The Nasarawa State Chapter of the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the exclusion of indigenous musicians from the state-sponsored North Central Peace Concert headlined by mega-star Innocent “2Baba” Idibia.
In a press release issued today, PMAN-led by Ewuga Oliver Slodgz lamented that none of the state’s local entertainers were invited, consulted, or given a platform during the musical event.
While acknowledging the concert’s mission to promote peace and unity in the region, the association called the omission “unacceptable,” noting the message such exclusion sends to Nasarawa creatives.
PMAN posed pointed questions regarding fairness and state patronage:
“How can we celebrate outsiders while ignoring our own? Why must state resources enrich external entertainers, while home-based talents are ghosted even after seeking recognition?”
The association argued that legendary acts like 2Baba, who reportedly values Nasarawa’s heritage, should intentionally involve local artists.
It also challenged the state government to treat local creative talents with the same recognition afforded during political campaigns, asserting that if these creatives are good enough to mobilize voters, they are good enough for state entertainment initiatives.
PMAN has called on the Ministry of Sports, Youth, and Development to review its approach and empower local talents, adding that,
“our creatives are not asking for favors – they are demanding fairness.”
