Nigeria, April 20 -- Weeks after controversy trailed the delayed disbursement of prizes, organisers of the Edo Carnival have paid winners of the maiden band competition.

This was made known in a statement by the organisers of the Edo Carnival, made available to PREMIUM TIMES on Monday.

According to the Organisers, an event was held on 18 April in Benin City, during which beneficiaries received their prizes amid palpable relief, bringing closure to a dispute that had dominated social media conversations and raised questions about the credibility of the festival and its backers.

The Edo Carnival, which debuted earlier this year, had drawn widespread attention for its colourful parades, elaborate costumes and energetic street performances...