AFRIMAs call for regulation of music industry amid Mohbad death

Nigerian police are currently investigating Mohbad’s death due to alleged threats to his life before he died on 12 September.

AFRIMAs president and executive producer Mike Dada said in a statement that the institutionalisation of music and entertainment remained a top priority in curbing unprofessional industry practices in Africa.

“AFRIMA is spearheading efforts to mobilise stakeholders in the creative industry in Africa, with a focus on Nigeria, to establish institutionalised operations and regulate the music entertainment industry.”

Dada said this included legislation to set standards as well as regulations and compliance for record labels, performing artists, publishing companies, entertainment lawyers and other industry professionals.

“It is necessary to have a law that regulates the music industry to prevent it from becoming an unregulated free-for-all, as currently the entry requirements are low such that anyone can just wake up and establish a music record label.”

To address this issue, Dada believes that local industries need to establish official bodies to certify practitioners. He said the AFRIMAs would leverage its platform to organise a stakeholder summit aimed at engaging the legislative arms of governments across Africa through the African Union. “We urge stakeholders to submit their proposed legislation for review and consideration,” he said.

Mohbad death has resulted in protests in Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja and Calabar. His death has also been met with candlelight vigils and a tribute concert in his honour, as well as international displays of support including a New York billboard featuring images of the late artist and a procession led by singer Bella Shmurda in Canada.

On Thursday, Lagos State police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said results were pending after the singer’s body had been exhumed for an autopsy.

“This is not trial by media. The right questions will be asked and answered at the right place before the right people, but most importantly, at the right time. Our hands will not be forced. Nonetheless, rest assured that every single homicide investigation protocol is being followed, as there is zero tolerance for shoddiness,” he said.