27th September, 2016
A former Chairman of the Performing Musicians’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Tony Okoroji, says he expects a free and fair election of PMAN president scheduled for October.
Okoroji, the current Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Tuesday that free and fair election of PMAN president was vital to upholding PMAN’s ideals.
He noted that PMAN played pivotal role in the entertainment industry and promoted musicians’ interest.
“I expect the upcoming election to be free and fair as the association seeks to elect a new president that will continue to strive for the progress of musicians in the country.
“It is necessary to amicably keep the association going because it helps to guide, protect and promote the interest of musicians in Nigeria.
“The music industry immensely contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the nation,” he said.
The chairman advised all parties involved in the election to work together and resolve any outstanding issues for a formidable united team.
He noted that Sunny Nneji and Michael Ugochukwu (a.k.a Ruggedman) were the major contestants for the presidential post, and wished them well.
Okoroji advised that the in-coming president should discharge his duties well.
“PMAN is not a place where you come and think you will get rich. It is a place you will sacrifice your time and energy for the good of the association,” he said.
Meanwhile, one of the contestants, Sunny Nneji, a renowned musician of “Tolo tolo” fame, promised to build on the achievements of past administrations, if elected.
He told NAN that he had some concepts to move the association to greater heights.
“I promise to discharge my duties and give the association my best, if elected president,” the musician said.
Nneji described Ruggedman as a worthy opponent.
“I respect Ruggedman. I also respect his works. He has every right to contest. I pray the best man wins,” he said.