Nigerian singer Crown Uzama, popularly known as Shallipopi, is calling out the Headies to give due recognition to real rappers following his win for Best Rap Single at this year’s Headies awards ceremony.

The artiste behind the “Laho” hit took to his X (formerly Twitter) page on Monday to express his frustration. According to him, he doesn’t identify as a rapper and believes that the “real” rappers in the category deserve recognition.  

He wrote in Pidgin English: “The next one if una see me make I bend. I nor go even lie for una sef, I nor want that award, give the real rappers wey dey the category, me Shallipopi I nor be rapper.”

Shallipopi walked onto the stage after being announced as the winner of Best Rap Single for his song ‘Cast’ featuring Odumodublvck. However, he was not given a plaque, leading to confusion and criticism of the event’s organisers.

Artistes nominated in the Best Rap Single category included Odumodublvck feat. Bloody Civilian & Wale (Blood on the Dance Floor), Ladipoe, Rozzz & Morrelo (Hallelujah), Magnito (Canada), and Jeriq (Ije Nwoke).

The 17th Headies made its return home to Nigeria with the theme “Back to Base,” taking centre stage at the Landmark Event Centre, Lagos, to celebrate and recognise Nigerian musical talents.

Emerging star Divine Uzama, better known as Zerry DL, won Rookie of the Year, beating Taves, Kaestyle, Llona, and Sound. Late singer Mohbad was honoured with the Headies Viewers’ Choice award for his song ‘EGWU’ with Chike.

Rema continued his winning run, taking home Afrobeats Album of the Year for HEIS, rapper Odumodubvck won the Next Rated category, and Davido won Digital Artiste of the Year. Notable figures were also recognised, with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Alex Okosi, and Amaju Pinnick receiving Special Recognition Awards.