I was forced to perform in police cell, Skales recounts cell experience
In a shocking revelation, Nigerian singer Skales has opened up about a night he was forced to perform his hit songs Shake Body and Emergency inside a police cell all to secure better treatment from fellow inmates. Speaking during a candid interview shared by Zikoko Media, the musician recounted how he ended up behind bars due to a power struggle involving his manager and a wealthy Nigerian billionaire. Trouble with a billionaire According to him, the incident began when his manager got into a dispute with a Nigerian billionaire. Without warning, the police swooped in and arrested the manager. He was told he could leave. But the singer refused. “One time, my manager and I were locked up for no reason,” he said. “They told me to go home, but I said, how can you arrest my manager and I just leave?” The Musician insisted on following the police to the station. He wanted to write a statement to defend his manager. But things quickly took a turn. Instead of allowing him to leave after writing, the officers informed Skales that he would also spend the night in the cell. Recognition in the cell Inside the cell, he faced a tense atmosphere. But soon, one of the inmates recognized him. “One guy said I looked like Skales,” he recounted. “I told him, I am Skales.” The inmate was shocked. He asked how someone like him could end up in jail. He explained the situation. The inmate, familiar with such stories, sighed and told him, “That’s how these billionaires do.” Shockingly, the inmate even offered to “help” he takes revenge on the billionaire. But he firmly refused, telling him to forget about it. Singing for a sleeping spot The encounter didn’t end there. The inmate warned Skales that if he didn’t show respect to the cell’s leader or “boss” the other inmates would make life difficult for him. “So, they took me to the boss,” Skales explained. “When he heard I was Skales, he asked me which song I wanted to perform. He even sang some lines from Emergency.” The boss then made him an offer: if he performed for the group, they would let him sleep on a mat. Without the performance, he would have to join the rest of the inmates sleeping directly on the cold floor. The musician agreed, he sang his hits Shake Body and Emergency for the inmates, delivering a shameless performance inside the police cell. “I performed everything,” he said. “Afterward, the boss actually felt bad for me. He said, this boy doesn’t deserve to be here.” Surviving on family support Life inside the cell was rough. According to him, inmates rely entirely on money sent by family members to the police to buy food. Without that, they go hungry. “When you’re in the cell, your family has to keep sending money so the police can buy you food,” he revealed. “If they don’t, you won’t eat.” After his release, the experience stuck with him. Feeling grateful for the small kindness shown by the inmates, he returned with food to thank them. “When I left, I bought them a lot of food,” he said. An unseen side of fame In the interview, he admitted that few people know about this dark chapter in his life. It was one of several challenges he has faced in the music industry, many of which, he says, remain hidden from the public eye. Despite his fame, his story reveals the harsh realities of power, influence, and survival in Nigeria. Even a hitmaker with chart-topping songs can find himself at the mercy of the system, forced to sing for a place to sleep. Read Also: ‘Music industry friends betrayed me’ – Skales Police Treated Me Unfairly- Speed Darlington reveals Mr Macaroni’s fearless tale, recounts Police torture encounter
‘Music industry friends betrayed me’ – Skales
Nigerian Afrobeats artist Skales has spoken candidly about the betrayal he has faced from artists he once supported in their rise to fame. The singer, known for his hit song Shake Body, revealed that many of those he helped in the past have now turned their backs on him. Despite their actions, Skales remains steadfast in his faith, emphasizing that God has never abandoned him. He shared his experience on social media, encouraging fans to trust in God, no matter the circumstances. Betrayal from former associates Skales, who has been active in the music industry for over a decade, expressed disappointment over how some artists he mentored have treated him. While he did not name specific individuals, his message suggested deep hurt over broken relationships. He described feeling isolated at times, despite once playing a role in helping others succeed. His words reflect a common struggle among many in the entertainment industry—loyalty is often short-lived, and personal success can lead to unexpected betrayals. Faith remains his anchor Even in the face of disloyalty, Skales remains optimistic. He credits his faith in God for keeping him strong. His late mother, he said, instilled in him the importance of prayer and unwavering trust in divine guidance. On his X (formerly Twitter) account, he shared: “One day, I’ll sit down and tell you a story of how many people turned their backs on me, including those I helped build in this industry. But guess what? God never failed me, even when I was left alone… Never stop praying and trusting God with everything you have. That’s the best advice my mom gave me!” A message of perseverance Skales’ post resonated with many fans, who praised him for his resilience. Some shared similar experiences of betrayal, while others encouraged him to stay focused on his career. The singer’s journey has been filled with ups and downs. After leaving his former record label, he faced financial struggles before making a strong comeback with his music. His story serves as a reminder that setbacks are temporary and that faith and hard work can lead to success. Moving forward Despite the challenges, Skales remains dedicated to his craft. He continues to release music and engage with his fans, proving that setbacks do not define a person’s future. His message is clear: success comes with challenges, but staying true to oneself and maintaining faith can help overcome any obstacle. As he navigates the industry, he hopes his story will inspire others to persevere through difficult times. Read Also: Skales credits ex-label boss Banky W for sponsoring his education
Skales credits ex-label boss Banky W for sponsoring his education
Nigerian singer Skales thanked his former label boss, Banky W, for sponsoring his university tuition, showing gratitude years after graduating. On Thursday, the “Shake Body” hitmaker took to his X account to express his gratitude. His appreciation post came after he finally received his long-awaited university certificate. Skales shared a photo of his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and reflected on his academic journey. He revealed that although he graduated years ago, he only just got his official certificate. He dedicated the achievement to his late mother and acknowledged Banky W’s support in funding his education. “Aye, my BSc showed up after many years of graduation!” he wrote. “This is for my mother, and thank you to @BankyW for sponsoring the boy through school.” A history of support Skales began his music career under the guidance of Banky W. In 2009, he signed a record deal with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E), the record label founded by the singer-turned-politician. During his time at E.M.E, the label was home to other rising stars, including Wizkid. Reports suggest that Banky W enrolled both Skales and Wizkid at Lead City University to further their education while they pursued their music careers. However, Wizkid later dropped out to focus entirely on music. Skales, on the other hand, managed to complete his studies. His contract with E.M.E ended in 2014, leading him to continue his career as an independent artist. Despite parting ways with the label, his recent message shows that he remains grateful for the support Banky W provided in his early years. Fans react to Skales’ post Following his post, fans flooded the comments with congratulatory messages. Many praised him for acknowledging Banky W’s role in his education. Others reflected on how E.M.E played a crucial part in shaping the careers of several Nigerian artists. Some fans also used the opportunity to call for more support for young artists trying to balance education and music. They pointed out that while not every musician completes their degree, having financial backing can make a difference. Banky W’s legacy in Nigerian music Banky W has built a reputation for mentoring young talents in the Nigerian music industry. Under E.M.E, he helped launch the careers of artists like Skales, Wizkid, and Niyola. His influence extends beyond music, as he has also ventured into politics and philanthropy. His decision to invest in his artists’ education highlights his commitment to their long-term success. Many in the industry have praised him for prioritizing their growth, not just as musicians but as individuals. Skales’ heartfelt message serves as a reminder of how a helping hand can shape a young artist’s future. His journey, from a budding musician to a graduate and successful artist, showcases the impact of mentorship and support. As he celebrates this milestone, fans and industry colleagues continue to applaud both Skales and Banky W for their contributions to Nigerian music and education. Read Also: ‘He never liked me’ – Skales on rift with Wizkid
