Nigerian Afrobeats singer Oxlade (real name Ikuforiji Olaitan) ignited controversy with a recent freestyle on Glitch Africa. Oxlade alleged he’s facing unfair treatment within the music industry, claiming that influential figures, or “gatekeepers,” are boycotting him. He didn’t specify the reasons behind the alleged boycott but hinted at potential conflicts with more established artists.

Oxlade went further, accusing some senior colleagues of blackmail. The details surrounding these accusations remain unclear. However, his comments suggest a possible rift between him and some veterans of the Nigerian music scene.

Adding fuel to the fire, Oxlade claimed that younger artists who have drawn inspiration from his sound are now criticizing him behind his back. “Many boys don dey sound like me and still many boys don dey backbit me,” he said in a freestyle. (This translates to “Many are now sounding like me, yet they still talk behind my back.”) This statement implies that Oxlade feels his influence is being acknowledged but not respected by some fellow musicians.

Oxlade’s claims have sparked discussions online about competition, mentorship, and potential gatekeeping within the Nigerian music industry.