By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
Nigerian singer Portable has stirred fresh controversy following the 11th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
The controversial singer alleged a deliberate gang-up against veteran actor and producer Ibrahim Chatta.
Chatta, who was nominated for Best Lead Actor for his role in House of GAA, failed to clinch the award, which instead went to Femi Adebayo for Seven Doors.
Chioma Chukwuka also emerged victorious in the Best Lead Actress category. Reacting to the outcome, Portable expressed strong dissatisfaction and accused the organisers of bias.
In a passionate Instagram video, Portable stated:
“My fans, there is a gang up in the Nigerian entertainment industry, even in Nollywood. They didn’t give Ibrahim Chatta an award at the 11th AMVCA despite his impeccable acting. That was how I was also snubbed by The Headies Awards.”
He went on to criticise the award system in Nigeria, accusing it of favouring celebrities with wealth and influence rather than genuine talent and hard work.
“We don’t need awards. We need food, we need money. We have money but we can’t use money to buy awards like some persons. Ibrahim Chatta, if they don’t award you, God will reward you. My boss, you are my mentor. I love you.”
This isn’t the first time allegations of bias have trailed Ibrahim Chatta’s relationship with the AMVCAs. In 2023, the actor also raised concerns about being overlooked, attributing it to an alleged conspiracy within the film industry — a claim that sparked widespread discussion at the time.
Portable’s comments have added fuel to the debate surrounding fairness and transparency in Nigeria’s entertainment award systems, drawing attention once again to the issue of recognition based on merit versus popularity or politics.
