The prestigious 2025 ThisDay/AriseTV Awards, scheduled for January 22, faces significant challenges as high-profile nominees have begun withdrawing their participation over controversies surrounding a $200 million loan linked to Nduka Obaigbena, the founder of ThisDay and AriseTV.
A Federal High Court in Lagos recently froze the accounts of General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL), a company owned by Obaigbena, across all Nigerian financial institutions, following allegations of indebtedness to First Bank Nigeria Limited. The court has also restrained banks from releasing funds to the company.
While GHL and Obaigbena have refuted claims of owing First Bank the sum of $225 million, insisting they are not indebted, the legal battle has reportedly disrupted operations at ThisDay Newspapers and AriseTV. This disruption has also cast a shadow over the upcoming awards ceremony, a significant event in Nigeria’s social and political calendar.
The fallout from the controversy has seen several nominees declining their awards, citing concerns over the ongoing scandal. One nominee, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “I am no longer attending or receiving the award. I have made my intentions known to the organizers. I appreciate the nomination, but at this time, I won’t be attending. It is unfortunate what is going on. I hope they find a way to resolve it.”
The withdrawal of nominees has raised questions about whether the event will proceed as planned. The awards, known for attracting top personalities from within and outside Nigeria, could suffer reputational damage if further withdrawals occur or if the event is canceled.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was named Man of the Year, is among the prominent individuals slated to attend the event. However, with the ongoing controversy, doubts loom over whether his attendance and that of other key figures will proceed as scheduled.
Observers note that the controversy threatens to undermine the credibility of the awards, which have grown into a major platform for celebrating achievements in various fields. The organizers face mounting pressure to address the situation and reassure stakeholders about the integrity of the event.
