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Court Remands Former P-Square Manager Jude Okoye in Ikoyi Prison

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Jude Okoye EFCC

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Justice A.O. Owoeye of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos on Wednesday ordered the former manager of the defunct music group, P-Square, Mr Jude Okoye Chigozie, to be remanded in the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

The showbiz personality was brought before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside his company, Northside Music Limited, on a seven-count charge bordering on money laundering to the tune of N1.38 billion, $1 million and £34,537.59.

“That you, Jude Okoye Chigozie and Northside Music Ltd sometimes in 2022, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this court, did directly acquire a landed property known as No 5, Tony Eromosele Street, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos worth N850 million, which money you knew or reasonably ought to have known forms part of proceeds of unlawful act and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (2) (d) and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022,” one of the charges read.

“That you, Jude Okoye Chigozie and Northside Music Ltd sometimes in 2022, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this court, did indirectly using bureau de change, converted the sum of $1,019,762.87, domiciled in Access Bank Plc operated by Northside Music Ltd to the naira equivalent and remitted into various bank accounts with intention of concealing that the said fund formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18 (2)(a) and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022,” another charge read.

After the charges were read to him, Mr Okoye pleaded “not guilty”, following which prosecution counsel, L.P. Aso, applied for a trial date and for him to be remanded in a correctional facility.

However, his lawyer, Mr Inibehe Effiong, informed the court of his client’s bail application and prayed for a short date of adjournment to enable its hearing, praying the court to have the defendant remanded in the EFCC custody pending the hearing of the bail application.

But the prosecution counsel objected, arguing that the commission’s holding facility was already congested with suspects awaiting arraignment and that the court should remand the defendant in the correctional facility since he has taken his plea.

Justice Owoeye ordered that the defendant be remanded in Ikoyi Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter till February 28, 2025, for the hearing of the bail application and April 14, 2025 for trial.

Aduragbemi Omiyale is a journalist with Business Post Nigeria, who has passion for news writing. In her leisure time, she loves to read.

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Trending Africa Magic Shows to Watch Now

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Africa Magic Investing in Local Content

The excitement on Africa Magic just keeps getting better, serving us premium entertainment that has everyone talking. Whether you love deep, thought-provoking drama or you’re here for the glitz, glam, and unexpected drama of reality TV, these shows should be your next obsession on TV.

Covenant

The title alone says it all. Covenant is a story of power, betrayal and redemption. It is the kind of show that makes you sit up and pay attention. It follows the lives of ambitious individuals navigating a world where loyalty is rare, and power is everything. Packed with intense drama, shocking betrayals, and unexpected twists, this is the show for anyone who loves a well-crafted narrative filled with high stakes and consequences.

Some shows entertain, others pull you in so deeply that you feel every twist and turn within you. Covenant is the latter. From the very first episode, it sets a tone that is impossible to ignore. The suspense? Unbearable. The storytelling? Sharp and unpredictable. The secrets? More than you could ever imagine.

Catch Covenant on Africa Magic Family, GOtv Channel 2, every Monday – Friday at 8:30 PM.

The Real Housewives of Lagos

Luxury, fashion, alliances, betrayals, and pure entertainment, The Real Housewives of Lagos is back, and it’s better than ever. More shade, more drama, and more jaw-dropping moments. The queens of Lagos are not here to play, and they’ve got surprises up their designer sleeves.

This season, friendships will be tested, old wounds reopened, and no one is safe from the heat. From glamorous parties hiding deep drama to casual comments sparking explosive arguments, The Real Housewives of Lagos delivers the kind of reality TV chaos that keeps you hooked. Get ready to pick sides, switch favourites, and enjoy the moments you never saw coming.

Catch new episodes of The Real Housewives of Lagos on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, every Sunday at 7:00 PM.

PTA

Who knew parent-teacher associations could be this dramatic? When school meetings feel more like battlefields and parents fight for control like it’s an election, you know things are about to get messy. PTA is a refreshing take on everyday school drama but with all the chaos and power struggles. It’s funny, intense, and full of moments that will have you laughing one minute and gasping the next. If you love a mix of humor and drama with relatable characters, PTA is the show you didn’t know you needed.

Catch PTA on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, every Thursday at 8:30PM.

Omera

If you love emotional storytelling with suspense, Omera is the show for you. With a gripping storyline and powerful performances, it takes you on a journey of love, loss, and resilience. This isn’t just another drama, it’s a test of the human spirit. The stakes are personal and the moments unforgettable.

Catch Omera on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, every Monday- Friday at 8:00PM.

Dust

Dust is the kind of mystery drama that keeps you hooked from the start. Dark secrets, unexpected twists, and a past that refuses to stay buried. It will take you through a journey of lies, hidden truths, and shocking discoveries. If you love crime thrillers with unpredictable turns, this one is a good watch. Catch Dust on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, every Monday- Friday at 9:00AM.

Subscribe now to unlock a world of exciting and entertaining programs. To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, simply download the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. For on-the-go viewing, don’t forget to download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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How to Invest in Art Like a Pro

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Aspire Art Auctions

By Marelize van Zyl

Art has become an increasingly attractive alternative investment, offering the opportunity to diversify one’s portfolio, while having the potential for significant returns. One of its biggest advantages is that, at the very least, it tends to hold its value, and, over time, it can appreciate, all while offering buyers the pleasure of enjoying their acquisitions.

The global art market was valued at $552 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $585.98 billion in 2025 and $944.59 billion by 2033. This growth is primarily driven by increased artwork sales, particularly among high-net-worth individuals seeking to include art in their investment portfolios alongside traditional assets like stocks, bonds, and real estate. However, investing in art is not exclusive to the wealthy – aspiring collectors can enter the market by acquiring more affordable pieces from emerging and up-and-coming artists.

If you’re looking to start your journey into art collecting and investment, here are some valuable tips:

  1. Understand the factors that influence value

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to understand what contributes to the value of art:

Several factors influence price appreciation, including:

  • The artist’s status and biography – Well-established artists with a strong reputation have higher demand, and promising emerging artists showing potential and growth in their careers allow for significant returns on early investment in their works.
  • Provenance – An artwork’s commercial and ownership history as well as its exhibition and literature records can significantly impact its value.
  • Artistic significance – Works that play an important role in an artist’s career or the broader art movement in terms of subject matter, medium or styles tend to appreciate more.
  • Market trends – Staying informed about which artists and styles are gaining traction can help make informed investment decisions.
  1. Seek expert advice

Navigating the art market requires knowledge and experience. Consulting specialists who understand market trends and artist trajectories can differentiate a purchase that holds its value from one that significantly appreciates. A well-advised acquisition can result in exponential returns.

For example, in 2012, I sold a still life titled I Love You All the Time by Georgina Gratrix for R45,000. By 2018, her career had flourished, leading to the artwork selling at an Aspire Art auction for R591,000, providing an astounding 1,211% return on investment. Similarly, a Lisa Brice artwork purchased in 2018 for R39,000 sold for R1.2 million in 2023, showcasing the immense appreciation potential in the contemporary art market. 

  1. Explore emerging artists

While investing in blue-chip artists like Irma Stern, whose paintings average R5 million, is a secure way to preserve capital, identifying promising emerging artists can be an exciting and lucrative endeavour. Cinga Samson, for example, started painting in a shared artist studio in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. By 2021, after securing a solo show in New York and being signed by leading galleries, his works began reaching £321,300 at auction. An early piece, originally bought in 2010 for R1,700, later sold for R240,000 in 2023. This demonstrates how strategic investments in emerging talent can yield substantial rewards. 

  1. Consider online auctions and payment flexibility

For new collectors, online art auctions are an effective way to enter the market, offering exposure to a variety of artworks and pricing insights. Aspire Art recently introduced a “buy now, pay later” model, allowing buyers to pay off artworks interest-free over three months, making art collecting more accessible. 

  1. Exercise patience and build a long-term strategy

Investing in art is a long-term commitment. While some works appreciate rapidly, others take years or even decades. Art collecting is a passion-driven pursuit that can become a lucrative investment when approached strategically. 

  1. Take advantage of the current buyer’s market

Right now, market conditions favour buyers, making it an opportune time to start investing in art. With careful selection and strategic acquisitions, investors can lay a strong foundation for future appreciation as market dynamics evolve.

Marelize van Zyl is the CEO of Aspire Art

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Legends, Music & TV Icons – Unmissable Stories to Stream on Showmax

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Alex Edelman Just For Us

Some stories make us laugh, some inspire us, and some remind us why we fell in love with music, TV and comedy in the first place. This time, Showmax is bringing a mix of all three, packed with some of entertainment’s biggest names and even bigger stories. Whether you’re in the mood for a powerful music documentary, a hilarious comedy special, or a nostalgic deep dive into television history, there’s always something new to discover.

Here are five unmissable stories to add to your list.

Alex Edelman: Just For Us | Streaming from Wednesday, 19 February

Best for when you need a laugh

Ever found yourself in an unexpected situation that made you question everything? That’s exactly what happened to Alex Edelman, and the result is one of the funniest comedy specials of the year.

Just For Us is based on Edelman’s Broadway show, where he tells the story of infiltrating a white nationalist meeting after being targeted with anti-Semitic threats online. What unfolds is a sharp, witty, and sometimes shocking journey into the world of extremism, identity, and human connection.

With an Emmy for Outstanding Writing and praise from The Washington Post, this is the kind of stand-up special that makes you laugh while making you think.

Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple | Streaming from Wednesday, 26 February

Best for fans of Bruce Springsteen and The Sopranos

Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple explores the fascinating life of a man who has lived multiple careers,from rockstar to activist to actor. With appearances from legends like Paul McCartney, Bono, and Eddie Vedder, this Grammy-nominated documentary paints an inspiring portrait of a musician who used his fame for good, most notably in the fight against apartheid.

With a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this is a must-watch for music lovers and history buffs alike.

Being Mary Tyler Moore | Streaming from Wednesday, 26 February

Best for when you’re feeling nostalgic

If you grew up watching The Mary Tyler Moore Show, then you already know the impact she had on television. But Being Mary Tyler Moore goes beyond her on-screen legacy, offering an intimate look at the life of a woman who redefined what it meant to be a leading lady.

Through stunning archival footage and interviews with icons like Betty White and Julie Andrews, this Emmy-nominated documentary celebrates Moore’s influence on feminism, television, and culture. It’s a powerful, emotional watch that reminds us just how much things have changed and how far we still have to go.

Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy | Stream now

Best for true-crime and hip hop fans

Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy takes an unfiltered look at the man behind the music. This revealing documentary features exclusive interviews, never-before-seen footage, and a deep dive into the highs and lows of his career—from his rise in the rap game to recent legal controversies. Whether you admire his genius or question his methods, this documentary will have you glued to the screen.

Combs’ trial is set for May 2025, making this the perfect time to watch and unpack his story.

Despicable Me 4 | Streaming from Thursday, 20 February 2025

Best for watching with kids over six

What’s better than more Minions? Even MORE Minions! Despicable Me 4 is back with more chaos, more laughs, and a new addition to the Gru family (Gru Jr.), who is determined to make his dad’s life a nightmare.

But it’s not all fun and games. When Gru faces off against a stylish new villain, Maxime Le Mal, and his femme fatale partner, Valentina, the family must go on the run. With a voice cast featuring Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, and Sofia Vergara, this blockbuster hit is guaranteed to be a fun ride for the whole family.

Start streaming now and don’t miss out on these must-watch titles! Don’t have a Showmax account, Head to www.showmax.com/ng to sign up for Showmax mobile for as low as N1,600.

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