The Association of Encouragement Movement of Oshimili North and South Local Government Areas in Delta State has issued a firm warning to their counterparts from other states, stating that they will no longer tolerate what they describe as the “invasion” of their territory without proper consultation and collaboration with local stakeholders.
The groups — including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), stage managers, sound engineers, gospel artists, saxophonists, DJs, and others under the Delta State chapter — expressed their position during a press briefing held in Asaba on Thursday.
The initiative is being coordinated by the office of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Entertainment to the Governor of Delta State, Hon. Frank Otoide, in collaboration with all heads of entertainment organisations in the two councils.
The stakeholders emphasised that any entertainment activity in the region must recognise and involve existing local administrators and guilds.
Dr. Otoide, alongside Emma Onyemeziem, Chairman of the Actor Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in Delta State, stated that their aim is to raise awareness, strengthen the entertainment framework, and ensure local stakeholders are acknowledged and included in the planning and execution of events within the area.
“We are not placing sanctions yet, but we expect recognition,” Dr. Otoide stated. “It is even more economical and effective for event organisers to use people on the ground for logistics, human resources, and material planning. This collaboration will save costs and foster mutual growth.”
He further revealed plans to convene a town hall meeting to discuss the challenges facing entertainers in the region, chart a way forward, and encourage all entertainers to affiliate with their relevant guilds.
“We want everyone to know that these Councils are not just peaceful locations where events randomly happen. Some of us have worked hard to create this enabling environment, and it is only right to be acknowledged,” Onyemeziem added.
The groups also used the occasion to throw their weight behind Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s second term ambition, endorsing him for the 2027 election. According to them, his administration’s MORE agenda — focused on development and empowerment — should be sustained until 2031.
“We believe in continuity of projects and community-based initiatives. The entertainment industry will actively participate in the election campaigns, vote, and coordinate members to support the governor,” Dr. Otoide said.
“This level of involvement will also create an avenue for the sector to attract more government attention and support.”
The association assured that the entertainment community in the two Councils would remain united and strategic in ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions to the socio-cultural fabric of Delta State are recognised.
