Veteran Nigerian rapper Ruggedman, whose real name is Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, has been detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti, Yaba, Lagos.
The arrest was reportedly ordered by a Deputy Commissioner of Police due to unresolved issues related to the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN).
Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu revealed the news on Instagram, on Thursday, May 22nd, expressing concern over the rapper’s detention and alleged maltreatment.
Gwamnishu’s post reads, “@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 conducted. He and others are being maltreated.”
The arrest has sparked instant reactions online, with many netizens expressing outrage over what they perceive as a case of abuse of power.
Some fans have also linked Ruggedman’s arrest to his recent verbal clash with controversial activist Verydarkman (VDM), whom Ruggedman had criticized for his aggressive style of activism.
@sparkels1218 commented: “Investigations are done before arrest in a normal system, but Nigeria is always the opposite.”
@ezehpat said: “What kind of nonsense is this for goodness’ sake? What kind of lawless country is this?”
@iam_oje_official reacted: “This same Ruggedman when dey insult VDM. You see this country? E go reach everybody. This na pure abuse of power!”
Ruggedman has been a vocal figure in the Nigerian music industry, known for speaking out on social issues.
In 2020, he brought attention to police brutality by sharing a video of a police officer extorting money from a civilian, which led to the officer’s arrest