The Nigerian entertainment scene was rocked by a whirlwind of controversy and change as The Honest Bunch Podcast announced broadcaster Ifedayo “Daddy Freeze” Olarinde as the new host, replacing Chinedu “Nedu Wazobia” Emmanuel, who stepped down four months ago following a heated public dispute.
The transition, revealed on Sunday via the podcast’s official Instagram page, marks a new chapter for the popular show known for its candid discussions and unfiltered takes.
The announcement came with a vibrant promotional poster and a caption that read, “The Honest Bunch podcast just got more unfiltered. Get ready for hotter takes, deeper convos, and unapologetic honesty. Say hello to our latest addition, Daddy Freeze.”
The 49-year-old media personality confirmed the news on his own Instagram, sharing the same poster and declaring, “A new era has begun.”
Nedu’s exit from the podcast in early 2025 followed a public feud sparked by allegations made on the show by reality TV star Aderombi “Deeone” Martin. During an episode, Deeone claimed that controversial activist Martins “VeryDarkMan” Otse (VDM) was attracted to men, igniting a firestorm of reactions online.
While VDM did not directly address the accusation, he retaliated by leaking private conversations involving Nedu and making counterclaims about the radio host’s alleged romantic involvements. The escalating personal attacks and public scrutiny led to Nedu’s decision to step away from the podcast he helped create.
Speculation swirled that Nedu had been sacked by the podcast’s organizers, but the 42-year-old radio veteran set the record straight during a press conference. “Let me clarify, I was not fired from Honest Bunch.
I was never fired,” Nedu stated firmly. “I chose to step away when the attacks became very personal so that the show could continue and succeed without me.” He emphasized his role in developing the podcast’s concept and explained his on-air persona: “My job is to ask hard questions and make statements that make people think, even if they wouldn’t say them themselves. Sometimes, that role as an advocate stirs controversy, but it’s part of the job.”
The controversy highlighted the intense dynamics of The Honest Bunch Podcast, which has built a loyal following for its bold discussions on topics ranging from pop culture to societal issues.
Nedu’s departure raised questions about the show’s future, but the introduction of Daddy Freeze, a seasoned broadcaster known for his outspoken views and polarizing online presence, signals an intent to maintain the podcast’s provocative edge.
Daddy Freeze, whose real name is Ifedayo Olarinde, brings a wealth of experience to the role. A prominent figure in Nigerian media, he has hosted radio shows and gained a massive online following through his commentary on social, religious, and cultural issues.
His addition to the podcast is expected to amplify its reputation for unfiltered conversations, though it remains to be seen how his style will shape the show’s direction.
Fans and critics alike are buzzing with anticipation, with social media platforms like X abuzz with reactions to the news. Some praised Daddy Freeze’s bold persona as a perfect fit, while others expressed nostalgia for Nedu’s tenure and skepticism about the podcast’s future.
One user posted, “Daddy Freeze on Honest Bunch? This is about to get wilder than ever!” While another lamented, “Nedu was the soul of the show. Big shoes to fill.”
As The Honest Bunch Podcast embarks on this new era, the spotlight remains on how Daddy Freeze will navigate the show’s legacy of sparking debate while managing the fallout from its recent controversies. For now, listeners are gearing up for what promises to be a bold, unapologetic continuation of the podcast’s signature style.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Daddy Freeze has replaced Nedu Wazobia as host of The Honest Bunch Podcast, marking a new era for the show after Nedu’s voluntary exit amid a public feud with VeryDarkMan.