Controversial Nigerian street-pop artist, Portable, has accused the organizers of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) of deliberately sidelining actor and producer Ibrahim Chatta following the 11th edition of the awards.
Reacting to the results of the event, Portable claimed that Chatta, who was nominated for Best Lead Actor for his role in House of GAA, was unfairly denied the award due to industry biases.
The award ultimately went to Femi Adebayo for his performance in Seven Doors, while Chioma Chukwuka won Best Lead Actress.
In a video shared on his Instagram account, Portable said:
“My fans, there’s a conspiracy in the Nigerian entertainment industry, even in Nollywood.
They didn’t give Ibrahim Chatta an award at the 11th AMVCA, despite his outstanding acting.
This is the same way I was snubbed at The Headies.”
Portable criticized the Nigerian award system, suggesting that awards are often given to those with influence or financial backing, rather than merit.
“We don’t need awards. We need food, we need money. We have money, but we can’t buy awards like some people.”
He ended by sending a message of support to Ibrahim Chatta:
“Ibrahim Chatta, if they don’t award you, God will reward you. My boss, you are my mentor. I love you.”
It’s worth noting that Chatta had previously accused the industry of bias. In 2023, he claimed his lack of AMVCA nominations was due to a conspiracy, sparking similar discussions.