Kenyan musician Bensoul has opened up about the events that led to the Kodong Clan’s last-minute withdrawal from a highly anticipated concert at Nyayo Stadium, citing disrespect and technical interference by event organizers.
Speaking during a recent interview with media personality Oga Obinna, Bensoul explained that tensions began during the soundcheck and rehearsal phase, days before the concert headlined by Nigerian superstar Asake. The show later drew national attention after reports emerged that a reveller died during the event.
Disrupted Rehearsals
According to Bensoul, the Kodong Clan—an artistic collective made up of seven performers—had formally requested and been granted a full-night rehearsal due to the complexity of their performance setup.
“Our act is not simple. We are seven artists. Every artist’s microphone has to be calibrated properly, our signals must not collide, and the lighting has to move in sync with the music,” Bensoul said.
However, while the group was rehearsing within their allocated time, Bensoul claimed that an unidentified individual began disconnecting their equipment on stage, disrupting the rehearsal process.
He described the move as unexpected and disrespectful, saying it directly interfered with their technical preparations.
Forced Off Stage
Bensoul further alleged that the organizers ordered the Kodong Clan to vacate the stage immediately to allow Asake’s team to conduct a soundcheck. At the time, Asake had reportedly not yet arrived at Nyayo Stadium and was still at his hotel.
The situation escalated, with the group feeling sidelined despite adhering to agreed rehearsal schedules.
Decision to Pull Out
Bensoul revealed that he was away attending another engagement when the initial confrontation occurred. Upon arriving at Nyayo Stadium later for his own soundcheck, he found the atmosphere tense and met his management team in the parking area.
“They told me they had already decided to cancel the performance,” he said.
According to Bensoul, the decision was not impulsive but came after what the group perceived as ongoing contempt and lack of respect from the organizers throughout the engagement.
“We decided to cancel because the disrespect had been there from early on,” he stated.
Lingering Questions
The Kodong Clan’s withdrawal added to the controversy surrounding the concert, which was later overshadowed by reports of a tragic death during the event. Organizers have yet to publicly respond to Bensoul’s allegations.
The incident has reignited conversations in Kenya’s entertainment industry about artist treatment, stage management, and respect for local performers at major international shows.
