- Nigerian gospel singer Israel Terhemba Ikyereve, also known as New Jerusalem, has passed away at the age of 53.
- Former Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, paid tribute to the singer and expressed his condolences over his passing.
Renowned Nigerian gospel singer Israel Terhemba Ikyereve, widely known by his stage name New Jerusalem, has passed away at the age of 53.
New Jerusalem was celebrated for his unique contribution to gospel music in Tiv culture, skillfully transforming traditional tunes into spiritually uplifting Christian songs. His death has left a deep void in the gospel music community and among his fans.
Former Benue State Governor, Chief Samuel Ortom, paid tribute to the late artist, recalling the spiritual connection he felt through New Jerusalem’s music.
“His songs touched my heart as a lover of Christ,” Ortom said. “That attraction led me to seek a personal relationship with him, which began a lasting bond with his family.”
Ortom extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and pledged ongoing support to both them and the New Jerusalem Gospel Music Troupe, assuring them that his commitment would continue beyond the burial.
The late singer is survived by his wife, fellow gospel artist Deborah Msendoo Ikyereve, their four children, and other family members.
Israel “New Jerusalem” Ikyereve will be laid to rest on July 5, 2025, in Benue State.
In other news, Nigerian comedian Anita Asuoha, popularly known as Warri Pikin, has finally broken her silence on the widespread rumors surrounding her pregnancy.
The mother of four had initially revealed her baby bump during a Father’s Day celebration for her husband, posing with him and their children. The reveal quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions on social media. While fans congratulated her, some skeptics claimed she was faking the pregnancy by using a prosthetic bump. Critics even accused her of being insensitive to women praying for children.
In response, Warri Pikin posted a video of herself working out at the gym, confidently baring her stomach. The footage appeared to counter the allegations, showing a level of physical activity and movement that many agreed would be hard to pull off with a fake bump.
Adding a humorous twist, the comedian addressed the issue while performing at fellow comedian Ajebo’s event. In a light-hearted moment, she joked with the audience, asking if her husband looked like someone who couldn’t get a woman pregnant a comment that drew loud laughter from the crowd.
The controversy intensified when journalist Kemi Olunloyo weighed in. Reacting to Warri Pikin’s pregnancy announcement, Olunloyo claimed the comedian had previously suffered a miscarriage and alleged that the gym video was part of that period. She further insisted that Warri Pikin was using a fake baby bump, stirring more debate online.
Despite the rumors, Warri Pikin’s boldness and sense of humor have earned her praise from many fans who believe she’s handling the situation with grace and confidence.
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