Nigerian media persona Adedotun Kayode, popularly referred to as Do2dtun, and The Headies founder Ayo Animashaun have exchanged accusations on social media over the track awards’ resolution to carry its subsequent rite in Canada.
The war of words centres on whether or not Nigerian track awards must stay within the nation to serve the native leisure business, with Do2dtun wondering The Headies’ transfer out of the country and Animashaun alleging that the broadcaster’s complaint stems from a failed request for assist securing a United States visa.
The trade started when Do2dtun wondered why the Grammy Awards had by no means been taken outdoor the USA, the usage of the world rite to problem the verdict to host The Headies out of the country.
He argued that native awards must construct their credibility across the business they constitute, pointing to the Africa Magic Audience’ Selection Awards (AMVCA) for instance of a homegrown rite.
“AMVCA is an instance. Why hasn’t it misplaced its credibility? That is for why. It’s homegrown; it products and services the aim for what it’s for; it’s constructed round an establishment no longer an individual and its constant in its supply,” he wrote.
Do2dtun added that award ceremonies must function independently of the private personal tastes in their organisers, arguing that their credibility is necessary to attracting manufacturers and maintaining business fortify.
In reaction, Animashaun challenged the broadcaster to organise another awards rite somewhat than criticise The Headies.
He additionally wondered Do2dtun’s motives, alleging that the broadcaster had in the past contacted him privately for help with securing a United States visa to wait an match out of the country.
“U criticise D Headies 4 goin out of the country, but slide into my DM asking me 2 assist U attend Bcuz U desire a visa. when I will be able to’t assist, U bcom much more sour & criticize. So, is it truly about Headies, or UR private pursuits? Hypocrisy at its greatest!. Awards U didn’t attend in Naij,” Animashaun wrote.
Do2dtun rejected the allegation, insisting that his complaint used to be concerning the track business somewhat than a non-public criticism or an try to download a visa.
He stated he had travelled to the USA earlier than and that his daughters had been born there. He additionally challenged Animashaun to spot the one who allegedly approached him for help.
The broadcaster maintained that his considerations had been concerning the position of The Headies within the Nigerian leisure business and accused the awards founder of constructing the war of words private.
He additional argued that complaint of the rite must no longer be interpreted as hostility in opposition to its founder, insisting that the awards must be judged through their contribution to the tradition somewhat than the individual establishing them.
The dispute comes as The Headies prepares for its 18th version, which organisers have postponed from October 23, 2026, to April 10 and 11, 2027, in Toronto, Canada.
In a commentary revealed on its professional Instagram web page, the organisers stated the revised time table would let them increase actions in Nigeria and Canada forward of the principle rite.
The awards returned to Nigeria in 2024 after two consecutive editions in the USA. The fifteenth and sixteenth editions had been held on the Cobb Power Appearing Arts Middle in Atlanta, Georgia.
Established in 2006, The Headies recognises achievements within the Nigerian track business and has turn out to be probably the most continent’s outstanding track award ceremonies.
Ademide Adebayo
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