Entertainment
Veteran Kannywood Actor, Malam Nata’ala Is Dead
The Hausa-film industry has been struck by fresh sorrow with the passing of renowned actor Malam Nata’ala (also known as Mata Na Mato), a native of Potiskum, Yobe State.
Reports are that the veteran actor died after a long-standing illness. Naija News reports that Malam Nata’ala rose to prominence for his role as an almajiri-school teacher in the popular Arewa24 drama series Dadin Kowa.
Before his death, he had publicly appealed for help, posting online that he was battling a serious health condition and seeking financial assistance for medical bills.
In August 2025, Malam Nata’ala disclosed his struggle with cancer, revealing the grim reality of his health and his plea for both prayers and financial support:
“I am battling a serious illness… I need your prayers and cooperation, including financial help,” Nata’ala had appealed.
At the time, he indicated that every three weeks, he was spending approximately ₦250,000 on injections, not including medication or hospital bed costs.
His social media posts notably garnered international attention when the President of Niger, Abdourahamane Tchiani, stepped in and donated ₦27 million to support his treatment.
Malam Nata’ala, born Mata Yakubu in Potiskum, Yobe State, became widely loved for his portrayals of humble teachers and community figures. His role in the series “Dadin Kowa” cemented his status as a household name in Northern Nigeria.
Friends and colleagues remember him not only for his talent but for his humility and willingness to engage with his fans.
Naija News reports that Nata’ala’s public call for help revealed a rare vulnerability in an industry where many actor health stories remain hidden, sparking renewed discussion about welfare and support for film practitioners.
News of his passing triggered an outpouring of grief across the Kannywood community, with many expressing concern over how entertainers in the region cope with serious illness and the lack of official social safety nets.
Nigerian music star, Davido Adeleke, better known as Davido, has publicly called out the lawyer representing his first baby mama, Sophia Momodu, following their recent court session over joint custody of their daughter, Imade Adeleke.
Daily voice recalls that drama ensued during the court proceedings when Sophia’s lawyer questioned how Davido could guarantee Imade’s safety when he was unable to protect his son, Ifeanyi, who passed away in October 2022.
The lawyer’s comment ticked Davido off, who reportedly lost his cool and slammed the lawyer in the courtroom.
The court proceedings were halted for a while, and when the court reconvened, the judge asked Davido to apologise to the court and the lawyer, but the singer reportedly refused, insisting he can never apologise to the lawyer for using his deceased son against him.
Taking to social media shortly after the hearing, Davido did not hold back, accusing the lawyer of being unprofessional during the proceedings.
The singer also expressed anger that his late son, Ifeanyi, was mentioned during the session, describing the move as insensitive given what he and his wife have been through.
Davido further called the lawyer a wicked human being, insisting that he defeated her during the courtroom exchange.
He wrote, “@belachukwu I disgraced you in the courtroom. I was teaching you your work, you couldn’t even take it and then went on to mention my son… like I said in the courtroom. I pray you never go through what me and my wife have gone through ever… and you were still smilling smirking… You are a wicked human being. You are the worst lawyer ever. I beat you in court! you are not learned.”
Entertainment
SO SAD: Tears As Aunty Ajara Passes Away Following Battle With Kidney Ailment, Pregnancy
Ridwan Lasisi, the elder brother of petite actress Aunty Ajara, has shared the sad news of her demise.
The actress had been battling for her life for some time while receiving treatment in the hospital, prompting her colleagues to appeal to Nigerians for financial assistance.
A few days after several actors made posts about her condition, Mama Nonetwork shared updates on what had truly happened to the actress.
According to her, Aunty Ajara was battling pregnancy complications as well as kidney-related issues. It was added that her condition was not improving, leading to renewed calls for donations to support her treatment.
In a new video that has been making the rounds online, Ridwan announced that the actress had passed away.
In the recording, Ridwan stated that doctors confirmed the sad news of Aunty Ajara’s passing overnight. Appreciation was expressed to her colleagues who stood by the family during the difficult period.
Gratitude was also extended to Nigerians and fans who donated towards her treatment. It was explained that donations should stop, as the actress is no more.
According to him, the appeal for funds was made because of Aunty Ajara, and with her passing, there was no longer a need for further contributions.
Nigerian singer Davido has broken his silence following his loss at the 2026 Grammy Awards held on Sunday, February 1.
Daily voice reports that his song featuring Omah Lay, With You was nominated in the Best African Music Performance category, but he did not take home the prize.
After the awards night, the singer shared photos from the event on his Instagram page, with the caption, “Oluwa Dey My Side.” South African star Tyla had clinched the prize for Best African Music Performance category for her song Push 2 Start.
The category featured several Nigerian artistes, including Burna Boy with Love, Davido with With You featuring Omah Lay, and the joint entry from Ayra Starr and Wizkid titled Gimme Dat. Also nominated was Hope & Love by Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin. Despite the heavy Nigerian presence, none of the country’s nominees emerged victorious.
The Best African Music Performance category was created to give African sounds wider global attention, and this year’s shortlist once again reflected Nigeria’s strong impact in the music space, with three Nigerian acts making the final list.
Tyla’s latest win makes her a two-time recipient of the Best African Music Performance award. She first claimed the honor in 2024 with Water, becoming the first artiste to win the category. Tyla, 24, is a South African singer and songwriter known for blending amapiano, pop and R&B sounds.
Abuja Elections: APC Drags PDP To Courts
2027 Shocker: Popular Nigerian Cleric Predicts Total Collapse of Three Major Parties
BREAKING: Sultan Receives Moon Sighting Report, Announces Date of Eid-ul-Fitr in Nigeria
Former Super Eagles Star Loses Life Savings, Duped By A Pastor of ₦1.2 Billion
These ’90s fashion trends are making a comeback in 2017
