Nigerian rap star Phyno has vehemently refuted viral claims that he sold a N10 billion Lagos property to a Libyan businessman while allegedly discouraging Igbo investments in Yoruba-dominated areas.
The controversy erupted after journalist @JustSociety4All tweeted (now deleted): “Musician Phyno has sold his N10bn Lagos estate to a Libyan, calling it a mistake to invest in Yorubaland where Igbos aren’t welcome… He claims the 2023 elections revealed enduring anti-Igbo sentiments.”
The rapper, born Chibuzor Azubike Nelson, fired back on social media: “You’re a fool for cooking up this lie! Where are you heading with this? Anwu nta [You’re useless].”
Industry analysts note this isn’t the first time the “Fada Fada” hitmaker has confronted false property rumors. The estate in question remains unverified, with no public records confirming its existence.
Lagos real estate professionals expressed skepticism about the alleged transaction: “A N10bn single-asset sale would have registered across our radar,” said Bola Adekunle of Knight Frank Nigeria. “This appears fabricated to stoke ethnic tensions.”
The rapper’s management confirmed Phyno maintains all his Lagos investments and has never made tribalized business decisions. The artist recently unveiled plans for a new entertainment complex in Enugu while retaining his Lagos properties.
Social media users have condemned the original post as “dangerous misinformation,” with #PhynoFakeNews trending nationally. Legal representatives for the artist are reportedly considering action against the rumor’s originators.
This incident highlights growing concerns about weaponized misinformation targeting high-profile Igbo figures amid lingering post-election ethnic sensitivities. The Lagos State Government has yet to comment but maintains all investors remain protected regardless of ethnicity.
