Entertainment
Gnewzy Reveals $200,000 Ransom Paid for His Release After Abduction
Nigerian Afro-pop singer Emuemu Oghala Goodnews, widely known as Gnewzy, has disclosed the amount paid for his release following his kidnapping.
Gnewzy was abducted in April 2024 along Eklat Road in Ughelli, Delta State. His manager and brother, Obas9ice, narrowly escaped the abduction.
The kidnappers initially contacted Dilly Umenyiora, the CEO of Gnewzy’s record label, demanding a ransom of $200,000. Gnewzy was eventually freed on May 3.
In a recent interview with HipTV, Gnewzy shared details of his ordeal, revealing that the full ransom amount of $200,000 was paid for his release.
He recounted the events leading up to his abduction, explaining that he had been in Delta State for a radio tour and had decided to host a small listening party in Ughelli, his hometown, to wrap up the event.
After the party, while heading back to their apartment, Gnewzy and his brother stopped to pick up someone who ultimately decided not to join them.
As they were making a U-turn on their way home, they were suddenly confronted by men dressed in police uniforms who forced them out of their vehicle.
The attackers, who identified themselves as police officers, threatened to shoot Gnewzy’s brother if he did not flee into the nearby bushes. The assailants then covered Gnewzy’s face and transported him to a different location.
Despite the traumatic experience, Gnewzy reported that he was not physically harmed; the abductors provided him with food and instructed him to cooperate, warning him of severe consequences if he attempted to resist or escape.
Gnewzy’s revelation sheds light on the alarming trend of criminals impersonating law enforcement to carry out abductions and other crimes.
Rapper Erigga has sparked controversy with his bold views on Nigerian women and romance.
He recently claimed that Nigerian women prioritize financial gain over true romance in relationships. According to him, to them, romance is all about receiving monetary gifts, while love simply means having their bills paid.
On his X handle, Erigga wrote, “Nigerian women aren’t deep. They date for survival, not for love. So, when a man is intentional, it means he’s rich. Romance to them is just a monetary gesture, and love is about paying their bills. What you’re calling relationships in Nigeria isn’t it.” His remarks have ignited heated debates online.
Afrobeats star Iyanya has responded to accusations that he’s taken sides in the ongoing rivalry between Wizkid and Davido.
The long-running beef between the two artists flared up again last year with heated social media exchanges. Iyanya, who previously collaborated with Wizkid on the hit track ‘Sexy Mama,’ has recently faced criticism for showing public support for Davido’s music.
On Wednesday, an X user, @Akubasteeny, called out Iyanya in the comments, questioning why he appeared to switch sides and back Davido over Wizkid.
Iyanya was quick to set the record straight, saying he has no issues with either artist. He made it clear that his support for Wizkid is just as strong as his support for any other artist.
He went on to explain that fans are often the ones trying to create divisions between artists, writing, “I don’t have a problem with any artist. I play Wizkid’s ‘Made in Lagos’ and ‘Morayo’ just like I play songs from other artists. Most of us artists listen to each other’s work when it drops to stay updated on the sound.”
He also shared how he’s supported artists like Fola, Fireboy, and Joeboy before they hit big. “I’ve been playing their songs from the start. I tell you, I have no enemies. Fans are the ones pushing these agendas. Me and Burna had a great time together at the club just three weeks ago.”
Nigerian music star Adewale Mayowa Emmanuel, better known as Mayorkun, has sparked curiosity after hinting that he may be married.
During a recent chat on Arise TV, the singer confirmed he’s no longer available, saying there’s no space for anyone else in his life. When asked about his partner, he chose to keep things private for now.
“I’m off the market. No chance for any other girl,” he said. “I won’t mention her name or say anything about her just yet. But with time, everyone will know.”
Mayorkun’s last known relationship was with British model Cocainna. Back in October 2023, he confirmed their breakup, explaining that things simply didn’t work out between them. Despite the split, he noted that they’re still on good terms.
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