Controversial Nigerian singer, Portable, has openly criticized the organizers of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), accusing them of sidelining veteran actor Ibrahim Chatta during the recently concluded 11th edition of the awards.
Reacting about AMVCA via a passionate video on his Instagram page, Portable claimed that Ibrahim Chatta, who was nominated in the Best Lead Actor category for his role in House of GAA, was denied the award due to alleged industry politics and favoritism. The award ultimately went to Femi Adebayo for his performance in Seven Doors, while Chioma Chukwuka bagged Best Lead Actress.
“There’s a gang up in the Nigerian entertainment industry, even in Nollywood. They refused to give Ibrahim Chatta an award at the AMVCA despite his excellent acting. Just like they snubbed me at The Headies,” Portable lamented.
He further criticized Nigeria’s award culture, alleging that accolades are often given based on influence and money rather than merit. “We don’t need awards. We need food and money. Some people buy awards. Ibrahim Chatta, if they don’t honor you, God will reward you,” he added, calling Chatta his mentor and source of inspiration.
Interestingly, while fans and industry watchers debated the outcome, Ibrahim Chatta himself has now addressed the situation. In a recent interview on the Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast with skit maker IsBae U, the Nollywood star revealed that he was never snubbed by the AMVCA organizers in 2025, because he did not submit any work for consideration.
Chatta calmly explained, “I’m not interested in the AMVCA. Why should I pray for something I’m not pursuing? Whenever I feel like participating, I’ll make a film, submit it, and see if I’m worthy of the award.”
The actor, known for his exceptional performances in Yoruba-language films, suggested that his absence from major social events might have contributed to past assumptions about his exclusion. “Maybe they feel if they give me an award, I won’t show up because I’m not a very social person,” he noted.
Chatta, however, pointed out that his career is already filled with numerous recognitions, including the Nelson Mandela Award, the Pink Award from Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, and several others from industry peers like Odunlade Adekola.
While Portable’s comments have reignited conversations about fairness in Nigeria’s entertainment awards, Chatta seems content focusing on his craft and personal milestones rather than chasing industry validation.
See Portable’s comment below:
Watch Ibrahim Chatta’s interview below:
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