The Ethiopia TikTok Creative Awards are in full swing, and the competition for Best Informative Content has sparked unexpected controversy among fans. Two of the top nominees, Brooknews and Mussie Solomon, are currently neck-and-neck in the race, but the attention has shifted from their content to their personal religious affiliations.

Brooknews, an Orthodox Christian, and Mussie Solomon, a Pentecostal Protestant Christian , are both widely recognized for providing timely and insightful news coverage, offering viewers updates on events both inside Ethiopia and abroad. Their TikToks have become a go-to source for informative, digestible news content, helping audiences stay connected to social, cultural, and political developments.

Industry observers warn that this shift in focus could hurt both nominees, as the award is meant to honor creativity, originality, and the ability to inform and engage audiences—not religious background. By centering the discussion around faith rather than the quality of their TikToks, fans risk overshadowing the real achievements of the creators.

Despite the tension, both Brooknews and Mussie Solomon continue to produce content that resonates with viewers. Their videos cover topics ranging from social issues to educational insights, demonstrating why they were nominated in the first place. Fans are being urged to focus on these merits when casting votes, to ensure the awards reflect talent and creativity, not controversy.

As voting continues, the spotlight remains on the nominees’ work. This edition of the Ethiopia TikTok Creative Awards may serve as a reminder that content, not personal beliefs, should drive recognition in the creative space.