Eddy Kenzo has addressed the chaos that erupted during his scheduled performance in Arua over the weekend, where property was damaged by disappointed revellers.
In a detailed social media statement, Kenzo explained the events leading to his non-performance and expressed regret for the unfortunate incident.
Kenzo revealed that after performing in Adjumani on Friday, his team arrived in Arua by 4 PM on Saturday, ready for the show.
However, just two hours later, they received unsettling news that the event promoter had been arrested under unknown circumstances. Concerned about the situation and the unpaid balance owed to them, Kenzo’s manager went to investigate.
Upon arriving at the scene, the manager discovered that the promoter had been charged with fraud and was facing significant debts to over 25 individuals involved in the event. Tensions rose as many of these people gathered at the venue, demanding payment. Kenzo’s team contacted the District Police Commander (DPC) for additional security due to the increasing unrest.
However, by 9 PM, the situation had escalated, and by midnight, chaos broke out due to the promoter’s failure to pay those involved.
For safety reasons, Kenzo was advised against going to the venue, as videos and photos of the turmoil emerged. Despite their initial eagerness to perform, Kenzo and his team decided to prioritize safety, especially since even the local artists could not perform due to non-payment.
Kenzo issued a heartfelt apology to the people of Arua, acknowledging their disappointment, particularly because it had been two years since his last show in the region.
Kenzo also addressed rumors circulating about his team allegedly knocking down someone, categorically denying the claims and asking the public to disregard them.
About the Arua Show
I would like to provide an update regarding the recent events at the Arua Show.
On Friday, we performed in Adjumani, and after a brief rest, my team and I arrived in Arua by 4 PM on Saturday. However, around 6:30 PM, we received alarming news that the promoter had been arrested by individuals unknown to us. Concerned about this situation and our outstanding balance as previously agreed, my manager went to investigate.
Upon arrival, he discovered that the promoter was facing charges related to fraudulent practices and had incurred debts with numerous parties involved in the show. Over 25 individuals were demanding payment and gathered at the venue, which added to the tension.
My manager then contacted the District Police Commander (DPC) to explain the unfolding situation and requested additional security due to the irregularities observed. By 9 PM, the situation escalated as the aggrieved parties began to cause chaos. Although we managed to control the situation temporarily, it worsened as midnight approached, primarily because the promoter had failed to pay anyone.
I began receiving alarming calls from multiple sources advising me against attending the venue due to safety concerns. They shared pictures and videos depicting the chaos on the ground, urging me to stay away for my own safety.
We had arrived early, eager and prepared to perform, but it became clear that we could not take the stage before 10 PM, especially considering that local artists were also scheduled to perform but couldn’t do so because they hadn’t received any of their payment.
I sincerely apologize to the people of Arua for the unfortunate turn of events. I was looking forward to performing for you, especially since it has been two years since my last show in the area.
My team and I are currently discussing the next steps to address this situation. I apologize once again for the disappointment caused.
This incident reflects a lack of professionalism on the part of the promoter. We have learned valuable lessons from this experience and will ensure to conduct thorough due diligence when dealing with promoters in the future.
Lastly, I want to clarify that rumors regarding my team knocking a person are entirely false and should be disregarded.
Thank you for your understanding.