Police reportedly arrest Nigerian rapper, Ruggedman

Nigerian rapper and activist Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, popularly known as Ruggedman, has reportedly been arrested by the police in Lagos.

The arrest is allegedly connected to an ongoing leadership dispute within the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN). Sources indicate that a Deputy Commissioner of Police ordered the detention. The development has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many condemning the use of state power against individuals in the entertainment industry.

Human rights advocate Harrison Gwamnishu confirmed the arrest via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, stating:

“@RuggedyBaba is currently detained at State SCID Panti on the instructions of a Deputy Commissioner of Police over PMAN issues. No proper investigation has been concluded, and he and others are being maltreated.”

According to sources familiar with the situation, Ruggedman was invited for questioning regarding recent disturbances linked to internal conflicts within PMAN. The musicians’ union has been embroiled in years of internal crises, including leadership disputes, allegations of fraud, and court battles over its legitimacy.

Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, were unsuccessful, as calls and messages to his phone were not returned at the time of filing this report.

Ruggedman, known for his activism and contributions to Nigerian hip hop, has previously been involved in various social issues. In 2019, he was attacked by four masked men in London, an incident the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) condemned and called for an investigation into. The association alleged that the attack was linked to supporters of embattled rapper Naira Marley.

The current arrest has raised concerns about the treatment of artists and activists in Nigeria and the potential misuse of law enforcement to settle personal or professional disputes. Civil rights groups are closely monitoring the situation, calling for transparency and accountability in the handling of the case.