Renowned talent manager and music executive, Obi Asika, has lauded controversial Nigerian singer Eedris Abdulkareem for his pivotal role in challenging the treatment of local artists during American rapper 50 Cent’s concert in Nigeria back in 2004.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Hip TV program “Trending,” Asika recounted the events surrounding the concert and highlighted Abdulkareem’s bold stance against the perceived disrespect and marginalization of Nigerian artists by local brands.
Asika shed light on the prevailing attitude towards Nigerian talents at the time, noting a pervasive lack of respect and acknowledgment from Nigerian brands, which often relegated local artists to secondary roles and denied them the recognition they deserved.
“Eedris was one of the first set,” Asika emphasized, acknowledging Abdulkareem’s status as one of Nigeria’s foremost artists at the time. He recounted how Abdulkareem insisted on being treated with the same level of respect and rights as international headliner 50 Cent, sparking a confrontation that ultimately led to repercussions for the Nigerian artist.
Detailing the incident, Asika revealed that Abdulkareem’s bold actions, including attempting to engage in discussions with 50 Cent and asserting his rights, resulted in backlash and negative portrayals that impacted his career trajectory significantly.