Gabriel Oche Amanyi, Nigerian singer and producer popularly known as Terry G, has addressed the backlash surrounding his performances at political events, insisting that he is not affiliated with any political party.
In a recent interview on The Real Shareholders podcast, the “Free Madness” crooner explained that his appearances at political gatherings are strictly professional engagements and should not be misinterpreted as political endorsements.
“As an artist, we are usually billed to perform. In the current economy, if you’re opportuned to even get a gig from a political party, you’re lucky. So, respect to the party,” Terry G said, highlighting the financial struggles many Nigerian artists face in securing paid gigs.
The singer lamented that fans have been unfair in their criticism, pointing out that many entertainers, including actors and musicians, take up political event invitations purely for economic reasons.
“I’m just doing my job. I’m an independent artist. I only went to political events to perform,” he emphasized. “At least fans should judge me based on what I said at those events, but instead, they are judging me based on my mere presence there. I didn’t tell anyone to vote for APC or any party. I just did what I was paid to do.”
Terry G’s comments come in response to ongoing public scrutiny over his performance at the pre-inauguration concert held for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in May 2023 at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. The concert, which was part of the celebrations leading up to the President’s swearing-in, featured several high-profile entertainers. However, Terry G’s appearance drew criticism from a section of the public who viewed it as political endorsement.
The backlash intensified when some social media users questioned why the singer, known for his anti-establishment and rebellious music persona, would associate himself with a political gathering, especially at a time when many young Nigerians were expressing dissatisfaction with the political climate.
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Responding to this, Terry G explained that the entertainment industry in Nigeria offers limited opportunities, and performers should not be vilified for accepting legitimate jobs that help sustain their careers and livelihoods.
“People need to understand that I didn’t go there to support anyone politically. I didn’t wear a campaign shirt or give a political speech. I went there to do what I’m known for, perform music. The same thing my colleagues do. I don’t understand why mine is being viewed differently,” he said.
The singer also took the opportunity to remind fans that he had previously criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). In November 2023, Terry G called out the party over unpaid performance fees, alleging that intermediaries within the APC hijacked the funds meant for him after the pre-inauguration concert.
“I didn’t even get paid for the performance,” he revealed in a social media post last year. “The money meant for me was allegedly diverted. So how can people say I was paid to endorse the party? I’ve even had to drag them publicly for my money. That should tell you I’m not affiliated with them.
Known for his unique style and energetic performances, Terry G rose to fame in the late 2000s and became a household name with his eccentric music, controversial lyrics, and unpredictable public appearances. Over the years, he has maintained a relatively low political profile, unlike some of his colleagues who have openly supported or campaigned for politicians.
With this latest clarification, Terry G is hoping to set the record straight and urge fans to focus on his music rather than speculate about his political intentions.
“I’m a musician, not a politician. I have never and will never ask my fans to vote for any party or candidate. I respect my fans too much to tell them how to think politically. All I ask is to be judged by my craft — not by assumptions,” he said.