NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

It’s another edition of NRTC WEEKLY Roundup — in this week’s edition, we are focusing on five trending stories across the country.

As usual, the stories will cut across the top five beats in our media organization, NRTC [your one-stop hub for rich and reliable content covering entertainment, sports, politics, business, and more].

As we all know, a day can’t pass without trending stories and we have tracked many of them for you this week. Why not scroll down and treat yourself?

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

Sport: Pep Guardiola Manchester City take revenge over Real Madrid, politics: Senate presidency zoning, Akeredolu, other politicians clashes, entertainment: Chef Hilda Baci breaks Guinness World Record, metro: Murphy Afolabi and other celebrities death, others/leading stories: Seun Kuti remains in Police custody over assault of officer are the stories NRTC WEEKLY will be covering this week.

Entertainment: Chef Hilda Baci breaks Guinness World Record

This week, anticipation and excitement were palpable across Nigeria as renowned chef and restaurateur, Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci broke the Guinness World Record for the ‘longest cooking hours’ by an individual.

Hilda set a new record at 8:00 P.M. on Monday, May 15, 2023, after cooking for 100 hours, smashing the 87 hours 45 minutes record set by Guinness World Record holder, Lata Tandon from India. 

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that Hilda launched into the competition on Thursday at exactly 4:00 PM when she put on her cooker and continued through to Monday, May 14 as she whipped up 55 recipes and more than 100 meals in a whopping 100-hour stint.

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week 

During the journey, Nigerians known for their vibrant culture and passion for achievement, rallied behind Chef Hilda Baci and were seen gearing her up as they were eager to witness her extraordinary culinary feat. 

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that when news broke that Hilda was aiming to break a Guinness World Record for the ‘longest cooking marathon’, the entire nation was buzzing with excitement. Social media platforms, local news outlets, and various communities were abuzz with discussions about her upcoming record-breaking attempt — the anticipation grew as more details emerged about the feat she was attempting to achieve.

The 27-year-old made a name for herself in the Nigerian culinary scene with her exceptional skills, innovative recipes, and captivating culinary presentations. Her dedication to her craft and relentless pursuit of excellence had won her accolades and a legion of fans across the country.

As her cooking clocked three [3] days, Nigerians from all walks of life expressed their support and enthusiasm and there was a sense of national pride, as Hilda’s journey represented the collective dreams and aspirations of a nation.

NRTC WEEKLY confirmed that people eagerly followed her progress, sharing words of encouragement and rallying behind her while some displayed what Nigerians are known for ‘love of food and celebrations’.

NRTC WEEKLY findings revealed that on the day of the record-breaking attempt, Nigerians glued themselves to their television screens and online platforms, excitement was infectious, and the hashtag began trending on social media. 

Families gathered around their TVs, friends organized watch parties, and even strangers joined together in anticipation of witnessing a historic moment of Hilda’s determination and skill as she meticulously executed her culinary masterpiece. 

The nation held its breath as the record-breaking attempt unfolded, sending waves of anticipation and jubilation across the country. Nigerians erupted in joyous celebrations as their cheers filled the air, and the sound of drums and music echoed through the streets. From bustling cities to remote villages, the nation came together to celebrate this momentous achievement.

Nigerians saw Hilda’s feat as a testament to their potential for greatness — ignited a sense of inspiration and pride, encouraging people to dream big and strive for excellence in their endeavors.

The Akwa Ibom native and owner of ‘My Food by Hilda’ became an overnight national hero, as politicians hailed her remarkable achievement and the positive impact she had on the nation’s spirit. They said her accomplishment not only put Nigeria on the global culinary map but also served as a reminder of the immense talent and potential that lies within the Nigerian people.

Since she had broken the record, her name had continued to dominate conversations, and had been invited to numerous talk shows, interviewed by the media, and received recognition from government officials and prominent figures in the culinary world. 

“Her achievement inspired us, especially the new generation of aspiring chefs — she reminds us that nothing Nigerians can not do. Her achievement should serve as a lesson to political leaders in the country to strive and give the citizens a better life.

“Nigerians have always been the ones breaking existing records. We need good leaders to drive us to our destinations,” Nigerians said. 

As of press time, Hilda, who surpassed the record set in 2019 by an Indian chef, has not been issued an official certificate to validate her newly set record by Guinness World Records.

However, fans of the 27-year-old chef who won the maiden edition of the Jollof Face-off Competition and pocketed a grand prize of $5,000 have blasted a Liberian chef, Wonyean Aloycious Gaye, who announced his mission to break Hilda Baci’s cooking record. 

The announcement was shared by the Liberian Music Industry on Facebook.

Metro: Murphy Afolabi and other celebrities’ death

Death, an inevitable part of life, has again touched the Nollywood industry, leaving behind a profound sense of grief and loss. This week six talented actors and one actress tragically passed away, leaving a void in the hearts of their colleagues and fans.

NRTC WEEKLY gathered the news of the passing of the following celebrities, actor Chikezie Uwazie, Mukaila Adedigba, Obinna Nwafor, Murphy Afolabi, actress Wunmi Olowokandi, and Nollywood sound engineer known simply as Techno Sound made Nigerians mourn.

The news of each celebrity’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the industry, with fans and fellow artists expressing their sorrow and paying tribute to the departed souls. These deaths serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of fate.

NRTC WEEKLY reports that while the deaths of celebrities in the Nollywood industry are undoubtedly tragic, they also serve as a reminder to cherish life, appreciate the talents and contributions of those around us, and make the most of the time we have. 

Tears flowed freely on Sunday, as Murphy Afolabi, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s Nollywood industry, known for his remarkable talent and contributions to the world of cinema gave up the ghost.

Fans and colleagues stated that the works and legacies of the Osogbo-born will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

Murphy fans and colleagues bid an unexpected farewell as he was laid to rest at his residence in Ikorodu, Lagos State. He was reported to have died after slipping in the bathroom. 

Taken to their social media handles, Netizens beseeched people to always support one another in times of grief as this would heal and enable them to move forward.

They stated that what human beings do today would always carry their memories of when they departed.

“Their loss serves as a poignant reminder for all of us to appreciate the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.

“Their legacies will serve as an inspiration for future generations of actors and filmmakers, reminding them of the transformative power of storytelling and the profound effect it can have on society.

“The question is what will people remember us for when we left this sinful world?” Netizens stated. 

Sport: Pep Guardiola Manchester City takes revenge over Real Madrid

In a thrilling and highly anticipated UEFA Champions League encounter, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City team exacted sweet revenge over Real Madrid with a resounding 4-0 victory. 

NRTC WEEKLY findings show that the clash between these European football giants captured the attention of football fans worldwide and marked a significant moment in both clubs’ histories.

The stage was set for an intense battle as Manchester City sought redemption after their previous season’s elimination at the hands of Real Madrid. In 2022, Real Madrid was trailing 5-3 on aggregate heading into the 90th minute at the Bernabeu after Riyad Mahrez had given City the lead in 73 minutes but pulled an astonishing late comeback against Manchester City to set up a Champions League final against Liverpool.

Two goals in two minutes from substitute Rodrygo and Karim Benzema’s extra-time penalty gave them [Madrid]  an incredible 6-5 aggregate win over City.

The 13-time winners sent three Premier League clubs away from the Champions League last season after defeating Liverpool FC 1 nil on May 28 at the Stade de France in Paris, France.

ALSO READ: NRTC WEEKLY: Top 5 trending stories across the country this week

As their normal routine, the Spanish club eliminated two EPL clubs [Chelsea and Liverpool FC] from reaching the final — played 1-1 against City at home and failed to reach the final this year.

In the match played on Wednesday, City lined up and stats were exceptional for revenge, Benzema and the Brazilian football player, Vinicius Junior could not score to cover their embarrassment, NRTC WEEKLY confirmed.

Manchester City opened scores with Bernardo Silva’s brace, an own goal, and Julian Alvarez’s extra minutes at Etihad Stadium to blow the holders away.

Football fans who took to their social media handles after the match said the weight of expectations was palpable as they eagerly awaited the clash between these football powerhouses.

They added that their expectation was seeing Real Madrid advance to the final but were excited City prevented them from reaching three finals in a row.

“Immediately we saw the two clubs’ lineups, we knew Carlo Ancelotti would suffer for benching the German football player, Antonio Rüdiger,” the fans said.

Seun Kuti remains in Police custody over the assault of an officer

Afrobeat singer, Seun Kuti will remain in police custody for another four days to enable the police to conclude its investigation into an allegation of assault brought against him, Lagos State Chief Magistrates Court sitting in Yaba ruled.

The singer was seen in a viral video assaulting a Police which led to his arrest and detention. NRTC WEEKLY gathered that Seun apologized and gave the sum of ₦12,000 to the assaulted officer to repair his damaged vehicle.

Seun who’s currently cooling his head at a Police cell accused the assaulted officer of planning to kill him and his family. 

The police after searching his house said they found suspicious items. Lagos police spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin disclosed this via his Twitter handle.  

However, some Nigerians have berated the police over the matter, saying policemen also harassed citizens — nothing will be done.

“Many times we’ve reported police harassment on Nigerians, but the police boss would say they’ll investigate and in the end, nothing will happen.

“It is now their turn — they understand how painful it is to harass people.”

Zoning of Senate Presidency, Akeredolu, other politicians’ clashes

It’s no longer news that the National Working Committee, NWC, of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, had zoned the Senate Presidency of the forthcoming 10th National Assembly to the South-South and the Speakership of the House of Representatives to the North-West.

NWC also zoned the Deputy Senate Presidency to the North-West, and Deputy Speakership to the South-East.

Specifically, the party endorsed Senator Godswill Akpabio/Barau Jubrin for Senate president/deputy and Messrs Abass Tajudeen/Ben Kalu for House of Representatives leadership.

The zoning and endorsement were criticized by Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who said the zoning was an unworkable arrangement that reinforces “injustice and enhances inequity”.

Akeredolu in his condemnation of the zoning said it was a formula represented “early signs of steps aimed at attempts to cabin the hard-earned Presidency for our leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, by a few individuals with eyes on ‘Aso Rock Power Buttons.”

NRTC WEEKLY gathered that the governor’s comment had resulted in many attacks by some politicians. 

While some youths also joined Akeredolu in calling on President-elect Bola Tinubu and the party to jettison the zoning arrangement adopted for the yet-to-be-inaugurated 10th National Assembly — some politicians said it would stand.

Here, the cotton of this week’s episode of NRTC WEEKLY will drop. Join us for another edition next week as we take you around the trending stories in Nigeria.