkid, Psquare, 2-face Idibia, Yemi Alade and many more.
“We all mourn the dead, but we don’t know who goes next. Life is a lesson and an Odyssey. Till we meet again I will Cherish the memories I have the opportunity you gave us with your open door policy that nowadays stardom packagers know nothing of from Sodiyen to every other massive hit you made your humility remain unchanged. I pray Paradise for you,” they said.
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.
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.
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