Chocolate City Music not funded by CIA — Management

Nigerian music record label Chocolate City Music has dismissed a claim that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) funds it.

The company issued a statement Tuesday after a viral TikTok video linked it to the US agency.

Dismissing the claim, the company said that for over 20 years, it has built an independent African business through talent, hard work and legitimate commercial partnerships.

It said any suggestion that it is funded, controlled or directed by any foreign intelligence agency or state actor is false and irresponsible.

"The content in question also contains a fundamental error: Chocolate City Music has never had, and does not have, any contractual relationship or affiliation with Universal Music Group.

"Chocolate City Music remains wholly Nigerian-owned, proudly independent, and focused on building lasting value for African creatives and the African creative industries," the company said.