UVA Articulates a Bold Stand for Artistic Freedom at AGY Yakasai’s “LABARINA” Music Video Premiere.

Lagos, Nigeria – Unchained Vibes Africa (UVA) made a powerful statement for artistic freedom and resilience during the premiere of AGY Yakasai’s highly anticipated music video titled “LABARINA” (My Story). The exclusive virtual event, streamed on UVA’s social media platforms, served as a rallying point for those advocating against artistic censorship in Nigeria.

AGY, a musician wrongfully imprisoned for a satirical song about a Kano State governor, reclaimed his voice through this project. Denied proper legal representation, he was sentenced to two years in prison but released after serving one year, thanks to the support of UVA and groups like the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA). The music video serves as a powerful visual narrative of AGY’s journey—from his wrongful arrest to his courtroom battles—while also highlighting the widespread challenges facing Nigerians today.

The premiere attracted a broad audience, including artists, human rights advocates, and champions of free expression. The event featured heartfelt messages from key figures, including Kola Alapinni, UVA’s legal adviser and a recipient of the U.S. Secretary of State’s International Religious Freedom Award; and the award-winning veteran journalist, culture advocate, Board Chair of CORA and UVA, Jahman Anikulapo. Their remarks reinforced the urgent need to protect artists from persecution and defend free speech in the creative industries.

During the event, Ayodele Ganiu, executive producer at UVA, spoke passionately about the video’s significance while acknowledging the contributions of partners and individuals who were involved in providing supports and interventions in defending AGY and securing his release from prison: “This event today, is a very important event because it’s a statement, it’s a bold statement of an artist reclaiming his voice, reclaiming his rights, reclaiming his fundamental right of artistic freedom. So AGY, a singer, a very conscious singer used his music as a form of activism to address the issue happening in his community”.

Jahman Anikulapo in his goodwill message said “the artist, as we always say, should own your truth. Be sincere in what you are pushing out. Be honest in what you are pushing out. And be conscious that circumspection is also part of art. You can create your work, but know that you are serving the community. And it’s very dangerous for the art because when you are producing, you are not producing for yourself or the people in your household. There are so many people with other sensibilities who are listening to your work.”

The premiere deeply resonated with viewers, igniting important discussions on the risks artists face when challenging those in power. The music video stands as a testament to the strength of creative expression, reminding the world that art should be celebrated, not suppressed.

Online participants’ contributions include “If our voices are silenced, our rights are denied”. Nora Dean said “The man has risen, embodied in the fearless voice of AGY who defiantly refuses to bow to tyranny”. Another participant also said, referring to AGY “This is truly awe-inspiring. He’s bold and talented. Imagine having many courageous and conscious artists like this guy in Nigeria. The message would be widely spread”.

UVA remains steadfast in its commitment to defending artistic freedom and empowering artists like AGY to continue using their voices for change.