By Eniola Mayowa
The situation involving Tope Alabi, the Gospel Singer, and Lizzy Anjorin, the actress, clearly shows that artist management goes beyond booking for engagement; it requires the service of a PR/brand consultant who understands the business.
The fallout presents valuable public relations (PR) lessons, especially reputation management, brand values, and stakeholder expectations. As a rule of engagement between an artist and a client, the following key takeaways may be considered for future reference.
1. Know Your Brand Identity and Values
Tope Alabi’s action underscores the importance of being clear about one’s brand identity and values. As a gospel artist, her music ministry is aligned with certain beliefs and standards. Entertaining at an event that might conflict with those values could cause reputational harm or confuse her audience. – Every brand (personal or corporate) must define its core values and stick to them consistently. Consistency builds trust.
2. Importance of Due Diligence in Booking
The fact that Tope Alabi was not informed of the identity of the celebrant reveals a breakdown in transparency and communication. This can lead to avoidable conflicts and public fallout. – Always conduct due diligence before committing to a public engagement. In event planning and brand partnerships, clarity and full disclosure are essential.
3. Handling Reputational Risk Professionally
Rather than causing a scene, Tope Alabi politely declined and refunded the money—a graceful exit that avoids unnecessary controversy while reinforcing her integrity. – When faced with potential PR crises, handle them with professionalism and courtesy. Refunds or apologies, when warranted, can be powerful tools in managing brand image.
4. Transparency Prevents PR Crisis
Had the organizers been upfront about Lizzy Anjorin being the celebrant, this situation could have been avoided. Transparency is a proactive PR tool. – Ensure all stakeholders are on the same page from the start. Surprises may be fun for parties, but not for professional engagements.
5. Reputation is Bigger Than Money
Tope Alabi chose her reputation over financial gain. In PR, the long-term value of reputation far outweighs short-term profits. – Protect your brand equity at all costs. Once public trust is broken, it’s difficult to regain.
6. Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes, the best PR strategy is to step back quietly. Her decision not to perform—even though it made headlines—ultimately showcased her commitment to her beliefs. – Not all publicity is good publicity. Walk away when an engagement doesn’t align with your brand.
Conclusively, this case is a strong reminder that public figures and brands are always in the spotlight. Every action or inaction sends a message to the public. Managing these moments with clarity, conviction, and composure is what distinguishes respected brands from the rest.
