After a week of tears, tension and drama, Big Brother Naija housemates were given a much-needed breather in a wholesome and enlightening live Sunday night show.

The aftershock of Big Brother’s decision to split up the duos had been felt in the house throughout the week, so it was only fair that the housemates had an interrogation and eviction-free night. 

Six weeks into the game, 16 housemates remain in the running for the ultimate grand prize of GH¢100,000.  

It had been the most eventful week in the house yet, kicking off with shock and tears. Even though this week’s wager was won, it initially did little to calm the tense atmosphere in the house. 

From fallouts and confrontations, to wandering eyes and strengthened relations, the housemates went through the most. Let’s not forget, it was also their chance to reintroduce themselves to Big Brother, viewers and each other outside of their duo dynamics. 

BBNaija season 9’s first solo Head of House was Onyeka, who also celebrated her birthday during the week. She and sister Chizoba had another tough week, but Onyeka said their relationship had always been spirited, refusing to blame it on strain from the BBNaija game.

When Ebuka asked Chizoba to clarify whether she wanted space or for other people to be around her when she was upset – since she had said different things to different people – she replied: “I like space… but be around.” This elicited laughter from housemates and confusion on Ebuka’s part, making for one of the most light-hearted moments of the night. 

Sooj and Topher hit some speed bumps in their friendship this week. Talking about ironing out their differences, Sooj said: “I just needed to understand better where Topher was coming from. We needed to clarify where the issue was on his part, or where he felt I was doing wrong. Generally, it was just miscommunication.” 

Ebuka noticed that twins Wanni and Handi seemed to be having the hardest time dealing with the unpairing. He reminded Handi that this was the time to set themselves apart as individuals. She agreed, but also admitted: “This week I have just been soaking it all in, so let’s see what it’s like next week if I’m still here.” 

It had also been a week of heated romance, with Ebuka saying that Wanni and Shaun “seem to break up every three market days”. 

When quizzed about their most recent break up and make up, Wanni said: “I’m a lover girl. I like the boy, I’m feeling the boy… I believe in genuine friendships and relationships. In life there’s no smooth sailing. The more I get to know him, the more I love him as a person.” When asked if Shaun was her boyfriend, she said: “In the house, yes.” 

The live show also delivered an entertaining treat for the studio audience, with two spirited live performances from BoyPee, Hyce and Brown Joel. 

Ebuka kept the house on tenterhooks until the very end, when all housemates stood up (they were all up for eviction), and he said ominously: “The next housemate to be evicted from the Big Brother Naija No Loose Guard house is… not leaving tonight. You’re all safe for another week.” 

Housemates erupted into relieved screams of joy – but evictions will resume next week. What will happen in the days leading up to that? There’s only one way to find out. 

Tune in to DStv Channel 198 and GOtv Channel 149. You can also join the conversation using the hashtag #BBNaijaS9 on social media. The live eviction shows are broadcast every Sunday at 6pm on Akwaaba Magic (DStv Channel 150 and GOtv Channel 102).