The Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) is currently facing a leadership crisis following the suspension of its National President, Pretty Okafor.
On 25 December 2025, a faction of PMAN’s National Executive Council (NEC) announced that Okafor had been suspended from office. The same group also declared Sydney Sparrow as the acting national president.
Why Pretty Okafor Was Suspended
According to the NEC, the decision to suspend Pretty Okafor was based on allegations of financial mismanagement, abuse of office, and violation of PMAN’s constitution.
The suspension was communicated through an official statement signed by National Treasurer Baba Ojonugwa, acting on behalf of the NEC. The statement outlined the accusations and confirmed the leadership change pending further internal processes.
Zaaki Azzay Reacts to the PMAN Crisis
Speaking in an interview with HipTV, Zaaki Azzay, a former 2nd Vice President of PMAN, shared his perspective on the ongoing dispute and the wider issues within the association.
Azzay emphasised the importance of character and values in leadership, stating:
“No matter how much money you have, the most important thing you have is integrity.”
He further explained that PMAN’s effectiveness depends heavily on adherence to structure and constitutional order.
“If the structure of PMAN is working properly, the Nigerian future will be better than it is now, but when you have leaders with selfish interests, a good leader will follow the constitution.”
Zaaki Azzay Explains His Resignation
Reflecting on his decision to step away from the association, Azzay revealed that internal conflicts and leadership issues played a major role.
“I had to resign from PMAN because the drama was becoming too much. It was given to people who are not enlightened or educated enough to speak to me intellectually because their views are always opposite of your views.”
He added that the ongoing crisis within PMAN stems largely from a lack of experience and failure to respect the organisation’s constitution.
“The PMAN crisis is all about that.”
Background on PMAN
The Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) was founded in 1984 by legendary musicians Christy Essien-Igbokwe and Sunny Okosun. The association was established to protect the rights, welfare, and professional interests of Nigerian musicians.
PMAN is responsible for artist governance, royalty administration, and welfare initiatives. However, over the years, the organisation has repeatedly faced leadership disputes, factional divisions, and allegations of financial mismanagement, often leading to prolonged internal crises.
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