Tiwa Savage, a popular Nigerian musician, may lose some endorsements and have her public image harmed as she deals with an issue that has created an uproar on social media, a PR expert opines.
The release of a sex tape reportedly featuring the singer and her partner sparked outrage on social media on Wednesday.
Though Tiwa has yet to confirm or deny if she is the one in the video, she had previously raised the alarm in an interview with American OAP, Angie Martinez of Power 105.1, that she was being blackmailed by an unknown individual with a sex film.
Although she maintained that she would not pay a dime to the blackmailer, Tiwa feared that the intimate clip could negatively affect her career and public image.
Some Nigerians who doubted the singer opined that the alleged sex tape ‘scandal was a publicity stunt for her now released remix of ‘Somebody’s son” ft Brandy.
But Tiwa Savage stated that those saying it was a publicity stunt were merely disappointed that she was able to control the narrative and not allow the ‘blackmailer’ destroy her.
Tiwa’s purported sex tape, on the other hand, was finally made public. The blackmailer released the footage late Monday night, and by Tuesday morning, it had taken over every gossip corner.
Fans were taken aback when they saw the singer’s private moment with her partner. Many stated that the female in the sex clip had a remarkable similarity to the ‘Koroba crooner’.
With the social media arena abuzz, Tiwa, who appeared unconcerned, flaunted the diamond-encrusted wristwatch she had purchased.
Although it is not confirmed if the woman in the viral video is Tiwa Savage or if the released clip was that which the 41- year-old spoke of, the singer has remained mute on the issue.
Many have condemned the blackmailer for releasing the footage while others chide the songstress who is not a stranger to controversies for being careless.
Condemning the actions, some Nigerians said the clip was released because she bragged about ‘controlling the narrative.
According to a report by Daily Post, a PR expert, Issac Mayowa opined that although, the entertainment industry has been engulfed with several controversies involving many other artistes, one that is sex-related threatens an artist’s career and public image.
“The industry is filled with several scandals; from domestic violence to rumoured infidelity or rumoured extramarital affairs, but when a sex tape of an artist is released, it is a huge blow.
“It takes months, sometimes years to correct the damage such clip can cause. Sex tape damage control is a herculean task. Most endorsement deals come with moral clauses that give the company the right to exit the contract if a celebrity lands in trouble, as such could tarnish their reputation.”