Entertainment practitioners in Rivers State have rejected a directive by the State Ministry of Culture and Tourism requiring event organisers and other stakeholders planning activities for November and December 2026 to visit the ministry for the profiling of their proposed events.
The practitioners described the directive as unilateral and disrespectful, insisting that policies affecting the entertainment industry should be developed through meaningful consultation with stakeholders.
In a statement by veteran singer, Lexy Mueka, reacting to the ministry’s announcement, the practitioners said they were not opposed to proper coordination, responsible event planning, public safety or constructive engagement with the government.
However, they maintained that such initiatives must be based on mutual respect, transparent communication and a clear understanding of the realities of the creative industry.
They argued that the entertainment sector goes beyond the organisation of parties and concerts, noting that it supports the livelihoods of musicians, event promoters, sound engineers, stage designers, lighting technicians, DJs, comedians, dancers, filmmakers, content creators, event managers, hospitality businesses, vendors and security personnel.
According to them, events involve substantial financial investments, contractual obligations, months of preparation and risks borne by private individuals and businesses, making stakeholder consultation necessary before policies that could affect their operations are introduced.
“The Ministry cannot reasonably expect cooperation from an industry it has not adequately consulted,” the statement said.
The practitioners also expressed concern over what they described as the continued neglect of the sector, recalling that they had raised concerns during the recent state budget presentation about the industry’s challenges and the need for government support and a clear development framework.
They said they were yet to receive a satisfactory response to the issues raised, questioning why the ministry had introduced an administrative process affecting their professional activities while their previous concerns remained unresolved.
The statement, however, clarified that the practitioners’ position should not be interpreted as hostility towards the government, acknowledging the role of public institutions in coordinating activities within their respective mandates.
They insisted that government oversight must be accompanied by accountability and respect for industry stakeholders.
“Respect must be mutual, and accountability must not be demanded from practitioners while their own legitimate concerns are ignored,” the statement added.
The practitioners urged the ministry to engage relevant stakeholders and address their concerns, stressing that cooperation would require recognition of the contributions and challenges of those working in the entertainment and creative industry.
