Port Harcourt rapper KashMoney The Force has sparked conversation in the city’s entertainment scene after openly criticising the Rivers State chapter of the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN).
In a trending video, the rapper described the association as “useless” and accused its leadership of failing to make a meaningful impact on the careers and welfare of musicians in Rivers State.
KashMoney questioned the structure of the association, alleging that some of its leaders were more interested in personal benefits than creating opportunities for musicians.
“Rivers State PMAN, that system is just existing as a dud, so useless. It’s a big shame that we have such a system filled up with people who only think for their pockets, no structure and no positive effects in the industry,” he said.
One of his major concerns was the role PMAN plays in connecting local musicians to major brands and concerts. He particularly questioned why comedians were allegedly taking leading roles in organising or controlling music-related events while musicians themselves struggled to secure opportunities.
For KashMoney, a functional musicians’ association should be negotiating with brands, creating opportunities for artistes and ensuring that musicians in Rivers are properly represented whenever major entertainment activities take place.
He also compared the situation with comedians in Port Harcourt, whom he praised for what he described as better organisation and cooperation in pursuing their collective interests.
The rapper went as far as urging musicians to leave the association, describing Rivers PMAN as “deadbeat” and a “white elephant.”
The criticism is particularly interesting because PMAN Rivers presents itself as an organisation established to protect musicians, provide welfare support, promote local talent, mediate disputes and connect artistes with opportunities. Its official platform also lists training, advocacy and government representation among its responsibilities.
That contrast between what the association says it represents and what some musicians believe it actually delivers is now at the centre of the conversation.
