Shallipopi Rejects Rap King Crown After Headies Win: 'Give It to the Real Rappers'

In a surprising and brutally honest reaction that has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian music community, fast-rising artist Shallipopi has rejected his win for Best Rap Single at the prestigious Headies Awards, saying flat out that he doesn’t consider himself a rapper and that real rappers deserve the honor. The Pluto Presido, as he fondly calls himself, made his feelings known in a series of blunt posts on X (formerly Twitter), where he expressed dissatisfaction with receiving an award he believes should have gone to someone more rooted in the genre.

Shallipopi, who has dominated the airwaves with his unique blend of street hop, Afrobeats, and eccentric slang, was visibly unimpressed after receiving the award. In a tweet that has since gone viral, he wrote, "The next one if una see me make I bend." The statement, coated in sarcasm and his trademark street humor, reflected his disbelief and slight mockery of the situation. He accompanied it with a loud "Mtchewwww" for added effect, leaving no doubt about how unimpressed he was.

However, it was his next post that really shook the internet. "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," he declared, making it clear that he didn’t feel worthy of a rap crown. For an artist who has always been celebrated for his authenticity, the statement only cemented Shallipopi’s reputation as someone who refuses to play by the industry’s usual rules.

Fans, critics, and fellow artists have been left reeling by the unexpected honesty. Many praised Shallipopi for his humility and self-awareness, traits that are increasingly rare in an industry where most would gladly collect any accolade offered to them, even if it didn’t fit their true artistic identity. Some fans even joked that Shallipopi deserved a second award for "most honest artist of the year."

Social media exploded with reactions. On Instagram, fans posted memes of Shallipopi dramatically bending over in mock acceptance of the next award, while others called for the Headies to reconsider their category definitions. "Make we dey give award to who fit the music, no be by who trend pass," one user commented, capturing the sentiment of many who feel that award shows sometimes prioritize popularity over genuine artistry.

In truth, Shallipopi’s win had raised eyebrows even before his reaction. While no one could deny his dominance in the Nigerian music scene over the past year, many hip hop purists felt uncomfortable with his nomination in a rap category. Shallipopi’s music, known for its catchy street anthems, inventive slang, and heavy Afrobeats influence, doesn’t fit the traditional mold of rap. His honesty in admitting that he doesn’t even see himself as a rapper has opened up important conversations about genre blending in modern music and whether award shows are keeping up with the times.

For Shallipopi, who has consistently stated that he simply makes music for the streets without bothering about fitting into neat genre boxes, the incident is just another reminder of how much he prioritizes staying true to himself over chasing accolades. From his breakout hit "Elon Musk" to his Pluto Presido EP, Shallipopi has carved out a space for himself as a fearless innovator, and now, as a rare voice of blunt sincerity.

Industry insiders have also weighed in, with some defending the Headies' decision, arguing that rap in Nigeria has evolved beyond traditional bars and boom bap beats to include street slang and rhythmic flows like Shallipopi’s. Others, however, believe that awarding a non-rapper in a rap category undermines artists who have stuck to the core elements of hip hop, battling through the industry's ups and downs while staying true to the craft.

Interestingly, Shallipopi’s rejection of the award has ironically earned him even more respect among hardcore rap fans, many of whom now view him as a true street general who respects the culture enough to know his place within it. "It takes a real one to know the real ones," a fan tweeted, summarizing the admiration Shallipopi’s actions have inspired.

The Headies Awards, Nigeria’s most recognized music award ceremony, has often faced criticisms over its nominations and winners' selection. This latest incident adds to a growing list of controversies that suggest the organizers may need to revisit how categories are defined and ensure that nominations are more representative of the genres they claim to honor.

Still, for Shallipopi, life goes on. His fanbase, famously known as Plutomania, has only grown stronger following the incident. Rather than being seen as ungrateful or disrespectful, Shallipopi’s candor has endeared him even more to his audience. It’s the kind of move that fits perfectly with his brand: authentic, raw, and unapologetically street.

As he continues his rise, it’s clear that Shallipopi is not letting industry validation define him. Whether making viral street hits or starting conversations that shake up the music landscape, Shallipopi is playing by his own rules—and winning hearts in the process. His message to the world remains loud and clear: success isn’t about collecting trophies that don't fit; it's about staying true to your identity, no matter how shiny the distractions might be.

In an industry that often celebrates pretense and image over substance, Shallipopi’s bluntness is refreshing. His decision to call out what many only whisper about shows that authenticity is still alive in Nigerian music. As fans and fellow artists continue to digest the shock of his Headies reaction, one thing is certain: Shallipopi is in a league of his own, and he’s not bending for anybody—not even for an award.