Yemi Solade, the Nollywood actor, has called out the organisers of an award ceremony for allegedly demanding money in exchange for a plaque.
The award event is scheduled for December 6 at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos.
On Wednesday, the 64-year-old Yoruba film star took to Instagram to share a message he purportedly received from the organisers asking him to pay for the plaque.
In the message, they were quoted as saying the payment was a form of sponsorship to cover production costs.
The organisers, in the screenshot, said Solade could still attend the event but “may not receive the plaque”.
“Good morning sir, trust you had a good night rest,” the message reads. “I did revert your response regarding sponsorship to the management.
“However, I think it doesn’t sit well with them as they also disclosed how much the plaques cost. Hence, you can pls attend but the award plaque may not be presented in order to save cost.
“Thank you for your kind understanding sir.”
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Award organisers respond to Solade’s allegations
However, in a chat with TheCable Lifestyle, the event spokesperson disclosed that Solade is still among the awardees and will receive his award, regardless of whether he donates.
He explained that their contract staff usually contact nominees to confirm their attendance and that logistical support may be requested but is not compulsory.
However, the spokesperson clarified that receiving an award is not contingent on donating.
“It is not true. His name has not been removed. What we do is when we nominate people, our contract staff reach out to them to confirm their attendance. And then, whoever is in charge of that is given permission to contact their nominees,” he said.
“For direct staff, if they ask for support from the nominees for logistics, it is not compulsory. But if the nominee is generous and wants to make a donation you can collect it. And the company will get a commission.
“All the plaques have been printed on. I can confirm that he is part of the awardees. You will receive award whether or not you make any kind of donation.”
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