Popular Nigerian comedian, Kobaba, has raised alarm over what he described as the persistent and unjustified hike in event hall rental fees, warning that the trend is crippling the creative industry.
In a statement on Tuesday, Kobaba accused event center operators of exploiting entertainers and show organizers by continuously raising prices under the pretext of increased diesel costs — a justification he says is no longer valid.
“Most of these venues already doubled their rates two years ago when diesel prices surged. So what’s the new excuse now?” he queried.
He lamented that the rising cost of renting halls, coupled with surging logistics, promotion, talent fees, security, and equipment costs, is making it nearly impossible for young creatives to organize events and grow their craft.
“This unchecked inflation is hitting creatives and entertainers the hardest. We are the ones constantly putting up shows and driving culture and commerce through art, yet we’re being punished for our passion,” he said.
Kobaba called for urgent intervention to support the creative industry, insisting that entertainers should not be grouped in the same category as wealthy families or elites who use such venues for social events.
“There’s a silent war against creativity. Something has to change,” he added.
