Nigerian rapper and activist, Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, popularly called Ruggedman, has been detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti, Lagos.
His arrest is tied to an ongoing dispute within the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), where tensions over leadership have escalated.
According to sources, a Deputy Commissioner of Police ordered Ruggedman’s arrest, sparking widespread backlash on social media and among human rights groups, who argue that state authorities are increasingly using their powers to suppress figures in Nigeria’s entertainment sector.
Human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, revealed the arrest through his verified X account (formerly Twitter), stating:
“@RuggedyBaba is currently detained at State SCID Panti on the instructions of a Deputy Commissioner of Police over PMAN issues,” he posted.
“No proper investigation has been concluded, and he and others are being maltreated.”
Insiders confirmed to SaharaReporters that Ruggedman was invited for questioning following a string of disruptions tied to internal wrangling in PMAN.
Once a beacon for musicians’ rights, the organization has seen years of controversy, including allegations of mismanagement and unresolved legal battles over its leadership.
Attempts to speak with Lagos police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin were unsuccessful, as calls and messages were not returned as of press time.