blames disappointment on popular artiste Portable
By Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
A hospitality centre in Ilorin, the Kwara State, known as Starwood Hotels 02 Arena, has absolved itself of any blame in the recently botched Concert involving a popular Nigerian Artiste, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, and the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) in collaboration with Starwood Hotels O2 Arena.
Checks by this medium revealed that the Concert was billed for midday of September 29, 2024 at the arena, but Portable allegedly failed to show up until 4:06am of 30th September, 2024.
The Human Resources Manager of the hospitality centre, Mr. Ayodele Femi, in a statement, said: “Portable later pleaded to perform later that night, resulting in additional logistical arrangements and extended use of equipment.
“I wish to address our esteemed guests, clients and the general public regarding the recent incidents involving the artiste during his stay in Ilorin last weekend.
“We feel it is important to clarify our position and dissociate our establishment from his actions.
The event was intended to be a prestigious gathering, with notable figures, celebrities, and a wide range of attendees looking forward to Portable’s performance at the Concert Arena in Ilorin; which showcases the venue’s cutting-edge technology and unparalleled sophistication.
“Despite being scheduled to perform at 12:00 pm, Portable did not arrive until 4:06 am on the 30th of September, well after the event had been concluded and attendees had departed in disappointment.
“However, to our shock and dismay, Portable abandoned the hotel and the city by the evening of September 30, leaving without performing and causing further inconveniences to the organisers and guests.
“We wish to categorically state that Starwood Hotels O2 Arena had no involvement in, nor do we condone any disruption of the fiesta.
“Our hotel management and staff maintained the highest standards of professionalism throughout his stay and we strongly distance ourselves from his conduct.
“Our priority has always been the comfort and satisfaction of our guests, and we deeply regret any inconveniences caused by Portable’s actions during his stay in our hotel and in the city of Ilorin.”
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