I MOVED TO GHANA TO GET CLOSER TO GOD AFTER MY DRUGS ORDEAL—HANKS ANUKU

Hardly would you see a movie released in Nigeria few years back without the stern-face of popular actor, Hanks Anuku adorning the jacket of the film. His face was like an Indian Talisman, who brings luck to movie producers in the country back then.

But that is no more the case as no one knows if the face of Hanks Anuku can still sell even a local community film this time around.

He was made the Special Adviser to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State on Tourism and Entertainment in 2010, but he later left the job.

After that, he was in the news for being delivered from alcohol and mental illness by Prophet TB Joshua, he later moved to Ghana after the incident.

Some days ago, Nigeriafilms.com met him in Ghana and he had a short interview with us, where he explained the reason behind his relocation to the West African country.

Why did you leave Nigeria for Ghana

Yea, as you can see, I am in Ghana now. It was a decision I made to get a few things for myself and to get closer to God because so many things happened to me in Nigeria that I was not happy about.

Does that mean you wouldn’t have been closer to God if you were in Nigeria

I would always have time for anybody and appreciate the presence of a man or woman of substance.

What do you do here presently

Apart from filmmaking, I am into the development of grassroots’ talents in music and filmmaking.

How is that going

It has been very great.

Are Ghanaians embracing you

You know, love thy neighbour like thyself is my tool across the Nile unto Jericho. I think everybody loves me. I don’t know who the enemy is. So, whoever the enemy is, I am sorry, I forgive all haters. That is what it is.

Should your fans in Nigeria be expecting something from you soon

Well, everything depends on God. He is my provider. If God wants me to go to Nigeria, no problem, I mean, as long as you are serious with the job.

GUBA AWARDS 2014 OPEN FOR NOMINATIONS

Nominations for the 2014 GUBA awards are out!

GUBA is an organisation dedicated to highlighting and acknowledging the talents and efforts of hardworking individuals of Ghanaian descent.

Each year, GUBA, awards prestigious and influential individuals and organisations within the British – Ghanaian Community.

The awards have been endorsed by the likes of London Mayor-Boris Johnson, MP Dianne Abbott, Ghana’s High Commission to the UK and Ireland and several notable public figures within the UK and in Ghana.

The 2013 version of the awards which took place on the 16th of November 2013 at the Park Plaza Hotel saw a host of talents walking away with the coveted GUBA award. The winners on the night included: Afrobeat star: Fuse ODG, Media Mogul and CEO of MOBO awards, Kanya King.

Also present were dignitaries such as Cherie Blair, CEO of UniBank Felix Nyarko-Pong, CEO of UT Bank Prince Amoabeng, Herman Chinery-Hesse, founder and CEO of SoftTribe Ghana, GUBA patron Hugh Quarshie and several high profile guests.

GUBA 2014 is set to be monumental as we celebrate our 5th year of running as an organisation. In celebratory fashion, the focus will be on recognition. Our black awards will take precedence on the night as we look back and acknowledge achievers within the Ghanaian community. Nominations will however be available for only 5 categories. These tried and tested categories will seek to find the purest of Ghanaian talent across the globe.

GUBA awards will not be possible without your support. Please nominate deserving and trailblazing individuals from the GUBA website using the link; http://www.gubaawards.co.uk/2014-nominations/
The Categories are:
GUBA Best Student Achiever Award
GUBA Humanitarian Award
Young & Talented Award
GUBA International Recognition Award
Efie Ne Fie Award
Nominations end on Sunday 15th of June 2014

The GUBA Awards is a non-profit awards ceremony celebrating the excellent achievements of Ghanaians living in Britain and acknowledging the valuable services of UK based organizations to Ghanaians in the UK or Ghana. GUBA Awards is in its fifth year and aims at extending the awards to the wider African community in the UK.

SHATTA WALE TO HEADLINE KWAHU EASTER PARAGLIDING FESTIVAL

Patrons of this year’s Kwahu Paragliding Festival will dance to many songs, but Shata Wale’s hit song, Dance Hall King has been given the recognition as the theme song for the annual festival.

Although its popularity may have waned a bit now following newer releases by the artiste, the Ghana Tourism Authority has endorsed the controversial musician’s song as the tune for the 9th Paragliding festival scheduled for April 18-22, 2014.

The choice follows a trend started in 2010 when the GTA chose Nana Boroo’s crowd pulling “Aha Ayɛdɛ” to celebrate the festival.

Speaking to Graphic Showbiz, Mr Ben Ohene Aryeh, the Public Relations Officer of the GTA said the Authority since 2010 went for a song that topped charts and dominated the music scene in order to attract the youth.

“The programme is driven by the youth, so it is important we give them the song that made waves across the country,” he explained.

In 2011, 5Five’s Mugye Baya gave patrons thrills at the festival. In 2012, it was the turn of Guru’s Lapaz Toyota to inject fun and excitement into the atmosphere.

Last year, Dr. Slim and Dobble’s Sɛkɛ gave the festival the flavour it needed.

Launching the festival, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, called on revelers to mark the season in the area with decency and respect to cultural values.

“Easter should not be a period of debauchery but one for reflection. It should be a time when we all resolve to work towards peace, unity and development,” she said.

The minister’s remarks follow public outcry against reports of promiscuity among some holiday makers during the festival.

Started in 2005, the paragliding festival has become the flagship programme of the Easter festivities in Kwahu and attracts thousands of people both local and foreign to the area.

Apart from the paragliding, the Easter celebrations in Kwahu is characterised by a plethora of entertainment, music and dancing, turning the area into a massive jamboree with crowds to rock it.

This year, 15 pilots from the United States, Peru, France, Belgium, Japan and Thailand will lead the sky maneuvering that many holiday makers look forward to during the festival.

‘DON’T COME NEAR ME IF YOU ARE NOT GOOD IN BED’ – NOLLYWOOD ACTRESS WARNS MEN

Crystal Okoye is in the news again and this time, she is telling any guy who wants to date her that he must be strong, good and capable in bed or they should not get anywhere near her.

The actress who once said she fully supports sex before marriage so that she can know if her man is capable, also said that she loves sex so much and would not even consider going out with a man who cannot perform to her satisfaction and that her man must be ready to ‘give’ to her anytime she wants it.

Hear her:
I am not one of those women who would tell you sex doesn’t matter; it matters a lot to me.

If a man cannot perform, I have no business with him. You have to be a complete man to be with me.

I love sex, and I am not going to pretend I don’t. I know most girls even fake orgasm just to please their partners but I am not that kind of girl.

So guys, who is ready to take her up?

“I WANT A TEACHER”- LIL WIN CONFESSES

Popular Akan actor Kwadwo Nkansah aka Lylwin has said in an interview with Abeiku Santana on Okay fm that he wants a teacher to help him better his English speaking abilities which he admits is on the low.

“I know my English is not good and I have been trying all this while to communicate in English but it does not work. When I travel abroad, I speak English but in Ghana I dare not. But currently, I am seriously looking forward to learn how to speak good English in what I am doing. I need a teacher to help me out in this regard because I feel this is the time” Kojo Nkansah added.

When asked which level he wants to start his English learning language from, he responded that he does not want to start from scratch because he cannot be in the same class with children who are mainly his fans.

“Though I want to start learning the English language seriously, I don't want to start with the children in the lower classes. I would want to start from institutions like University of Ghana- Legon, Kwame Nkrumah University of Technology (K.N.U.S.T) or University of Cape Coast (U.C.C). I want to start from these institutions because they are adults and with them I am sure I will be able to catch up fast with time” Kumawood darling boy Kojo Nkansah added.

Readers are to note that in a recent press conference held in Kumasi by Paul Gee films for Nollywood queen Patience Ozorkor, she noted that Kumawood is a good initiative therefore we should support it and do more productions with our local language. That statement was supported by Shirley Frimpong Manso CEO of Sparrow`s Production when a party was held for them at the La Palm Royal Hotel after winning the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards in Nigeria.

Fans of Kwadwo Nkansah who heard the award winning actor saying he wants a teacher to better his English are therefore asking that if these two movie giants have all endorsed our local movies, then why is Lylwin trying hard to learn English by hook or crook. “Personally, I don't think Lylwin needs a teacher to succeed in life. He is already successful even though he can`t speak English. Now that the Akan movies are flying, what is his problem getting a teacher. We love him despite the fact that he can`t speak English” a mechanic fan Thomas Ofori told Flex newspaper.

AMANDZEBA WARN KOJO ANTWI

The softpoken highlife musician, Amandzeba Nat Brew, has warned Kojo Antwi to refrain from making defamatory statements that seek to undermine the credibility of the board members of the Ghana Music Right Organisation (GHAMRO).

He also cautioned the media to cross check facts before publication and not allow themselves to be used by unscrupulous persons with selfish interests.

Kojo Antwi in an interview with Razz Newspaper last week alleged that some members of GHAMRO board have assigned to themselves special powers which permit them to do anything they want with the organisation.

He again alleged that those members were the only persons on the board who were signatories to all GHAMRO cheques instead of all the 14 members.

Kojo Antwi also disclosed that the three or four members have also opened different bank accounts without the knowledge of the other members of the board and the entire GHAMRO members.

Reacting to various defamatory statements made by Kojo Antwi, Amandzeba challenged Kojo Antwi to mention the names of those members who have opened the accounts he was claiming of.

He also challenged Kojo Antwi to produce evidence of wrongdoings against those board members.

Amandzeba described the allegations as a mere fabrications only to throw dust into the eyes of the stakeholders in the music industry, adding, “If you don’t have a proof why do make allegations you cannot support with evidence.”

He warned that music owners should also beware of some unreliable veteran stakeholders who are seeking to create division among musicians within the group.

On his part, the Chairman of GHAMRO, Carlos Sakyi said, “Those who making allegations they cannot prove with evidence lack a sense of direction.”

He expressed worry at the attempt being made by certain ungrateful individuals to destroy the united front that GHAMRO had always represented.

KOJO ANTWI TO BE DRAGGED TO COURT SOON

Iconic highlife musician, Kojo Antwi, could soon be dragged to court by the Ghana Music Right Organisation (GHAMRO) for defaming its hard-earned reputation.

The decision of the board led by Carlos Sakyi to drag Kojo Antwi to court is based on Kojo's recent statement he made in the Razz Newspaper that three or four members of GHAMRO, who were signatories to all GHAMRO cheques have secretly opened different bank accounts without the knowledge of the other members of the board and the entire GHAMRO members.

However, GHAMRO board had flatly denied the allegation and had threatened to drag Kojo Antwi to the law court to substantiate the allegation, adding that Kojo's allegation had greatly injured GHAMRO's reputation and brought into public scandal, hatred and ridicule.

"We are surprised at the false and baseless allegation which have been made by Kojo Antwi purely for political considerations," a member of the board told BEATWAVES.

In an interview, Carlos Sakyi gave his impression about the story in the Razz Newspaper, "there was absolutely no shroud of evidence or truth. It is a fabrication aimed at setting GHAMRO board up against the stakeholders."

He declared, "We have contacted our lawyers and serious action would be taken against Kojo Antwi for making such baseless allegations.

JOHN DUMELO BECOMES FIRST GHANAIAN TO HIT 1MILLION FANS ON FACEBOOK?

Ghanaian actor, John Dumelo has become the first Ghanaian to hit 1million ‘Likes’ on Facebook.

A humbled John Dumelo wrote on his Facebook page: “Just hit the million mark on Facebook. History just got made! Thanks a lot guys. Really appreciate it. Im humbled. #firstghanaiancitizen”.

John Dumelo’s Facebook page was created in 2008 and at the time of writing this post he had 1,000,547 likes.

With over half a million likes from Ghana, 300,000 from Nigeria and the rest of Africa, USA, Europe and the Caribbean.

In spite of his large following on Facebook, John has not been verified by the social media giants, making it possible for fans to follow other fake John Dumelo pages with the belief that they are following the actor himself.

Bisa Kdei was the first Ghanaian to have his Facebook page verified.

SLIM BUSTERR DROPS NEW SONG AMIDST SECRET WEDDING WAHALA

The dance machine Slim Busterr who was in the news about three weeks ago concerning his plans of getting married again has dropped a new song titled “Ampe” amidst his alleged pending secret wedding.

Latest revelation on his secret marriage according to a close source has it that the lady just left the country for United States to relief herself off pressure and attacks coming in after the media took on the marriage story.

It is alleged some unknown ladies in the country have promised to storm and destroy his marriage ceremony if he dare tries to marry the half Jamaican, half Ghanaian lady whose name has still not been fetched. Her identity was only given as a daughter to a Jamaican millionaire and a Ghanaian mother who lives in Kingston in Jamaica.

Speaking to the musician on Monday afternoon, he confirmed he released his new single today which is part of an upcoming album but refused to say anything on his secret wedding plans and the lady he wants to marry. “I believe this is my private life and don’t want to discuss it with the media anymore. I will get married again anytime soon but don’t want to discuss details of it in the media. I’m sorry” the forever young dancer said laughing.

His new song which was played on Kofi Kum Bilson’s show on Peace Fm, an Accra based radio station on Monday talks more about how evil spirits or witches in your home stops and prevent all the good things that are coming in one’s life and how savage and uncivilized these witches are or can be.

The releasing of the “Ampe” song and the lyrics involved has sparked debates in some offices and in the public as to why he (Slim Busterr) released such a song at time when he is having problem in getting married again? Could it be that the song is a message to the witches in his home who are trying to prevent him from getting married to a millionaire’s daughter?

Answers to these questions are yet to be answered by the musician later when he finally decides to make everything public. Keep reading as this reporter promise to bring you all the latest development on this story.

EMELIA BROBBEY CONFESSES; DEDICATES LIFE TO CHRIST

“All to Jesus I surrender, All to him I freely give; I will ever love and trust him, in his presence daily live” is the song presently on Emelia Brobbey’s lips.

The Kumasi based actress has publicly repented and declared that she has given her entire life to serving the Almighty God and spreading the good news.

Emelia who was very emphatic about her new way of life, made this revelation on Sunday March 30 at the Charismatic Evangelistic Ministries (CEM) at North Legon in Accra.

The beautiful actress and mother of two who is not a known member of the church was seen during the church’s first service, early Sunday morning. After the sermon of the day, an alter call was made by the officiating pastor for anybody in the congregation who wants to accept Christ as their Lord and personal saviour to step forward, and actress Emelia was one of the people who stood in front of the church to profess their repentance.

“I was involved in an accident recently in which 17 people died but by the grace of Almighty God I am still alive. I thank God for saving my life from today I have given my life to Christ”, emotional Emelia Brobbey said amidst praises and worship.

Spotted in a green and while lace dress, and almost in tears she narrated her narrow escape from death and how the omnipresent God rescued her. Emelia promised God that for giving her another chance to live she would from yesterday, commit her entire life and energy in worshiping God, winning souls for Christ, and spreading His good news to the world, and that she was putting all the worldly things behind her and live a righteous life. She however didn’t state if she was going to continue acting or she would quit the silver screen to serve God fulltime.

Rev. Emmanuel Ayim Danquah, a visiting man of God from USA, who happened to be the officiating Pastor, then prayed for Emelia with support from the congregation. The Pastor thanked God for Emelia’s repentance and committed her life to God, and asked for strength for her to be able to fulfill the promise she has made to God. Life has not been too smooth for Emelia over the past few months. Early last year, Emelia was accused of getting pregnant with her second baby for a doctor who was married. From June to December last year, Emelia had the famous shoplifting allegation hanging around her neck.

Emelia Brobbey was accused of shoplifting a bracelet at Piercings while on vacation in London. Even though she denied all the allegations, she had to deal with the scandals and media pressure for the rest of 2013 ending the year as one of the most scandalous showbiz personalities.

Emelia Brobbey was involved in a life threatening accident on Sunday March 9, 2014 at about 4:30pm at Apedwa Junction, on the Accra-Kumasi road. She was among many passengers on a board a VIP bus with registration number GT 4277-13, traveling from Kumasi to Accra, which collided with a Kia cargo truck loaded with charcoal.

She was injured on her right leg and her chin, and a minor injury on her forehead. She has fully recovered now and has decided to surrender all to Christ.

SAMINI HIT ON SHATTA WALE EXAGGERATED - BULL DOG

Bull Dog, manager of Dancehall sensation Shatta Wale, says media reports on the alleged Samini-ordered attack on his artiste in Canada were exaggerated.

He denied reports that fans of Samini launched an attack on Shatta Wale.

Last week, reports filtered through the Ghanaian media that some guys apparently sent by arch-rival and fellow Dancehall artist Samini, had entered the hotel room of the ‘Like My Thing’ singer to attack him, a situation which resulted in an altercation.

But Bull Dog told NEWS-ONE on Monday that the reports were concocted.

“What happened was Shatta Wale was in the company a few friends and some fans who wanted to be around him in our hotel room. We were like 15 people and there were drinks and everything and everyone was partying. Then a guy hinted that one of the guys who came to our hotel room didn’t want to see Shatta Wale because Samini was his friend and he had heard some very bad things about Shatta Wale.

The guy’s intention was to come to the hotel room and harass us, but after getting close to Wale they realized that he wasn’t the person Samini described to him [the unnamed guy sent to harass Shatta Wale],” Bull told the paper.

There was nothing like fighting or shoving because the guy in question confessed after he realized Shatta Wale was nothing compared to what he had heard from Samini, according to him.

“There wasn’t even a fight. After a few drinks, the people themselves started talking. If they hadn’t spoken, we wouldn’t have known. The danger in there was that if we were not careful someone could have poisoned the drinks or something,” he added.

The two Dancehall artistes have been bitter rivals in recent times with each recording caustic and dissing’ songs against each other.

Shatta Wale was in Canada for a series of performances to extend his popularity and showmanship to others outside Ghana.

People from all walks of life reportedly patronized the gig.

Presently, Shatta Wale is one of the Ghanaian entertainers who are promoting Dancehall music across the globe.

“I DISAGREE WITH ANYONE WHO THINKS I’M CURRENTLY SUFFERING”, EX DOE

“Anyone who says that I have made money before, but end up mismanaging it is not being fair to me. The fact is during our time, there was no much money in the music game. Some of the things we gained during our time was opportunity.

“I disagree with anyone who thinks I’m currently suffering. God being so good, I am able to take care of my family and myself through some additional work I do aside music.

“People don’t understand stardom. There is a difference between a flashy guy and a star. I am a street guy and the people who have known me for long know I’m not a flashy guy. People who don’t have the talent are the ones who want to look flashy and buy flashy cars.”