The competition is indeed getting to the peak, as we witness the final elimination show. This means we would not be saying goodbye to any contestants as we are left with the final 8 contestants. One of the contestants got very close to the semi-final round but he did not get there. Who and how? Just read along.

That dreadful moment when the names of the contestants with the least number of viewers’ votes would be revealed came, and there was no escaping it. It had to be done.

Daniella, Shola, Christian, and Geoffrey (who made his first appearance on the probation list) were announced as the ones who would have to fight their way back into the Academy.

Without further ado, they each stepped on stage to perform in a bit to escape elimination. Christian was up first, singing TuBaba’s Africa Queen. It was obvious the young man was not about to give up without a fight. He perfectly combined his charms and skills in this performance.

Geoffrey’s second shot at TuBaba’s ‘Only Me’ was so astoundingly perfect that it left the Judges at a loss for word. Daniella was up next, she also gave her best as she again performed ‘True Love’ by TuBaba. A performance the Faculty described as ‘passionate and believable’.

Lastly, Shola also impressed everyone with his performance of ‘For Instance’ by TuBaba. He even jumped into the audience, blowing everybody away as he delivered an energetic rendition.

Just before the fate of these 4 fighters were determined by the Judges, Faculty, and the contestants not on probation; Monica Ogah, Season 4 winner got us all dancing with her performance. Our conviction that she deserved the crown in 2011 was further reinforced; her performance was nothing short of fantastic.

After Monica’s performance came the moment of truth. Amidst huge tension, the Judges saved Christian from elimination, Geoffrey got his second chance from the Faculty while the contestants not on probation saved Daniella again, this time chosen over Shola.

So it was goodbye to Shola aka Sholly Fresh, but the bundle of talent gave us one last stellar performance. He performed D’Banj’s ‘Fall In Love’, and this ended the final elimination show.

The following evening kicked off with thanksgiving song where the remaining eight finalists joyfully performed “IGWE” by the gospel group- Midnight Crew. They indeed had a lot to be thankful for, having journeyed thus far in the competition, coming from thousands to hundreds to tens and finally to eight.

The Ace entertainment guru, and owner of Kennis Music International; Kenny ‘Keke’ Ogungbe was in attendance as a guest Judge as the contestants thrilled us all with hit songs from some West Africa’s finest entertainers.

Debbie was up first, and she softly sang “Toh Bad” by Niyola endearing the audience with her moves. Daniella who made it into the Academy via the Wild card and still standing had a lot to be thankful for as she joyfully performed “Jolly” by Chidinma. (Season 3 Winner).

Emeka who has built a strong fan base from the audience performed “Beautiful Onyinye” by the duo- P-square ft Rick Ross and again got the audience cheering him.‎ Afterwards, Ruky stepped on stage with her energetic choreography and rendition of “Johnny” by Yemi Alade.

Geoffrey– the preacher man as fondly called by fans didn’t miss out on the fun and excitement as he took the night’s performances up a notch with the popular demand song- “Double Wahala” by Oritshefemi.

In every cloud, there is a silver lining. Despite having to battle his knee injury, Clement has consistently engaged the audience and tonight wasn’t an exception as he blew everyone with his Azonto moves. His performance can be perfectly described in two words- engaging and suspense-filled. His voice seems to get stronger every weekend as he gave an almost unbelievably beautiful performance of “Antenna” by Fuse ODG.

Ugo, clad in ‘royal’ attire did not do badly with his rendition of “Igwe” by D’banj, the Igbo flavour in the song brought a beautiful colour to his performance.

Christian who has consistently entertained everyone over the past weeks took center stage again with “Kiss your hands” by R2bees ft Wande Coal and got the Judges, Faculty, audience on their feet.

The show ended on a beautiful note as the Judges declared Clement, Geoffrey, Ruky, Christian and of course Emeka the best entertainers of the night.