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Ooni Of Ife Criticizes BBNaija, Suggests Replacement

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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has suggested a replacement for the Big Brother Naija reality show.

While playing host to members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria in his palace at Ile Ife, Osun, the monarch criticized the #BBNaija show.

He said the reality show was “misrepresenting the goodness and integrity of the Nigerian youths”.

As a replacement, he suggested a reality show that would project the country’s values, cultures, and traditions.

He suggested that the new show could be tagged “The Big Nigeria Reality Show”.

“The proposed show will be structured in a way that young professionals, talented individuals, and others across several fields of endeavour will be showcased and helped to reach their peak.

“This would help the participants and also help viewers to have access to people that can be seen as role models,” Ooni added.

The royal father, who stressed the need for participation of more youths in leadership, lamented that the youths have misplaced their priorities and must redress it as a matter of urgent public importance.

“Nigerian youths are fond of accusing and abusing our leaders, stop abusing them contribute your own quota. Let’s wear our thinking caps and begin to act like the real future leaders that we are.

“In the last general election, the total number of vote cast was around 27 million while over 170 million people voted during the 2019 Big Brother Naija reality show.

“This is a practical reality of who Nigerian youths are and where our priorities lie as Nigerians.

“The funny side in all of these is that we still go to bed, have a good sleep, and wake up with the hope to meet a Nigeria we didn’t create.

“Unfortunately, every time I talk about this kind of attitude, everyone just laughs and moves on. What kind of nation are we building?

“When people say this country, or what kind of country is this, they are indirectly saying these people – it is the people that make a country; so what kind of Nigerian youths are we?” Ooni asked.

Earlier in his address, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, who was represented by Dr Mariam Abdullahi, a director in the ministry, explained that the youths have major roles to play in the country’s development.

“As a government, we will keep ensuring that we equip our youths towards prosperity,” the minister added.

Representing Governor Gboyega Oyetola of Osun at the event, the state’s Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Mr Yemi Lawal, explained that the youths have a lot to learn from elders towards reaching their goals.

“As much as we youths are important, let us be humble enough to learn from our elders because they were once like us. Humility, persistence, and patience is the key and we must be upright in our dealings,” he said.

The President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Mr. Sara-Igbe Sukubo, thanked the Ooni for what he described as an unthinkable warm reception for the youths.

“We have heard your kind words of wisdom and I want to assure you on behalf of the teeming Nigerian youths that we will put them into action.

“Fellow Nigerian youths, as we reflect on youth engagement for global action today, let us realize that a new era of opportunities and responsibilities is now upon us.

“Today’s youths are now being called upon to rise as practical stakeholders in governance and development. Let us rise to this challenge,” Sukubo said.

The youths at the occasion announced Ooni Ogunwusi as the ”Royal Father of Nigerian Youths”, in recognition and appreciation of his immeasurable commitment towards youth development in the country.

BIG STORY

“Our Stories Deserve The World Stage” — Dapo Opayinka On Nollywood, Diaspora Filmmaking, And Cultural Legacy

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UK-based bilingual Nollywood actor, MC, and filmmaker, Dapo Opayinka, speaks on his journey from theatre to the big screen, building bridges through storytelling, and what’s next for African narratives in global cinema.

Dapo, you’ve had quite a journey from theatre to film, from Nigeria to the UK. Let’s start with how it all began. What drew you into acting?

Dapo: (Smiling) Ah, where do I start? I think storytelling has always lived inside me. I was that kid who would mimic characters from films or make up my own scenes with cousins during family gatherings. But professionally, it really kicked off at the London Drama School. That place sharpened me. The stage gave me discipline, and theatre? It gave me soul.

Your roles span Yoruba tragedies, British-Nigerian productions, and Nollywood cinema. How do you navigate these different worlds?

Dapo: Honestly, I don’t separate them. They’re all part of me. Being bilingual and bicultural isn’t a balancing act; it’s more like a fusion. Whether I’m Mallam Gaskiya in Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again or Gbonka in The Gods Are Not to Blame, I bring a bit of both worlds to every character. That’s the magic.

One of your standout performances was as Etieno, a Kenyan freedom fighter. What did that role mean to you?

Dapo: That one was special. Etieno wasn’t just a character; he was a symbol. Playing him in Darkest Hour to Victory pushed me emotionally. I had to tap into the spirit of resilience, of struggle; and the African story of fighting for dignity. That role reminded me why I act.

You’ve made quite the transition into Nollywood with titles like Basira in London and Sista Sista. What’s that experience been like?

Dapo: Oh, Nollywood! It’s a whirlwind; but in the best way. It’s vibrant, demanding, and beautiful. Basira in London was hilarious to shoot. And Sista Sista… that one connected deeply with diaspora realities. However, the first movie I ever acted in was Captivated by Toyin Moore. Nollywood is evolving, and I’m grateful to be part of the shift that bridges tradition with modern diaspora stories.

Interviewer: And you’re not just acting; you’re producing also?

Dapo: Yep! I’ve produced four indie films; The Actor, The Passport, Amuwa, and Apeje. Each one is a passion project. They’re stories that reflect our struggles, humour, love… all in our voice. I’m now working on The Telepath, and it’s shaping up to be my boldest yet. Let’s just say… I’m going sci-fi with an African twist.

Ireke was privately screened at Cannes recently. Tell us about that.

Dapo: That was surreal. Cannes is every filmmaker’s dream, and to have Ireke: Rise of The Maroons shown there; even privately, was humbling. It’s a love letter to heritage and identity. The film is a historical drama blended with romance, and it tells a powerful and thought-provoking story about ancestral resistance.

Set in the Bight of Benin and Colonial Jamaica in the 17th century, it follows the uprising of African captives who were unjustly enslaved and forced into brutal labour. But they fought back. The film connects West African cultural roots—like Igbo camouflage and Yoruba resilience—with the legacy of the Maroons in Jamaica. Even Queen Nanny’s origins spark that playful Nigeria-Ghana rivalry!

We’re releasing nationwide in the UK and Nigeria on 25th July, and I honestly can’t wait for audiences to experience it. It’s raw, it’s emotional, and despite the tight budget, it’s a cinematic journey that celebrates the resilience of our people and the bond between Africa and the Caribbean. It’s what African cinema should be—global, grounded, and unapologetically ours.

You’ve also built a name as a charismatic MC. How did that side of you emerge?

Dapo: (Laughs) That came naturally. I love people. I love culture. Being an MC at diasporic events allows me to celebrate us—our weddings, festivals, even protests. It’s about connection. Plus, Yoruba proverbs? Always a hit!

What’s your ultimate goal as an actor?

Dapo: I want to tell our authentic story and promote the richness of our culture. I believe our stories; if told well, are universal. My goal is to connect the African experience with real human emotions that cross language, border, and race. Simple.

You once said, “Our stories deserve the world stage.” How close are we to that reality?

Dapo: We’re closer than we think. Platforms are opening up. Audiences are curious. What we need now is to keep telling the truth—our truth—with quality and pride. The world is watching. It’s our time.

Dapo, thank you. It’s been a pleasure.

Dapo: Thank you! And to every young creative out there: keep pushing. Your voice matters.

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BIG STORY

Dapo Opayinka: UK-Based Bilingual Nollywood Actor Bridging Cultures Through Stage And Screen

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Dapo Opayinka stands as a shining example of a UK-based bilingual Nollywood actor whose personal brand is grounded in versatility, cultural authenticity, and a deep commitment to storytelling.

Trained at the renowned London Drama School, Dapo’s career began on the theatre stage where he honed his craft under the spotlight of British-Nigerian productions.

He brought charisma and depth to his performances as Mallam Gaskiya in Ola Rotimi’s satire ‘Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again’ and as Gbonka in the Yoruba tragedy ‘The Gods Are Not to Blame’.

His role as Etieno, a Kenyan freedom fighter in Lydia Ollets’ ‘Darkest Hour to Victory’, showcased his range and ability to embody characters with historical and emotional gravity.

As a UK-based actor with deep Nigerian roots, Dapo has successfully crossed over into the dynamic world of Nollywood.

His on-screen credits include critically acclaimed titles like ‘Basira in London’ with Eniola Badmus, TY Moore’s ‘Captivated’, and popular streaming releases such as ‘My London Slaves’ and ‘Sista Sista’.

He also starred in the TV series ‘Apostle Do Good’, produced by Toyin Moore and aired on the UK’s first Black entertainment channel, Ben TV on Sky, where he played a lead supporting role that endeared him to a diverse audience.

Known for his impeccable command of both English and Yoruba, Dapo is also a charismatic Master of Ceremonies, making him the go-to host for diasporic cultural and entertainment events across Europe.

Beyond acting, Dapo is a storyteller in the truest sense; an emerging filmmaker who has produced four independent films: ‘The Actor’, ‘The Passport’, ‘Amuwa’, and ‘Apeje’.

Each of these projects reflects his vision of creating socially relevant, culturally rooted stories for global consumption. His current pre-production work on ‘The Telepath’ promises to push creative boundaries even further.

Dapo’s latest screen appearance in the forthcoming film ‘Ireke Movie’, which had a private viewing at the Cannes Film Festival, is poised to take his brand global ahead of its 25 July 2025 worldwide release.

He is not just acting in films; he is helping shape the very identity of UK-based Nollywood.

His growing reputation as a respected creative voice within the diaspora positions him as a key figure in the next generation of African cinematic storytellers abroad.

Dapo’s experience, bilingual fluency, stage presence, and production portfolio make his brand distinct and indispensable.

“As a performer and filmmaker, I believe our stories deserve the world stage. My aim is to connect the African experience with universal emotions through characters that feel real, relevant, and respected,” says Dapo Opayinka.

With a growing body of work and an unrelenting drive to elevate African voices, Dapo Opayinka is not only a UK-based bilingual Nollywood actor. He is a cultural bridge-builder, creative entrepreneur, and bold voice in the future of global African storytelling.

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BIG STORY

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa Endorses Laffmattazz, Says Ondo State Is Safe For Tourism And Entertainment [PHOTOS]

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The Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa has endorsed Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka and Friends.

Governor Aiyedatiwa who received Gbenga Adeyinka, the Grand Comedian of the Nigeria (GCON) on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, expressed his endorsement of the show and said the state is happy to host Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka and Friends at the FMT Events Center, Ala Quarters, Akure on Thursday, June 12.

Governor Aiyedatiwa while pulling his weight behind the comedy event, disclosed that Ondo State is a safe haven for tourism and entertainment, thereby promising to work with the organisers to reel out a successful show.

The ‘Sho Le’ crooner, Sean Tizzle will lead the repertoire of musical performances including Oyomesi, Abbey Awesome, Lekzido, Ruby, Miko Fridan and JP3PLE2.

Talented comedians on the bill are; Omobaba, Bash, Erekere, Baba Alariya, Kojah Kage, ATM, Chi Young, General Olak, Dr Spencer, Dr Arotele, MC Stylo, Taichi, Prince Phelar, Jingle, Wisdom the Mimic Guy, Honda Stevo, Odogwu, Iparipate, Emzuma and Ofak.

According to Gbenga Adeyinka, Red Carpet starts by 3 PM while the main show commences by 4 PM. “Tickets are available online at (https://www.funzweb.com/events/laff-mattazz-about-time-akure-158) and https://shorturl.at/FfVZP. Physical tickets can be purchased at Madigrazz Lounge, (Akure Mall),

Iya Saheed Alamala, Isolo Street, Akure, Madison Restaurant, Akure-Owo Road, Alagbaka and Vintage Royale, Off Airport Road, Oba Ile,” he said.

The show themed ‘About Time Tour’ is powered by FIRS, ODIRS, Omni Blu Aviation and supported by Ondo State and Eleganza Industries.

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