Tiwa Savage Speaks on Industry Pressure as Harassment Claims Shake Afrobeats Scene
New conversations about harassment in the African music industry have resurfaced after sources close to several female artists revealed disturbing accounts of pressure, intimidation, and inappropriate behaviour from powerful male executives.
While no specific names were mentioned, insiders say the incidents include situations where female artists were allegedly encouraged to travel privately with male executives, expected to grant “access” for career opportunities, or faced retaliation for refusing advances.
One of the strongest voices in this ongoing conversation is Nigerian superstar Tiwa Savage, who has long spoken publicly about the struggles women face behind the scenes in entertainment.
Although Savage has not accused any individual in this latest discussion, her past interviews highlight the silent battles many female artists endure.
“A lot happens that people don’t see. The pressure, the bullying, the expectations placed on women in this industry… it’s real,” she once said in a BBC interview.
Industry Power Imbalance Under Fire
Music analysts note that Afrobeats has exploded globally, but the behind-the-scenes culture still mirrors “old-boys-club” systems where male executives often hold unchecked power.
A female artist who spoke on condition of anonymity told Nsemgh:
“Some deals disappear when you say no. And you can’t talk because speaking up means you’re labelled difficult, and your career suffers.”
Advocacy groups across Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa are calling for new Sexual Harassment Policies, whistleblower lines, and transparent deal-signing procedures to protect emerging talent.
Tiwa Savage’s Influence
With global hits, international tours, and brand endorsements, Tiwa Savage remains one of Africa’s most influential female entertainers. Her position has allowed her to speak openly about women’s empowerment, unfair treatment, and the need for safer working environments in entertainment.
Fans across social media are praising her for consistently using her platform to highlight issues that other artists are too afraid to bring up.
Calls for Reform
Industry leaders are being urged to:
- create independent oversight committees,
- install anti-harassment units in record labels,
- and ensure artists can negotiate deals without coercion or fear.
Women-led organizations say the silence must end.
“Afrobeats is going global; its standards must become global too,” one activist noted.
For now, the conversations continue — and Tiwa Savage remains one of the loudest voices pushing for a safer, more dignified future for African women in music.