Organisers of the MTV EMAs have blamed human error for awarding Nigeria’s Wizkid the ‘Best African Act’ award last month.
The award has now been given to Tanzania’s Ali Kiba, meaning Wizkid now retains only the ‘Best Worldwide Act’ award.
The stripping of Wizkid of the African award provoked a social media outcry, but MTV explained: “Both Wizkid and Alikiba are great artistes and deserving winners at the MTV EMAs and we congratulate them wholeheartedly on their achievements. We apologise for any confusion but we are pleased to recognise the achievements of both these artists on this global platform.”
‘Worldwide Act’ winners, including Wizkid, were selected by an international committee of MTV music executives to recognise current artists who are rising to have a wider geographic appeal beyond their local regions.
The winners were chosen based on a range of criteria including international MTV video play, radio airplay, streams, and sales across multiple territories and regions.
The winner of the ‘Best African Act’ award was selected by fans via votes on MTVEMA.com.
Ali Kiba has also commented on winning the award saying, “Thanks to MTV for this huge honour – it’s very exciting to be recognised at the MTV EMAs and I am delighted to bring home the award to my fans in Tanzania and East Africa. Thank you to my family and management.” (NAN)