Shallipopi Accuses Dapper Music of Withholding Royalties, Threatens EFCC Action
Shallipopi (Crown Uzama) accused music executive Dapper Music of withholding royalties from 46 of his songs, including the hit “E Don Cast,” and alleged that his catalogue was sold to Virgin Music without proper accounting. He made the claims on X, saying Dapper is holding his money and threatening to report the matter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The singer also alleged that Dapper lied to the EFCC, claiming he was not the only artist affected by the dealings.
This dispute highlights ongoing concerns about royalty transparency and contract fairness in Nigeria’s music industry, where artists often rely on intermediaries for revenue collection. If proven, the allegations could prompt broader scrutiny of how music catalogues are managed and monetized, potentially affecting other unsigned and signed acts.
Shallipopi said he will go to an EFCC office to file a statement and warned Dapper that he is prepared to pursue legal action. For artists and industry stakeholders, what steps can be taken to safeguard royalties and ensure transparent accounting in music deals?