December 12, (THEWILL) – Dapper Music & Entertainment, led by Damilola Akinwunmi, has issued a formal response to allegations leveled against it by its former signees, Crown Uzama (popularly known as Shallipopi) and Moshood Abdulmuiz (aka Muyeez).
The label denied the accusations, describing them as misleading and aimed at tarnishing its reputation.
In a statement on Thursday, the label reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fairness, and artist development, while addressing the financial and operational realities of the Nigerian music industry.
Responding to Shallipopi’s allegations of being bound by a “forever deal,” Dapper Music clarified, “We do not have any agreements with Mr. Crown Uzama that tie the artist’s future earnings to our business indefinitely. Our contracts solely relate to recordings and opportunities provided by our team within the agreed contract term, which is standard practice in the industry.”
The label also rejected claims of financial mismanagement.
It stated, “We have provided full accounting via our system. Mr. Uzama’s claims are false, particularly as we are fully cooperating with the auditors he engaged.”
Dapper Music equally addressed Muyeez’s assertion of signing as a minor, labeling the claim as baseless.
“It is false that Moshood Abdulmuiz, aka Muyeez, signed any contract with us as a minor. His guardian and father, Moshood Basheer, signed the contracts on his behalf in the presence of witnesses at a formal signing ceremony,” the statement read.
The label further described the accusations as “premeditated and sponsored attacks” intended to undermine its growth and success.
Dapper Music disclosed plans to seek legal redress, stating it would pursue the matter in a “court of competent jurisdiction.”
The statement shed light on the financial challenges of operating in the Nigerian music landscape, where royalty payouts are lower than in other regions.
Dapper Music defended its 30 percent management commission, calling it a reflection of the resources invested in artist development.
It also noted that Shallipopi was allowed to renegotiate his contract after the success of his debut album, with full legal representation provided.
The label thanked fans and investors for their support.
The statement added, “To the fans who buy tickets, stream songs, and share music, thank you for believing in the power of creativity. To the businessmen who venture into this unpredictable industry, your belief is the backbone of our resilience.”
Dapper Music reaffirmed its dedication to fostering talent and creativity while calling for an industry built on mutual respect and shared responsibility.
“For this industry to thrive, there must be balance—a recognition of effort, respect for partnership, and understanding of mutual responsibility,” the statement concluded.
Ivory Ukonu is a versatile journalist with many years of experience, with entertainment and society reporting as her area of core competence.
