Adedotun Kayode, known on air as Do2dtun, and [The Headies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Headies) founder [Ayo Animashaun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayo_Animashaun) exchanged heated messages on Twitter and Instagram after the awards body announced that its 18th edition will be held in Toronto, Canada, on 10‑11 April 2027, a shift from the originally planned October 2026 date.
**What triggered the dispute?**
Do2dtun opened the debate by asking why the Grammy Awards have never been taken outside the United States, using the question to criticize The Headies’ decision to move abroad. He argued that home‑grown ceremonies such as the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) retain credibility because they are rooted in the local industry.
> “AMVCA is an example. Why hasn’t it lost its credibility? This is why. It’s > homegrown; it serves the purpose for what it is for; it is built around an > institution not a person and its consistent in its delivery,” he wrote.
**Why does Animashaun say the criticism is personal?**
Animashaun replied that Do2dtun should organise his own awards rather than denigrate The Headies. He also alleged that the broadcaster had previously messaged him privately asking for help securing a U.S. visa, suggesting the criticism was motivated by personal frustration.
> “U criticise D Headies 4 goin abroad, yet slide into my DM asking me 2 help > U attend Bcuz U want a visa. when I can’t help, U bcom even more bitter & > criticize. So, is it really about Headies, or UR personal interests? > Hypocrisy at its finest! Awards U didn’t attend in Naij,” Animashaun posted.
**Did Do2dtun admit to the visa request?**
Do2dtun denied the allegation, insisting his remarks were about the broader impact of moving the ceremony overseas, not a personal grievance. He reminded followers that he has previously traveled to the United States and that his daughters were born there, and he challenged Animashaun to name the individual who supposedly sought his assistance.
**What are the broader implications for the Nigerian music scene?**
Animashaun maintained that the core issue is the role The Headies should play in nurturing Nigeria’s entertainment industry. He warned that criticism of the event should not be conflated with hostility toward its founder, emphasizing that the awards’ value lies in their cultural contribution rather than the preferences of any single organizer.
The controversy emerges as The Headies prepares for its 18th edition, now scheduled for April 2027 in Toronto after being postponed from October 2026. Organisers said the new timeline will allow for expanded activities in both Nigeria and Canada ahead of the main ceremony. The awards, founded in 2006, have become one of Africa’s most prominent music award platforms, returning to Nigeria in 2024 after two editions were held in Atlanta, USA.
**What does this mean for future ceremonies?**
Both parties appear entrenched: Do2dtun continues to champion locally‑based award formats, while Animashaun defends the strategic decision to internationalise the event. The outcome may shape how Nigerian music awards balance domestic relevance with global exposure.