Event compère and rising entertainer Susan Ogweye Echo has joined the growing chorus of voices addressing sexual harassment within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
In a candid interview on AkweyaTV‘s “The 5th Estate Show” with Folusho Ogar, Echo shared insights from her decade-long career as a master of ceremonies at corporate and social events while highlighting the challenges women face in the industry.
“I would say I was born into it. It’s always been a part of me,” Echo said, describing her lifelong passion for media and entertainment.
However, Echo did not shy away from discussing the darker aspects of the industry, particularly sexual harassment, which she described as “a day-to-day reality.”
“It’s alarming, and it is like it has come to stay. From the young to the old, even infants are affected. It’s deeply rooted in our society,” Echo lamented.
The entertainer recounted a personal experience with a senior industry figure who attempted to exploit her in exchange for career advancement.
“I felt really bad. He wanted to take advantage of me to put me in line. But I wasn’t silent. I confronted him, and he ended up feeling embarrassed, and he apologised,” she revealed, noting that the incident did not derail her career.
Echo criticised industry veterans who feel threatened by emerging talents instead of supporting them. “Few people understand that as someone who is already there, you should support others coming up. Everyone has their time to shine,” she said.
She expressed solidarity with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who recently spoke out about her own harassment experience despite public criticism. “She did the right thing. The backlash is just noise. Her voice has given strength to many others who feel silenced,” Echo stated.
On accountability, Echo was unequivocal: “They should be brought to book. Lock them up if necessary. There should be consequences for their actions. In Nigeria, too many people get away with too much.”
She also addressed victim-blaming and the struggles of female artists in Benue State who face gender discrimination. “Most of them are trying their best, but they don’t get the support they need. Even if they release amazing content, people are more likely to promote a male artist with the same material,” she explained.
Echo questioned why talented women must resort to becoming social media sensations before their work receives recognition: “Why should a talented young woman have to go viral on TikTok or post dance videos before her music gets attention?”
Referencing Senator Natasha’s case involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Echo concluded by challenging the notion that conservative dress prevents harassment: “In the Red Chamber, she’s always decently dressed. So, what’s the excuse?”
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