Popular Nigerian rapper Ruggedman has been arrested and is currently being held at the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti.
The arrest, which took place earlier this week, is linked to an ongoing dispute involving the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN).
Activist raises alarm over alleged police abuse
The news was first made public on Thursday by human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu. In a post shared on Instagram, he accused police officers of detaining Ruggedman without carrying out a proper investigation.
“No proper investigation has been concluded. He and others are being maltreated. I wish to draw Nigerians’ attention to what is going on,” Gwamnishu wrote.
PMAN suspended Ruggedman in August 2024
The arrest appears to be related to internal issues within PMAN. In August 2024, the association suspended Ruggedman along with three other prominent members: JFO Baba Ojonugwa, Sunny Neji, and Zaaki Azzay. The suspension was based on allegations of misconduct and disobedience to the body’s leadership.
Although the full details of the misconduct allegations were never made public, the suspension deepened existing cracks within the association. PMAN has long struggled with internal disputes and disagreements over leadership, direction, and member rights.
Industry infighting escalates into police action
Sources familiar with the matter suggest that Ruggedman and the other suspended members had challenged several decisions taken by PMAN’s leadership. Their opposition reportedly led to tension within the group, which has now escalated into a full-blown legal conflict.
This development has raised eyebrows, as many question why a professional disagreement within a musicians’ union would result in police involvement. Critics argue that what should have been a civil matter is now being handled as a criminal case.
No official charges filed yet
As of Friday morning, there has been no official statement from the Lagos State Police Command. It also remains unclear whether any formal charges have been filed against Ruggedman or the others involved. Human rights advocates insist the police must explain why the rapper is being held and on what legal grounds.
Supporters demand justice and transparency
Ruggedman’s fans and fellow musicians have taken to social media to call for his release. They describe him as a long-time advocate for justice and fairness in the Nigerian music scene. He is known for speaking out against industry exploitation and for standing up for fellow artists.
This latest development has sparked widespread concern about the way entertainers and public figures are treated when they challenge authority. Civil society groups have called for the immediate release of Ruggedman and a thorough, transparent investigation.
Wider questions about PMAN’s role and credibility
The situation has also reignited questions about the role of PMAN. Is the association truly protecting the interests of musicians, or is it using its influence to silence dissenting voices? The arrest of Ruggedman, a former member who dared to speak out, adds weight to the argument that the body may not be living up to its original purpose.
What comes next?
The nation is watching closely as the story unfolds. For now, Ruggedman remains in detention. His supporters are hopeful that public pressure will lead to his release and that the truth behind the arrest will soon come to light.
In the meantime, the controversy has sparked renewed calls for reform, not only within PMAN but in the broader Nigerian music industry. Many say it’s time for unions and authorities to prioritise transparency, fairness, and the rule of law.
As one supporter put it, “This is not just about Ruggedman. It’s about every artist who refuses to be silenced.”
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