I Was Set Up!” – Ruggedman Exposes Brain Behind Fake Arrest Drama

Nigerian rapper Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, widely known as Ruggedman, has refuted claims suggesting he was arrested by the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti.

The rumors originated after human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu alleged that Ruggedman was involved in a dispute with the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN).

In a video posted on YouTube, the rapper dismissed the claims, calling them “ridiculous” and the product of a vindictive campaign.

Ruggedman described the allegations as part of a smear effort by an aggrieved individual, emphasizing that he has always stood up for the oppressed. He stated that his advocacy on behalf of the vulnerable is what triggered the current controversy.

According to him, a petition was filed against him and others, not over embezzlement, but concerning funds reportedly missing from an office. He clarified that the allegations remain unproven.

He identified the petitioner as veteran musician Pretty Okafor, a former PMAN president who was suspended by members of the National Working Committee (NWC), which includes Ruggedman.

Ruggedman claimed that Okafor lodged the petition against the NWC members who were instrumental in his suspension.

He urged the media not to be used as tools to tarnish the reputations of those working for the good of the industry.