I ordered arrest of Nobat Events- Prime Minister Nabbanja

Events promoter Norbert Twizire (Nobat Events) may have mastered the art of selling shows, but Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja says he has landed himself in a show he cannot simply walk away from.

Hon. Nabbanja, who was the chief guest at Herbert Twina’s show at Marriot Hotel on Thursday, revealed that she ordered Nobat’s arrest over allegations of fraud, claiming he received money alongside fellow promoters but allegedly decided to enjoy the spoils alone.

According to the prime minister, Nobat and a group of associates stormed her office during a meeting to seek financial assistance. The group was subsequently given about Sh1 billion for their SACCO, she said. But what was meant to benefit the group allegedly turned into a one-man show.

“He used all the money alone,” Nabbanja said, explaining that the disgruntled associates later raised the alarm and sought her intervention.

She revealed that the matter was also brought to the attention of Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara, who reportedly contacted Nabbanja over allegations that Nobat had swindled fellow promoters.

Nabbanja said she helped the complainants open a case, insisting that Nobat must repay the money. On the prospect of his release, the prime minister was equally blunt: he must pay back the money owed to his fellow promoters.

The allegations come amid a wider inquiry into the management of the Sh10 billion grant President Yoweri Museveni pledged to support event promoters.

In June, Nabbanja disclosed that Sh3 billion had already been disbursed to the leadership of the promoters but was allegedly shared among a few individuals, prompting an audit.

The president had pledged the money after promoters complained that exploitation by moneylenders was hurting their businesses.

Nabbanja said the audit was intended to establish what happened to the initial disbursement, while a meeting with promoters would help determine how to distribute the remaining Sh7 billion more fairly.

The controversy has since raised questions about accountability in an industry where promoters routinely bring people together for entertainment but, when money enters the picture, may struggle to agree on who gets what.

Nobat appeared before the Makindye Magistrates Court on Monday, October 5, 2026, and was remanded to Luzira Prison.

He is expected back in court on October 26, when the case will proceed to its next stage.