…Fan Wars Cost Uyo Hype Artist Her Davido Stage Moment
UYO — Rising hype artist Etieno “Ivana Wahala” Martin was dropped from the performance lineup at Davido’s 5ive Alive Tour stop in Uyo on Sunday, following social media backlash over a video she posted addressing her allegiance to Wizkid’s fan base NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
Ivana, known locally for her energetic hype performances, had been announced as one of the featured hype acts alongside Big Clem, with DJs Pee Jay and Ritzy also billed to perform at the Akwa Ibom leg of the nationwide tour. However, she became the focus of online controversy after she released a video ahead of the concert apologizing to Wizkid’s FC — a reference to the global fan community of singer Ayodeji “Wizkid” Balogun.
In the video, Ivana told fans she was not “switching sides” but was only performing because the concert was being held in her home state, Akwa Ibom. The post quickly went viral, drawing criticism from both Wizkid and Davido supporters who viewed her remarks as tactless and unprofessional.
Shortly after the backlash erupted, her name was reportedly removed from the official performance lineup, with some online users claiming Davido’s team acted after seeing the clip. Neither Davido nor his management has issued a formal statement on the matter, and it remains unclear whether the decision to drop Ivana came directly from the artist or the event organizers.
Eyewitnesses at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium confirmed that Ivana did not appear on stage during the concert. Despite the drama, Davido delivered what fans described as a thrilling show, performing hits from his Timeless album and older classics to a packed audience.
The incident has since fueled broader conversation on social media about the risks of fanbase politics in Nigeria’s entertainment industry and the impact of online behavior on professional opportunities. Many commentators advised upcoming entertainers to exercise restraint when engaging in fan rivalries, stressing that public image and neutrality are crucial for career growth.
“Ivana’s case is a lesson in discretion,” one music commentator posted. “You never know who is watching or where your next opportunity will come from.”
Our correspondent has sighted a video footage featuring Ivana apologizing to her fans after the show: “For the video I made about my performance, I am sorry that it sounded insulting. That was not what I meant. I am sorry I did not used the right words. I am very very sorry. Thank you guys,” the visibly sober hype queen said.
The 5ive Alive Tour, which has made stops in several Nigerian cities, aims to spotlight local talents while giving fans a taste of Davido’s nationwide concert experience. While the controversy surrounding Ivana has dominated online chatter, it has also underscored the power of fan communities and social media reactions in shaping narratives around Nigeria’s pop culture figures.
