Nigerian rapper Ruggedman has been arrested by the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti over an alleged dispute with the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN).

Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu revealed this development on Thursday through a post on Instagram, expressing concerns about the rapper's treatment while in police custody.

"No proper investigation has been concluded. He and others are being maltreated. I wish to draw the attention of Nigerians to what is going on," Gwamnishu stated in his social media post.

The arrest appears to be connected to ongoing tensions between Ruggedman and PMAN. In August 2024, the musicians' association suspended Ruggedman alongside other members including JFO Baba Ojonorgua, Sunny Neji, and Zaaki Azzay, citing alleged misconduct.

Details regarding the specific nature of the dispute that led to the arrest remain unclear at this time. Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the charges against the rapper or the circumstances surrounding his detention.

Ruggedman, whose real name is Michael Stephens, is a veteran in the Nigerian music industry known for his advocacy for artists' rights and fair treatment within the entertainment sector.

This development has sparked concerns among fans and industry stakeholders about the relationship between artists and regulatory bodies in Nigeria's entertainment industry.

BenriNews will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.