The Nigerian rapper Speed Darlington has taken to video to tell his former manager that he would rather hire a house help than keep a manager. The clip, which has been shared widely on social media, shows the artist dismissing the idea of a manager as “useless” and “a fraud”.
In the recording, Speed Darlington says, “Why I no go use you? You need to be used. You’re very useless, if not a fraud. I’m sure you can’t afford to buy a car.” He adds that he is looking for someone who will answer “Sir” from morning till night, implying he wants a servant rather than a business partner.
The rapper’s outburst comes after former manager Goskey, also known as Gaski, accused him of owing three years’ salary and of mistreating him in a “toxic working environment”. Goskey’s allegations were first reported in a public statement where he claimed Speed Darlington had not paid the full amount due for a boxing match against Carter Efe.
According to Goskey, the rapper received ₦30 million for the bout but only handed over a fraction of the sum. While earlier reports mentioned a larger unpaid balance, the most recent figures put the payment at ₦250,000. Goskey said he resigned after receiving that amount, adding that the shortfall left him with unpaid wages for three years.
Speed Darlington’s response directly addresses those financial accusations. “Wetin I wan do with manager? So my money go finish sharp sharp abi? I don’t need a manager because I don’t want anybody to eat my money. What I need is a house help,” he said in the video. The rapper’s tone suggests he sees any manager as a drain on his earnings.
The dispute over unpaid salaries
Goskey’s claim of three years of unpaid salary has sparked debate among fans and industry insiders. Some observers note that managers in the Nigerian music scene typically receive a percentage of an artist’s income, ranging from 10 to 20 per cent, depending on the contract. If the figures cited by Goskey are accurate, the unpaid amount could represent a substantial sum, especially when linked to a high‑profile boxing event.
Industry analysts point out that disputes over manager fees are not new. In recent years, several Nigerian artists have faced similar accusations, leading to lawsuits and public feuds. The lack of transparent contracts often makes it hard to verify each side’s claims, leaving fans to rely on statements released on social media.
Reactions from the public and peers
The video quickly garnered thousands of comments on platforms such as X and Instagram. Many fans sided with the rapper, praising his bluntness and labeling the former manager as “greedy”. Others expressed concern, urging both parties to settle the matter privately and avoid dragging the music community into a prolonged quarrel.
A few fellow artists, who requested anonymity, said they have seen similar “manager‑artist” tensions. They noted that the pressure to manage growing incomes and brand deals can strain relationships, especially when expectations about payment and loyalty are unclear. Some suggested that artists consider hiring professional management firms rather than relying on friends or informal arrangements.
Possible legal steps ahead
Legal experts familiar with entertainment law say that if Goskey decides to pursue the claim, he would likely file a civil suit for breach of contract and unpaid wages. The court would examine any written agreements, receipts, and communication between the two parties. Without a formal contract, the case could hinge on text messages and testimonies.
For Speed Darlington, the public nature of his response may complicate any settlement. Courts often view public defamation claims seriously, and a statement calling a former manager a “fraud” could be grounds for a counter‑claim. Both sides appear ready to let the dispute play out in the court of public opinion, at least for now.
The rapper’s mention of a “house help” instead of a manager also raises questions about his future business arrangements. Industry insiders speculate that he may seek a more traditional management structure, perhaps hiring a reputable agency to handle bookings, finances, and branding, while retaining personal staff for day‑to‑day assistance.
As the story develops, fans will be watching for any official statements from Speed Darlington’s legal team or from Goskey’s representatives. Until then, the video remains the most recent piece of evidence in a dispute that has already drawn considerable attention across Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
