Phyno Slams Journalist Over Tribalism Claims and Alleged N10 Billion Estate Sale in Lagos
Nigerian rapper Chibuzor Azubike Nelson, famously known as Phyno, has strongly dismissed a viral claim that he sold his N10 billion estate in Lagos to a Libyan businessman due to alleged tribal bias against the Igbo community.
The controversy began when a now-deleted tweet from an X user identified as JustSociety4All alleged that Phyno expressed regret over investing in “Yoruba land,” supposedly citing deep-rooted ethnic tension following Nigeria’s last general election. The tweet claimed Phyno had said, “The last election opened my eyes. The hatred towards Igbos is something that seems like it will last forever."
However, Phyno wasn’t having any of it. In a swift and sharp clapback, the rapper took to social media to label the entire story a fabrication.
“You are a fool for cooking up this type of lie!!! Where are you heading with this? Anwu nta,” Phyno wrote.
💬 Opinion: Dangerous Narratives Shouldn't Be Clickbait
Phyno’s response is more than justified — not just because his name was falsely dragged, but because ethnic tension is not something to exploit for engagement or cheap virality.
In a nation as ethnically diverse as Nigeria, public figures like Phyno walk a delicate line when navigating conversations around tribalism, property ownership, and social unity. What’s dangerous about this now-debunked tweet is that it attempted to stir division, not conversation.
It’s easy to see how people might fall for such a claim, especially in a post-election climate where tribal rhetoric was unfortunately amplified across social platforms. But to frame a respected entertainer like Phyno — who has never been known for divisive speech — as a peddler of ethnic resentment is not just lazy journalism; it’s harmful misinformation.
If anything, Phyno’s strong rebuttal reminds us of the importance of verifying stories, especially when they involve deeply sensitive topics. It also shows that public figures have a right — and even a duty — to call out falsehoods that may harm not just their image, but the fragile threads of national unity.
Let’s be more thoughtful with our platforms — and a little less reckless with our “scoops.”
