Breaking News: Adekunle Gold Pulls Out of Music Central Fest!
It seems that Nigerian music sensation, Adekunle Gold, has made a tough call, canceling his performance at the highly anticipated Music Central Fest. This decision, announced on December 20, 2025, the final day of the two-day event held at Orange Island, Lekki, Lagos, has sent ripples through the music community. But what led to this sudden change?
Adekunle Gold took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his disappointment. He stated that the organizers failed to meet crucial obligations, preventing him from delivering the high-quality show his fans deserve. He expressed his regret to those who had planned to see him perform, thanking them for their unwavering support and understanding. He also advised fans to stay tuned to his official platforms for any further updates.
Following Adekunle Gold’s announcement, the Music Central Fest organizers posted a flier on their Instagram page. The absence of Adekunle Gold’s name and picture from the lineup confirmed the news. The festival, which kicked off on Friday, December 19, featured a diverse array of Nigerian artists, including Fola, Made Kuti, Fave, and The Cavemen. Adekunle Gold was initially a headline act, making his withdrawal a significant development that has ignited reactions from fans online.
But here's where it gets controversial...
As of now, the organizers of Music Central Fest have yet to release an official statement addressing Adekunle Gold’s claims or clarifying the issues he mentioned. This situation highlights a growing concern within Nigeria’s live music scene. Recent weeks have seen several events facing criticism over organizational issues, safety concerns, and unmet expectations.
Last week, Fola issued an apology to fans following safety issues at his What a Feeling concert, organized by Mainland Blockparty. Similarly, BNXN, formerly known as Buju, also apologized after fans were denied entry to his concert despite having purchased tickets. BNXN blamed the event organizers for prioritizing profit over safety and even refunded ₦250,000 to one fan.
Adekunle Gold's decision appears to be a stand for professionalism in the live entertainment space. Is this a sign of artists demanding better standards, or are there other factors at play?
And this is the part most people miss...
This situation could be seen as a turning point, with artists and fans alike calling for improved event management and a greater focus on delivering exceptional experiences.
What do you think? Do you believe Adekunle Gold made the right decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below!