Nigerian artist Shallipopi has set social media ablaze with a bold statement following The Headies Awards 2025. On April 28, 2025, just hours after the event, he took to X to reject his rap award, declaring, “I nor be rapper.”
See post:
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 (@plutomaniapopi) April 28, 2025
On April 28, 2025, Shallipopi (@plutomaniapopi) posted on X:
“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”
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This candid statement came shortly after The Headies Awards 2025, held on April 27, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, Nigeria. Shallipopi, who was nominated for six awards, including the coveted Next Rated category, won in a rap-related category.
The 17th Headies Awards were already under scrutiny for organizational issues, and Shallipopi’s post added fuel to the fire. The event faced criticism for technical glitches, delayed announcements, and perceived disrespect toward artists. Shallipopi himself had earlier hinted at dissatisfaction, on the same day, “The next one if una see me make I bend,” after reportedly receiving a handshake instead of a plaque for his win (@skipjnr9).
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The rap award controversy wasn’t Shallipopi’s only grievance. Fans pointed out that his win marked his first-ever award in his career, yet The Headies failed to present him with a proper plaque. @BigPeace6 called it a “very disrespectful act from headies,” while @Jiimmy_SZN noted, “Even shalli dey embarrassed for headies smh.” The combination of these slights likely contributed to Shallipopi’s decision to publicly reject the rap award.
The 2025 edition faced significant backlash, from Shallipopi’s handshake snub to broader organizational issues. @mine44000 remarked, “E bi like na every year we dey see the ‘Worst Headies’ naw oh😂,” reflecting a sentiment of declining quality. Shallipopi’s rejection of his rap award adds to the narrative that The Headies needs to reassess its approach to remain a credible platform for artists.
