The year 2025 has been a rollercoaster for Nigeria's entertainment industry, marked by a series of high-profile scandals that kept fans and critics talking. From police cases and public clashes to shocking marital breakdowns and online wars, the nation's celebrities were at the centre of non-stop drama.
Marriages, Feuds, and Legal Battles
The personal lives of many stars became public spectacle. Legendary singer Innocent "2Baba" Idibia sent shockwaves across the nation when he announced the end of his 13-year marriage to actress Annie Idibia. He cited her alleged substance abuse as a key reason, stunning a public that saw their union as a model. The saga deepened when 2Baba was later seen with Edo state politician Natasha Osawuru, whom he married in a private ceremony. Their relationship itself became controversial after viral videos showed heated altercations, leading to police involvement and claims of domestic violence from 2Baba's manager.
Afrobeat superstar Davido also faced marital turbulence shortly after his wedding to Chioma. A Snapchat user named Milkshake accused him of having a secret affair and financially supporting another woman, sparking widespread discussion about infidelity just weeks into his marriage.
Clashes with Authority and Among Peers
Controversial singer Habeeb Olalomi Badmus, popularly known as Portable, had a major run-in with the law. The Ogun State government declared him wanted after he was accused of assaulting officers from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. Portable eventually turned himself in, was charged, and had to cancel his tour, even releasing songs appealing to the president for help.
Public feuds between celebrities were rampant. Nollywood actresses Eniola Badmus and Laide Bakare had a physical confrontation at a movie premiere, later continuing their war online with accusations of betrayal and career sabotage. Bakare faced further backlash for admitting she introduced her 17-year-old daughter to alcohol and nightlife.
The music scene was particularly fiery. Speed Darlington engaged in a prolonged feud with Burna Boy, mocking him over the "baby oil" scandal linked to American rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs. The insults escalated to the point where Speed Darlington faced legal action and arrest. Burna Boy was also entangled in drama with Sophia Egbueje, who claimed he promised her a Lamborghini and failed to deliver.
Family Drama and Tragic Accidents
Some of the year's most heart-wrenching controversies involved family. Singer Asake was publicly accused by his ailing father, Fatai Odunsi, of abandonment during a battle with illness and paralysis. The allegation sparked massive criticism, forcing Asake and other family members to respond and defend his actions.
In a tragic turn, reality star Phyna (Josephina Otabor) accused the Dangote Group of negligence after her sister was involved in a fatal accident with one of their trucks. Phyna fought a public battle for compensation, claiming the company tried to cover up the incident, which ultimately led to her sister's death.
Gospel Clashes and Online Wars
The gospel industry was not spared. A major royalty dispute erupted between singer Mercy Chinwo and her former manager, EeZee T (Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu). Mercy Chinwo alleged she was defrauded of N540 million, leading to a case with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before EeZee T issued a public apology.
Pastor Femi Lazarus also clashed with singer Timi Dakolo over the commercialization of gospel music, sparking a heated public debate about ethics and talent in the ministry.
Social media influencer and Ratel president Martins Vincent Otse (VDM) was at the centre of multiple conflicts. He feuded with Ross Boss over financial dealings and had a physical fight with comedian Mr Jollof on an airplane, resulting in their removal from the flight.
One of the most sensational allegations came from actress Doris Ogala, who claimed she had a past romantic relationship with popular pastor Chris Okafor. She stated he left her for another woman, leading to legal action against her before she received help from activists to secure her freedom.
As the year ends, these controversies highlight the intense scrutiny facing Nigeria's celebrities, where personal struggles, professional rivalries, and legal issues play out on the very public stages of social media and news headlines.
