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
Veekee James Welcomes Baby Girl with Femi Atere
On May 13, 2026, award-winning fashion designer Veekee James and her husband, Femi Atere, announced the arrival of their first child, a baby girl named Eliana Adeife Atere. The couple shared the news on Instagram with a heartfelt video that had fans emotional from the very first frame.
Captioned; “She’s Here. 02-May-26. Eliana Adeife Atere. EL (God) and ANA (He has answered), signifying ‘My God has answered.’ 1 Samuel 1:27, For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him.”

Photo: Instagram
In the clip, Baby Eliana appeared in a soft pink knitted outfit with her name embroidered on the front. She was born on May 2nd at 19:12, weighing 3.83 kg and measuring at 53.5 cm.
Veekee publicly confirmed her pregnancy on February 3, 2026. Days later, she and Femi flew to Dubai for a gender reveal held between February 7 to 8, where they announced they were expecting a girl. From that moment, the countdown began. They had also shared that they tried to conceive for a year before receiving the news.

Photo: Instagram
Congratulations poured in following the announcement. Mo Abudu wrote, “Congratulations, my darling, we give God all glory. She is beautiful.” Osas Ighodaro said, “God is so good! Congratulations, my darling!! AND SHE IS ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL.”And Kie Kie added, “What the Lord has done for you is marvellous, and His joy will never depart from you.” The comment sections has remained active since then.
Veekee and Femi got married in February 2024, and Eliana Adeife Atere is their first child together.
Celebrity News
Genevieve Nnaji Returns to Screen in BBC Drama Series “Wahala” Alongside Adelayo Adedayo & Cush Jumbo
On Tuesday, 12th May 2026, BBC announced the full cast for “Wahala,” an upcoming six-part thriller featuring star-studded, female-led casts including Adelayo Adedayo, Deborah Ayorinde, Cush Jumbo, Susan Wokoma, and Genevieve Nnaji, marking a significant return for the actress.
The series tells a story of four Nigerian-British female friends navigating their lives, careers, love, and family in London. Their unshakeable bond and friendship are soon threatened by the arrival of a wealthy and charismatic new acquaintance, Isobel, whose arrival sets off the unfolding of secrets and hidden trauma from their past. Set in present-day London, the series explores psychological drama, cultural identity, and interpersonal conflict within a broader international narrative space, highlighting African stories.

Photo – Google
Adelayo Adedayo plays Simi, Cush Jumbo portrays Boo, while Susan Wokoma takes on the character of Ronke. The drama is said to explore themes of betrayal, buried truths, and the far-reaching consequences of long-hidden secrets, according to the producers.
Reacting to the project, Genevieve expressed her enthusiasm about joining the production.
“I’m very happy to be joining Wahala and to be working with such a brilliant team. It’s an intriguing story, and I’m excited to be a part of it,” she said.

Photo – Google
The film, “Wahala,” is adapted from the bestselling debut novel by Nikki May, with the screenplay written by Bafta-nominated writer, Theresa Ikoko. Produced by Firebird Pictures for BBC One and iPlayer, the executive producers are Nawfal Faizullah for the BBC, alongside Elizabeth Kilgarriff, Craig Holleworth, and Theresa Ikoko. The Directors include Leonora Lonsdale, Theresa Ikoko, and Remi Weekes, with Ado Yoshizaki Cassuto serving as a producer.
Following Lionheart, Genevieve Nnaji has kept a relatively low public profile while remaining selective with her projects. Her role in “Wahala” marks a significant international screen return, strengthening her presence in both African and global cinema.
Celebrity News
Alexx Ekubo Dies at 40 as Celebrities Pay Tribute
Alexx Ekubo, one of Nollywood’s most recognizable actors, has reportedly died at the age of 40, prompting widespread mourning across Nigeria’s entertainment industry and an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and fans.
Reports indicate that the actor had been privately battling cancer for several months, a struggle that remained largely out of public view. His prolonged absence from social media and entertainment circles had fueled concern among followers, particularly as his public appearances became increasingly limited.

Photo: Instagram
According to circulating industry accounts, Ekubo’s condition reportedly worsened in early May, leading to hospitalization in Lagos. He was said to have been placed on life support before passing away on Monday, May 11, 2026.
News of his death spread quickly across social media, where notable figures in Nollywood publicly shared their grief. Actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele reportedly paid tribute to the late actor with an emotional message, reflecting on their connection and expressing sorrow over not seeing him one final time. Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also publicly mourned Ekubo, while fellow actor Godwin Nnadiekwe described the loss as deeply painful, underscoring the emotional toll of the actor’s private health battle.
Ekubo built a strong reputation as one of Nollywood’s leading men through his performances in romantic dramas, comedies, and mainstream productions. Over the years, his charisma and screen presence established him as a household name within Nigerian entertainment.

Photo: Instagram
Beyond his film career, he was also recognized for his humanitarian contributions and broader cultural influence. His reported passing has left colleagues, fans, and industry insiders reflecting on both his professional legacy and his impact beyond the screen.
As tributes continue to pour in, Alexx Ekubo’s death marks a significant loss for Nollywood, with many remembering him for the career he built, the relationships he fostered, and the influence he maintained throughout his time in the public eye.
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