Nigerian rappers Phenom and Ycee clash online over collaboration disputes

Phenom and Ycee Clash on Social Media, Stirring Debate in Nigeria’s Hip-Hop Community

Nigerian rappers Phenom and Ycee recently sparked intense conversations across social media after engaging in a heated exchange that highlighted deeper issues of collaboration, respect, and industry dynamics within Nigeria’s hip-hop scene.

The dispute began when Phenom voiced his frustration on X (formerly Twitter) about the difficulty of securing features from top artists for his upcoming project. Reflecting on his own peak years, he noted how he had supported rising stars including Ycee and Falz by offering them opportunities when they were still emerging.

“Funny how when you’re trending, everyone wants a verse, but when you reach out, suddenly they’re all ‘busy.’ I remember when I helped a few rappers on their way up. Now it’s crickets,” he wrote.

Ycee responded swiftly, accusing Phenom of distorting the narrative. The Jagaban hitmaker insisted that he had been paid for the feature in question and accused Phenom of reusing a bar he originally performed on a collaboration with Olamide.

“Don’t twist the story,” Ycee fired back. “You paid me for that feature, and you even reused my bar from another record. Let’s be real.”

Phenom later clarified that his post was not directed at Ycee specifically, suggesting the rapper’s reaction was unnecessary.

The exchange quickly drew mixed reactions from fans. Some applauded Phenom for speaking openly about the challenges of securing collaborations in the industry, while others supported Ycee’s decision to defend his reputation and set the record straight. Comments ranged from criticism of ego and rivalry in Nigerian hip-hop to broader reflections on professionalism, loyalty, and respect.

Though neither rapper has issued a formal statement since the online exchange, the back-and-forth has reignited long-standing conversations about how emerging and established artists navigate recognition, support, and collaboration in Nigeria’s evolving rap ecosystem.