Celebrity News
Stars Turn Up for Ini Edo’s Dad’s Burial
If there’s one thing Nollywood knows how to do, it’s supporting themselves, whether for a blockbuster premiere, a glamorous wedding, or a moment of deep sorrow. Over the weekend, the industry’s biggest stars came together in Akwa Ibom for the burial of veteran actress father Ini Edo, Jonathan Ekim. What should have been a solemn affair turned into a blend of emotions, tears, heartfelt tributes, and, of course, the unmistakable glamour that follows the entertainment elite.
But honestly, If you were expecting a normal, somber funeral, you clearly don’t know how Nollywood rolls. From A-list celebrities in their best traditional attire to a grand procession fit for a king, Ini Edo’s father’s final farewell was nothing short of a spectacle.

Friends and Supporters
A Star-Filled Send-Off
Ini Edo is not just a Nollywood queen; she’s family to many in the industry. So, when it was time to lay her father to rest, her colleagues pulled up in full force. The guest list read like a who’s who of Nollywood royalty, with the likes of Rita Dominic, Uche Jombo, Kate, Mary Remi Njoku and Toke Makinwa making grand entrances.
Desmond Elliot, who has perfectly blended politics with entertainment, was present, offering words of encouragement to Ini Edo. And of course IK Ogbonna, Ini best friend known for his flawless style, also attended, embodying the fusion of mourning and elegance that characterized the event.
The ceremony was a testament to the unity and friendship within the Nollywood community, with stars turning up in style to honor Ini Edo’s late father. And if there was ever a way to combine mourning and style, the stars at this event certainly cracked the code.
Fashion Meets Tradition
Now, let’s talk about the outfits! Because, come on, did you think Nollywood celebrities would attend a high-profile event without making a fashion statement?
Ini Edo herself dazzled in a pure white attire, a perfect representation of grace and mourning. Her attire featured elaborate beadwork and designs, complemented by a well-styled gele (headwrap) and coral bead accessories, giving her a regal presence.
Guests for Ini Edo burial wore an aso-ebi in green and orange. And everyone showed up at their best, different styles and designs graced the occasion. It was another opportunity for Nigerian fashion designers to showcase their talent.
From the glamorous outfits to the heartfelt tributes, the event was a perfect blend of tradition, style, and deep emotion.

Toke Makinwa Graced The Event in Style
Tears, Tributes, and Fond Memories
As much as the event was a glamorous view, it was also deeply emotional. Ini Edo, known for her strong on-screen presence, broke down in tears multiple times during the ceremony. Her colleagues surrounded her, offering their support and warm embraces.
The funeral service was filled with heartfelt tributes, as friends and family members shared touching stories about her late father. He was described as a man of wisdom, a pillar of his community, and a loving father who always believed in his daughter’s dreams.
Uche Jombo, visibly moved by the eulogies, spoke about how Ini Edo’s father had always been a father figure to many of them in the industry. “He was our biggest cheerleader. He celebrated Ini’s wins as if they were his own, and today, we celebrate him,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.

Merlin Boss Standing Out
A Celebration of Life
In Nigeria the reception after the wake and burial is a different ball game. The atmosphere moved from sorrow to celebration as the guest moved to an open air reception. Filled with decoration and traditional music in the air.
A live band kept the mood alive, performing a mix of highlife, gospel, and Afrobeat tunes. Even in grief, the Edo family ensured that their father was given a grand send-off.
Guests enjoyed meals in local delicacies, from afang soup to jollof rice that had people going for second and third plates. Let’s be honest, no Nigerian gathering is complete without food that leaves guests licking their fingers.

Ini Edo
The Internet Reactions
With social media being the ever-watchful eye that it is, videos and pictures from the event flooded timelines. Nigerians praised the Nollywood family for standing by one of their own, while others debated the extravagant nature of celebrity burials.
One Twitter user wrote, “Nollywood burials be looking like AMVCA afterparties. Rest in peace to Ini Edo’s dad, though.”
On TikTok page, someone made a content picking on Ini Edo’s dance steps. “Why would Ini Edo be dancing like this on her father’s burial”
Another added, “Ini Edo’s dad must have been a great man to have so many stars turn up for him. May his soul rest in peace.”
However, not everyone was delighted. Some criticized her for attending a birthday party in Ghana shortly after the burial, calling it “insensitive.” But hey, grief is personal, and people cope with it in different ways.

Ini Edo’s Father
Final Thoughts
Losing a loved one is never easy for anyone, it was warming to see Nollywood celebrities give their support to Ini Edo in this difficult time. The ceremony was a perfect blend of tradition, love,fashion and star power.
Proving once again that in the Nigerian entertainment industry, family extends beyond blood ties.
To Ini Edo and her family, we send our deepest condolences. May Papa Jonathan Ekim’s soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to shine through those he left behind.
Also read : Vivien Chidera Okafor: The Fabulous Lawyer Redefining Entertainment
Celebrity News
Ini Dima-Okojie Expecting First Child With Husband
Actress Ini Dima-Okojie, known for her screen-work and style presence is stepping into motherhood. Ini shared the news that she and her husband, Abasi Ene-Obong, are expecting their first child in a shoot that felt more like a gallery of fine art, than an announcement.

Photo Credit: Chuchuojekwe
For her shoot, she wore a white plissé maxi dress designed by Toju Foyeh. The gown had a daring deep V-neckline and a thigh-high slit, which balanced the volume of the pleated fabric. The key highlight of the gown was the cape-like draping from the shoulders that flowed into a sweeping train, creating a cloud-like effect against the painted backdrop. Her hair was styled in long waves with a smooth middle part. Her makeup, done by Rise and Glam Beauty, followed a “Golden Goddess” theme. It consisted of warm earthy tones, and a nude lip that enhanced her natural glow.
To highlight her shape and the intricate pleating of the dress, she went for minimal jewelry, gold drop earrings and she was barefoot.

Photo Credit: Chuchuojekwe
Ini and Abasi Ene-Obong got married in 2022. Ini first opened up in 2020 about being diagnosed with uterine fibroids back in 2017. In 2024, she made headlines again revealing that, three years after undergoing surgery to remove fibroids, the symptoms had returned. Through all of it, she spoke about her experience openly, at a time when many women were going through the same in silence. This pregnancy, which she described as a miracle, carries added weight given everything she has been through to get here.

Photo Credit: Chuchuojekwe
Ini Dima-Okojie has built a steady acting career over the years, with a body of work that shows passion and consistency. She approaches her craft with clear intent, and that discipline is visible across her performances. As she steps into motherhood, this new phase adds to an already evolving career, marking another personal milestone for the Nollywood star.
Celebrity News
Bovi and Nomzamo Mbatha to Host the 12th AMVCA
The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) announced its 12th edition. Organizers have announced that Nigerian comedian Bovi Ugboma and South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha will co-host the 12th edition, after IK Osakioduwa’s ten-year run as the ceremony’s main host.

Photo: Instagram
The decision to pair Bovi and Nomzamo reflects a shift toward a pan-African celebration. Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice, noted that the duo was selected to bring a refreshed tone to the hosting, showing the range of African film industry.
Bovi, who has previously hosted the AMVCA red carpet, described this promotion to the main stage as a career milestone. In an interview with Sunday Scoop, he said:
“That’s a plus. It’s pretty much the biggest award show in Africa, so for me, it’s a major feather to my heart and a colour to my résumé.”
In his reaction to the news, Bovi said he was surprised.
“I wasn’t expecting it. Considering IK has been the host from the beginning, I was really happy when I got the call. I saw it as a big plus for me.”

Photo: Instagram
Meanwhile, Nomzamo Mbatha, highlighted the importance of the awards in connecting the African film industry, stating she is honored to be part of a night that celebrates “African excellence on a global scale.”
The 12th AMVCA is scheduled for May 9, 2026, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos. While the technical categories are decided by a jury led by Joke Silva, the “Best Digital Content Creator” and other fan-favorite categories remain in the hands of the viewers. Voting is active on the official Africa Magic website and will close on April 26, 2026.
The nomination list is led by 2025 theatrical releases. E.g:
“Gingerrr” — 9 nominations.
“The Herd” — 9 nominations.
“To Kill a Monkey” — 8 nominations.
“My Father’s Shadow” — 7 nominations.
“The Serpent’s Gift” and “3 Cold Dishes” — 6 nominations each

Photo: Instagram
Celebrity News
Chioma Ikokwu Chooses Refined Cream Tailoring for Event on Nigerian Real-Life Stories
Yesterday April 17, 2026, Chioma Ikokwu attended an event organised by her father, Chief Agunze Chib Ikokwu, through his foundation. The evening centred on real-life stories from the Nigerian-Biafran War, and the attendees alone would tell you everything about the kind of room it was. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole, OFR, former Nigerian Ambassador and renowned historian, chaired the occasion. Osita Chidoka, OFR, former Minister of Aviation, served as book reviewer. Professor Pat Utomi was among the speakers, Onyeka Onwenu, and Charly Boy was also in attendance.When it was Chioma’s turn to speak In her own words she said:
“Disappeared again, and people hesitated, unsure, then slowly, cautiously activity resumed. There was a sense, perhaps hope that the danger had passed, but within moments, the sound returned louder, closer. There was confusion, movements, people trying to gather their things to leave quickly. I moved instinctively, searching for somewhere, anywhere, for cover. Then just as suddenly as it had begun, it was over. The silence that followed was unlike anything I had ever known. It was heavy, unreal, as though the world itself had paused. Slowly people began to emerge, faces searching, voices uncertain. I walked forward trying to make sense of what had just happened, and then I saw her again.”

Chioma Ikokwu: Instagram
At the event, Chioma arrived wearing a structured, cream-colored two-piece suit. The jacket had a clean, minimalist neckline with a subtle keyhole detail and structured shoulders. It was fitted at the waist with a matching tonal belt that had a gold buckle, emphasizing on her shape. Chioma paired the jacket with matching high-waisted, wide-leg trousers that elongate her frame. Chioma’s hair was styled in a full side-parted bob with curled-under ends, a signature look that complemented the structured nature of her outfit. Her makeup featured long lashes, a simple smokey eye, and a neutral, glossy lip. For accessories, she carried a Hermès Kelly classic white top-handle bag, for jewellery she chose a chunky gold curb-link chain necklace and matching gold stud earrings, adding a warm touch to the monochromatic palette and she completed the outfit with patterned, pointed-toe heels.

Chioma Ikokwu: Instagram
Compared to the outfits she wore for the Premiere of “The Return of Arinzo” earlier this year, from the deep burgundy velvet corset and skirt, to the beaded halterneck gown in swirls of gold, red, orange, and green, to a black embroidered cape with cowrie shell detailing, the Nigerian-Biafran War real-life stories event called for something completely different. She went with cream, and clean tailoring.
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