Durban musicians Bongekile Simelane, popularly known as Babes Wodumo, and Naledi Aphiwe Myongwane are facing legal action after allegedly failing to honour paid performance bookings at a KwaZulu-Natal entertainment venue.
The two artists have been served with summonses after they allegedly did not perform at Action Bar in Shakaskraal, KwaDukuza, despite receiving booking fees.
Two Missed Dates
According to court papers, the artists were initially booked to perform on May 2 but allegedly failed to arrive.
The venue owner later rescheduled the performances for June 27, offering the artists a second opportunity. Ahead of the event, both Babes Wodumo and Naledi Aphiwe reportedly posted videos on social media assuring fans that they would be performing.
However, they allegedly failed to pitch for the second booking as well.
Their absence prompted the venue to issue a public apology to patrons. To make up for the disappointment, the establishment opened its doors free of charge, with artists including Dankie Boi, Tipcee and DJ Banana stepping in to perform.
Financial Losses Alleged
A source close to the matter claimed the artists refused to refund the booking fees and became unreachable.
“They are facing legal action for refusing to return the money, and they are not answering their phones or responding to emails about the matter. The owner says he suffered significant financial losses,” the source said.
The summons reportedly seeks repayment of the booking fees, compensation for event-related expenses and damages for breach of contract.
Court documents indicate that Naledi Aphiwe was paid R30,000, while Babes Wodumo received R16,000.
Partial Repayment
Action Bar owner Johnson Govender confirmed the matter has been handed over to his attorneys.
“They have not responded to the legal papers. Naledi Aphiwe has repaid R25,000, but I want the outstanding balance as well as compensation for the losses I suffered after organising two events that they failed to attend,” Govender said.
He referred further queries to his legal representatives.
Repeated attempts to obtain comment from Babes Wodumo and Naledi Aphiwe were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Separately, Babes Wodumo has reportedly been arrested in connection with a contempt of court matter, although she has continued posting updates on social media.
