Lifestyle

See what made Imisi win Big Brother Naija

Published

6 months ago

October 11, 2025

The winner of the recently concluded Big Brother Naija Season 10, Opeyemi Ayanwale, aka Imisi, tells OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL about her time in the house and plans for her career

How do you feel being the latest winner of the Big Brother Naija show?

I feel good, excited, happy, overwhelmed, and deeply grateful. There’s just a rush of emotions running through me right now. Honestly, it still feels surreal — I haven’t fully come to terms with the reality of my win. It’s an incredible feeling, and I’m still in shock.

What conversation did you share with your mother after your win?

We didn’t really talk much, but she said to me with so much warmth, “You are a child that made me proud.” Those simple words meant everything to me; they carried so much love, pride, and fulfillment.

What strategies would you say clinched you the grand prize?

My vulnerability was my greatest strength. If people think being myself was a strategy, then so be it. But honestly, I was just living my truth in the house, and that authenticity spoke for me.

What were some of your fondest memories in the house?

Some of my fondest moments were the times I acted like a clown and made everyone laugh. I also loved the diary sessions, especially when Big Brother complimented me. There was one time he admired my gele (headtie), and that compliment still rings in my head till today. I truly enjoyed the arena games, the shared experiences with everyone, and the courage it took to face our fears together.

If you had not won, who do you think would have emerged the winner?

I would have rooted for Kola because he’s an amazing person. I admire the way he carries himself, the way he speaks, and his charisma. I would have also loved Isabella to win; she’s beautiful, vulnerable, and talented. Dede is also someone I truly love and would have been happy to see win.

Have you figured out what you will do with the prize money?

I plan to take my time to figure that out. I don’t want to rush any decision. The money may seem like a lot, but I want to invest it wisely and in a way that it keeps generating returns.

Would you be returning to school to complete your university education?

Probably, but I am not completely sure yet. However, I am leaning towards pursuing something in business and entertainment.

You were one of the most expressive housemates. What are you bringing to the entertainment industry?

I believe viewers already saw a glimpse of what I can do, especially when it comes to acting. I know I’m a good actress, and even my fellow housemates often told me so.

Do you think Nollywood is ready for you?

I really hope they are. I would love it if Nollywood is ready for me because I’m ready for them.

Are there people you are hoping to work with in the industry?

There are quite a few. First on my list is Funke Akindele; she has always been my number one mentor. I also admire Toyin Abraham, Mo Abudu, Bimbo Ademoye, Bolaji Ogunmola, and several others whose works truly inspire me.

How did you feel knowing that some of these people rooted for you during the show?

I just got my phone last night (Monday), and people told me about some of the celebrities who rooted for me. I was genuinely shocked. I still can’t believe what they saw in me that made them support me that much.

If Big Brother calls again, would you answer that call?

Yes, definitely. I would because I now have a better understanding of what it takes to live and interact with different kinds of people.

If you had the chance to go back into the house, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t do anything differently. I would definitely grow in some areas, but I’d still remain true to myself.

You had some tense moments with fellow housemates. Do you plan to mend fences with anyone you had issues with, especially Faith?

That’s not going to happen. I have already forgiven him, but I’m not forcing anything. If reconciliation happens naturally, fine; if not, it’s okay.

The nickname that Kulture gave you, ‘Ijoba 606,’ is now trending. How did you feel about that?

I was honestly surprised. After the arena task where it came up, it just seemed to fade away; only for me to come out of the house and see that my fans actually embraced it.

Would you be adopting the nickname officially?

Yes, absolutely. It’s my name now, and I’m “owning” it proudly.

Being in the spotlight can be overwhelming for many new celebrities. How do you plan to stay relevant?

I am new to fame, but I’m determined to do my best. I’ll be seeking guidance and advice from experienced mentors who can help me navigate the industry the right way.

Do you have plans to move out of Ebute Meta where you live now that you’re famous?

Ebute Meta will always be my hood; that’s home. Even if I eventually move elsewhere, our family house will always be there, and that connection will never fade.

You proudly promoted your culture in the house, even when it earned you a strike. What did that mean to you?

I am a proud Yoruba girl, and that won’t change. I was just being myself, living freely, and expressing my culture with pride.

What was the first thing you did when you stepped out of the house as the winner?

The first thing I did was pray. Right after we got off the stage, I just took a moment to thank God and say a prayer of gratitude.

What was your initial reaction when your name was announced as the winner?

I was completely stunned. I honestly didn’t expect it, and I didn’t see it coming. The surprise was overwhelming.

You were sometimes misunderstood in the house. How did that make you feel?

It didn’t feel good, but I understood that most people didn’t really know me. They thought the real me was just a strategy, but it wasn’t; that was simply who I am.

What lesson has this entire Big Brother journey taught you?

It has taught me that absolutely anything is possible if you truly believe.

Regarding love and relationships, what’s next for you?

I am still taking my time to reflect on everything. Right now, my focus is on God. But going forward, I’d really like to venture into acting and sewing.

Now that you’re out of the house, how do you intend to level up?

I’m new to fame, so I plan to seek advice from people who have more experience, and learn from them.

How did you manage your sexual desires in the house?

I don’t want to talk about that.

What kind of roles would you like to take on as you pursue acting?

I believe I’m an extraordinary person who can do anything I set my mind to. So if any role is given to me, I can deliver. I just hope I won’t be limited to a particular type of role.

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Lifestyle

Political titans, Dangote attend El-Rufai mother’s burial

Published

2 days ago

March 30, 2026

Newsbreak365_Admin

On Sunday, dignitaries from different political divides were present at the Central Mosque, Abuja, in honour of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the deceased mother of the former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

From his residence in Abuja to the mosque and lastly to the Gudu cemetery, both members of the opposition parties and the ruling party were present to offer condolences.

Specifically, his successor, Governor Uba Sani, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, were present in his house and at the funeral prayers.

The two had parted ways politically with El-Rufai, though they were mutual friends before.

Also present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, and ex-Adamawa State governor, Jibrilla Bindow.

All Progressives Congress governors were also in attendance, including Governors Babagana Zulum (Borno) and Mohammed Bago (Niger); former national chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje; former Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, among others.

The 16th Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi, a former Zamfara State governor, Abdulaziz Yari, Senator Shehu Sani and billionaire businessman, Aliko Dangote, were also present.

At the interment of Hajiya El-Rufai at the Gudu Cemetery, Abuja, on Sunday, the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, held the two estranged friends (El-Rufai and Sani) by their shoulders and spoke a few words capable of melting the hardest of hearts.

Looking across his shoulders, he said, “Let us focus on the things that unite us because they are more than the things that divide us.

This life and everything it contains will end, and the grave is our end. No matter how you strive, you won’t get anything until Allah (God) grants it to you.”

Atiku had earlier announced his attendance in a post on his verified X handle, saying, “Today, I joined family, friends and associates of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the extended El-Rufai family at the Janazah (funeral prayer) of the matriarch of the family, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.

“May God continue to comfort the family and all who mourn her. And may Allah grant her Aljannah Firdaus. Amin.”

Prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, had earlier paid tributes to the deceased.

Tinubu, in a statement signed by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, commiserated with El-Rufai, urging him to find the strength to move on in the absence of his beloved mother.

“Nasir, please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother, Hajiya Umma, which happened today (Friday) in Cairo. As someone who had also lost an old mother, I share in your grief,” Onanuga wrote on behalf of President Tinubu.

Sani also earlier extended condolences on behalf of the Kaduna State Government and its people, describing the late Hajiya Umma as “a devoted mother and matriarch, a woman of rare grace, moral clarity, and quiet strength,” who embodied faith, patience, generosity, and community reconciliation.

“On behalf of the government and people of Kaduna State, I extend my deepest condolences to His Excellency, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, and the entire El-Rufai family on the passing of their beloved mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai,” Sani said.

The National Chairman of the APC, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, visited El-Rufai and his family, urging them to put their faith in God at all times.

He posted, “I visited the home of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai to commiserate with him and the entire family on the painful loss of his beloved mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, who passed away yesterday (Friday).

“The death of a mother is a deeply personal and irreplaceable loss. It is a moment of profound grief not only for the immediate family, but also for all who understand the priceless role of a mother in the life of her children and family.

“Mama lived a fulfilled life and, by the grace of God, leaves behind a legacy through her children, family and all those whose lives she touched.

“At this difficult time, I pray that Almighty Allah forgives her shortcomings, grants her Aljannatul Firdaus, and comforts Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the entire El-Rufai family, and all loved ones she left behind. May Allah grant the family the strength, patience and fortitude to bear this painful loss,” the APC Chairman wrote.

Also, the immediate past governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Dr Kayode Fayemi, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hajiya Umma.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Fayemi Media Office, the ex-governor described her death as a profound loss, not only to the El-Rufai family but also to all who were touched by her life of humility, faith, and service.

He noted that the late Hajiya Umma lived a life defined by strong moral values, devotion to family, and commitment to community—qualities he said are reflected in her son’s life and public service.

“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai. Her departure is a painful loss, but we take solace in the exemplary life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind,” Fayemi said.

The death came at a time when El-Rufai was in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission following his arrest over allegations of corruption and money laundering.

He was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on March 24 on a 10-count charge, with the case adjourned until March 31, 2026, for hearing of pending applications, including his bail request.

He was released temporarily from the ICPC custody, reportedly to witness the burial rites of his mother.

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Lifestyle

Veteran Filmmaker, Wale Adenuga Reveals Why He Sacked And Recalled Papa Ajasco

Published

3 days ago

March 29, 2026

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

According to Adenuga, the actor was initially removed from the role due to serious misconduct, including attempts to claim ownership of the Papa Ajasco brand.

Veteran filmmaker Wale Adenuga has revealed the reasons behind the removal and subsequent return of Abiodun Ayoyinka in his role as Papa Ajasco.

According to Adenuga, the actor was initially removed from the role due to serious misconduct, including attempts to claim ownership of the Papa Ajasco brand.

The conflict reportedly began when Ayoyinka organised a tour using the Papa Ajasco name without informing the production team.

The situation escalated after the Nigerian Copyright Commission discovered that he had tried to register the brand under his name, even though the producers already held the legal rights.

Adenuga, in an interview with Punch, described this act as a betrayal that led to the actor’s dismissal.

Despite the controversy, Ayoyinka was later brought back to the role, a decision Adenuga said was based on practicality and the actor’s talent rather than personal feelings.

He noted that while talented actors can be challenging, their skills sometimes make them indispensable.

The producer also discussed changes in the entertainment industry, mentioning that his productions have adapted to digital platforms.

Shows like Akpan and Oduma are now distributed mainly on YouTube, while WAPTV maintains an online presence and mobile app to reach audiences.

On the topic of royalties and actor welfare, Adenuga said the current system needs reform and that responsibility should not rest solely on producers.

He suggested that a well-structured industry could ensure fair compensation and long-term support for actors, reducing the burden on individual production teams.

He said, “That level of betrayal led to his dismissal. I understand the psychology of actors. Sometimes the most talented can also be the most difficult. As a producer, you sometimes have to choose between talent and temperament. Despite everything, I would still work with him because he is a good actor. Our content is now on social media.

“Some productions like Akpan and Oduma are distributed primarily on YouTube, while WAPTV also has an online presence and app. I agree that actors should benefit more in a structured system. It is not the sole responsibility of producers to manage long-term welfare. A proper industry structure would ensure that everyone is taken care of.”

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Lifestyle

PHOTOS: After Three Years Together, Nigerian Activist Edafe Okporo and Husband Nick Announce Divorce

Published

4 days ago

March 28, 2026

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

Nigerian gay rights and immigration activist Edafe Okporo has announced the end of his marriage to his husband, Nick Giglio, three years after the two tied the knot.

Okporo, who hails from Warri and has built a prominent profile in the United States as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and immigrant welfare, wed Nick back in July 2022. The union drew attention at the time, and their separation is drawing its own share of public interest now.

On Friday, March 27, Okporo took to his Instagram page to share the news directly with his followers, posting a photo of their intertwined hands alongside a joint statement from both him and Nick. The message was measured, dignified and clearly written by two people determined to handle a painful situation with as much grace as possible.

“Nick and I have made the mutual decision to end our marriage. We have officially filed for a no-fault divorce by mutual agreement. This has been a hard decision, and we are taking the time and space we need to move through it with honesty and respect,” the statement read in part.

They also asked their followers not to take sides or turn the moment into a spectacle. “You’re welcome to continue holding space for both of us, together or separately,” they wrote, signing off simply as Nick and Edafe.

The post went up just 13 minutes before it began circulating widely, and reactions have already started pouring in from followers wishing both men well as they move forward separately.