In a bold move, Nigerian rapper Oladips has taken a stand against the 17th Headies Awards, criticizing the event for its exclusion of Indigenous Yoruba rappers from key rap categories.
On February 17, 2025, Oladips released a diss track expressing his frustration over the consistent oversight of Indigenous artists in Nigeria’s music industry. He paid homage to pioneering Yoruba rappers who inspired him to perform in his native language and questioned the absence of artists like himself from the nominations. Oladips views these omissions as a manifestation of the ongoing disrespect faced by Indigenous Yoruba rappers.
The 17th Headies Awards Nominations
The 17th Headies Awards, scheduled for April 5, 2025, unveiled its nominations on February 12, 2025. Artists such as Odumodublvck, Ayra Starr, Mohbad, and Shallipopi received multiple nominations, dominating various categories. Notably, Odumodublvck led with five nominations, while the late Mohbad posthumously received three nods. Despite this diverse lineup, the exclusion of notable Indigenous Yoruba rappers has sparked discussions about the award’s inclusivity and representation.
Historical Context of Controversies
This isn’t the first time the Headies Awards have faced criticism over their selection process. In previous editions, artists and fans have pointed out significant omissions and questioned the criteria for nominations. For instance, during the 14th Headies, Oladips condemned the award for naming Falz’s “Bop Daddy” as Best Rap Single, viewing it as disrespectful to the rap genre. The recurring nature of these controversies suggests a need for the Headies to reassess their nomination processes to ensure a more inclusive representation of Nigeria’s diverse music scene.
A Call for Local Support
In response to the growing emphasis on international accolades, Headies founder Ayo Animashaun has urged Nigerians to support local awards. He expressed concerns over the nation’s obsession with the Grammy Awards, emphasizing the importance of valuing and uplifting homegrown platforms like the Headies. Animashaun highlighted that while international recognition is valuable, local industry stakeholders must prioritize celebrating and promoting homegrown talent and initiatives.
The Path Forward
As the 17th Headies Awards approach, the discourse surrounding these omissions highlights the broader challenges within the Nigerian music industry. Ensuring that all artists, especially those contributing to Indigenous genres, receive recognition is crucial for the industry’s growth and diversity. Addressing these concerns could enhance the credibility of the awards and foster a more supportive environment for all artists.
