Addressing Trauma in Nigeria’s Entertainment Industry: ID Cabasa Calls for Healing 

LEGENDARY NIGERIAN MUSIC PRODUCER, ID CABASA

Legendary Nigerian music producer ID Cabasa has raised concerns about the unaddressed mental health struggles within the entertainment industry. In a series of heartfelt posts on his X (formerly Twitter) page, Cabasa highlighted the silent battles many stars face, urging the need for a more empathetic approach to mental health. 

According to him, entertainers often carry unresolved trauma, and when they muster the courage to share their pain, they are met with mockery, judgment, and blame instead of support. This reaction exacerbates their struggles, forcing many to suppress their pain to maintain an appearance of strength. 

Criticism Deepens the Wounds 

Cabasa pointed out how society compounds the problem by treating entertainers’ cries for help as mere gossip or entertainment. He stated, “The entertainment industry has many stars that need healing… but commentators deepen their pain by criticizing them rather than showing empathy.” The culture of picking sides or ridiculing those who are open about their challenges discourages others from seeking help, creating a vicious cycle of hidden suffering. 

Real-Life Examples of Industry Challenges 

These observations come in the wake of a public feud between musician Spyro and music executive Ubi Franklin. Spyro accused Franklin of owing him ₦10 million and recounted a traumatic experience during his two-year stint with Paul Okoye’s One Africa Music Fest label. Such instances highlight the professional and personal challenges entertainers face, often with little to no support. 

A Call for Empathy and Action 

Cabasa’s message is a wake-up call for Nigerians to prioritize mental health, especially in the high-pressure entertainment industry. As fans, stakeholders, and society at large, we must shift from criticism to compassion. A culture of empathy can provide a safe space for entertainers to heal and thrive. 

We need to treat trauma more in Naija… A lot of people need closure. Unfortunately, when they speak up, rather than finding healing, people pick sides. We mock, blame, and judge people for things they need healing from.” – ID Cabasa 

ID Cabasa’s plea for mental health awareness within the entertainment industry serves as a reminder that entertainers are human too. Beyond the glitz and glamour, many are battling unseen struggles. Nigerians must rise to the challenge of breaking the stigma around mental health, promoting dialogue, and offering the necessary support. Healing is a collective effort, and together, we can ensure our stars shine brighter, free from the weight of unresolved trauma.