How Top Music Icons, Ruggedman And 9ice Ended Age-long Rift

By Akinwale Kasali

‘Gongo Aso’ crooner, Abolore Akande, popularly known as 9ice, and Nigerian rap Star, Michael Ugochukwu Stephens, popularly known as Ruggedman, have ended their age long rift.

The duo had parted ways for years following allegations levelled against Ruggedman by 9ice of having an affair with his former wife and mother of Zion, his first Son, Tony Payne.

On several occasions the duo had sang songs to mock each other since the allegation, leading to the  breakup of Payne and 9ice.

Ruggedman and 9ice were one time best of friends in the industry, both singing together in the song, “Opomulero”, that was the toast of town then.

9ice often times regarded  Ruggedman as one of his backbones that made him a success in life. But, the Ohafia, Abia State born Ruggedman separated from 9ice following the allegation.

However, the duo were reunited at the 50th Birthday Celebration of Kunle Rasheed, a veteran Society Media personality at Radisson Blu Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

Both 9ice and Ruggedman performed to the delight of the crowd, as they both dished out songs from their archives to the admiration of guests present, who shared in the nostalgic moment.

After their performance, both were seen taking selfies with their teeming fans, as they even exchanged banters, putting an end to the speculation  that they were still at loggerheads.

Dignitaries from all walks of life graced the birthday gig of Rasheed, as Captain of industries, Government Officials, the Media and Nollywood Stars were present.

The birthday party saw the celebrant launching a Book titled, “Not Born With  A Silver Spoon”,to commemorate his day.

The Chief Launcher of the Book was the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu, Gboyega Akosile.

Rendering solemn and captivating songs was the King of Fuji Music, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, KWAM 1, with delirious voice that sent guests into frenzy.