The Nigerian music industry is once again embroiled in controversy as Obinna Michael Ikoku, CEO of Myke Records, has accused veteran broadcaster and Kennis Music boss, Kenny Ogungbe, of “stealing” one of Nigeria’s most versatile music talents, Kelly Hansome.
The allegation has reignited debates around intellectual property rights, and the legacy of Kelly Hansome, a prominent figure in Nigerian music during the mid-2000s.
Kelly Hansome, born Kelechi Orji, gained widespread acclaim with his 2008 hit single Maga Don Pay,solidifying his reputation as a gifted artist and producer.
Ikoku claims that before his rise to fame, Kelly was under contract with Myke Records between 2005 and 2006.
During this period, he also managed The Clap Music Studio in Ikeja, Lagos, owned by Ikoku.
The controversy was reignited after Ogungbe, co-founder of Kennis Music, made a bold statement on The Honest Bunch Podcast.
While the specifics of his claims are unclear, they have reportedly fueled the long-standing feud over Kelly Hansome’s transition from Myke Records to Kennis Music during the peak of his career.
Ikoku alleges that Ogungbe’s actions disrupted Kelly Hansome’s contractual obligations, a move he describes as unethical.
Although both Ogungbe and Kelly Hansome are yet to issue a formal statement addressing Ikoku’s allegations, the situation has sparked a heated conversation among fans and industry stakeholders about artist management and the need for transparency in record label operations.
