By Kenneth Ehi-Choya | Saturday, June 21, 2025
LAGOS, NIGERIA — Fresh controversy has erupted within the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) following recent statements by a group identified as the Legal Advocacy Forum. The group’s claims regarding the leadership and legal status of the union have sparked widespread debate and prompted renewed calls for clarity and accountability.
At the center of the dispute is the ongoing battle between the leadership faction headed by Mr. Pretty Okafor and a rival group led by Chief Fruitful Mekwunye. Recent developments, including police investigations and court rulings, have brought renewed attention to the internal divisions that have plagued the association.
Police Investigation and Leadership Legitimacy
A comprehensive investigation by the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Department (FID), particularly the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit, has reportedly cleared Mr. Pretty Okafor of allegations of financial impropriety. The investigation’s findings, according to an official police report, confirmed the legitimacy of Okafor’s leadership and recommended prosecution of individuals implicated in unlawful activities, including break-ins, theft, and the misrepresentation of court proceedings.
Court Rulings and Government Recognition
A 2020 ruling by the National Industrial Court of Nigeria affirmed Mr. Pretty Okafor as the duly elected President of PMAN. This judgment, which remains binding and unchallenged, has been further reinforced by the endorsement of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
During the PMAN National Delegate Conference held on October 23, 2023, and observed by representatives from the Registrar of Trade Unions, Okafor was re-elected as National President. Other executive members elected at the conference include Sunny Neji (1st Vice President), Zakki Azzay (2nd Vice President), Baba Ojonugwa (National Treasurer), and Michael Oguchukwu (a.k.a Ruggedman) as National Ex-Officio.
Allegations of Fraudulent Activities and Legal Irregularities
The police report also details serious allegations against Chief Fruitful Mekwunye and associates, accusing them of organizing a parallel and unauthorized election, misleading the courts through fraudulent claims, and obtaining a questionable consent judgment for the rival “Lobby D” faction. Authorities describe this move as “fraud on the court,” asserting that the judgment is invalid.
Furthermore, the report implicates certain individuals in a break-in at PMAN’s national secretariat, during which approximately $130,000 in cash and other valuable items were allegedly stolen. Law enforcement has recommended the prosecution of those involved.
Bank Account Freezing and Jurisdictional Dispute
The police also noted the controversial freezing of Mr. Okafor’s bank account, carried out through a Post-No-Debit (PND) order secured from an Upper Sharia Court III in Minna. According to the police, the court lacked jurisdiction in the matter, and the report calls for the immediate lifting of the freeze order.
Shifting Alliances and Internal Turmoil
Several former executives, including Sunny Neji, Zaaki Azzay, and Ruggedman—once part of the recognized leadership—have reportedly aligned themselves with the rival faction. Their move has raised questions about their continued legitimacy within PMAN’s leadership structure. The police report and court rulings suggest that these members may have compromised their positions by associating with the disputed Lobby D group.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Amid the leadership tussle, musicians and stakeholders continue to demand transparency regarding PMAN’s financial dealings, particularly in relation to the union’s landed properties and financial records. While the police report has cleared Mr. Pretty Okafor, some argue that all executive members who served during the period under review—including Sunny Neji, Zaaki Azzay, Ruggedman, Asha Gangali, Itodo Boniface, and Faga Bern-Paul—should also be investigated to ensure a comprehensive and fair process of accountability.
With clear judicial and governmental recognition backing Pretty Okafor’s leadership, stakeholders have been urged to respect the rule of law and uphold the principles of due process. The ongoing disputes underscore the need for structural reforms, transparency, and unity within PMAN to restore the credibility of the union and promote the welfare of Nigerian musicians.
Kenneth Ehi-Choya
Musician and Member, Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN)
June 21, 2025
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