Renowned Nigerian hip-hop star and activist, Ruggedman, real name Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, is currently in custody at the State CID office in Panti, Lagos, following alleged links to a leadership rift within PMAN, the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria.
Reports suggest a Deputy Commissioner of Police sanctioned the arrest, igniting criticism from rights advocates and fans who believe the action exemplifies the misuse of police authority to target individuals in the creative industry.
The incident was made public by activist Harrison Gwamnishu on X (formerly Twitter), where he stated:
“@RuggedyBaba is currently detained at State SCID Panti on the instructions of a Deputy Commissioner of Police over PMAN issues.”
He further alleged that “No proper investigation has been concluded, and he and others are being maltreated.”
Sources told SaharaReporters that Ruggedman was brought in for questioning amid recent turmoil surrounding PMAN’s disputed leadership.
The union, once heralded for championing musicians’ welfare, has become mired in infighting, legal tussles, and allegations of corruption.
Efforts to reach Lagos Police PRO Benjamin Hundeyin were unsuccessful, as his phone remained unanswered at the time of this report.