Singer Spyro and music executive Ubi Franklin have engaged in a public exchange of accusations over alleged unpaid debts, with both parties providing different accounts of their grievances.
Spyro, in a recent appearance on the Echoroom podcast, accused Franklin of deceiving him into performing at an event under false pretenses and failing to pay an agreed amount.
According to the singer, the issue began when Franklin told him that Nigerian superstar Davido wanted him to perform at a birthday party for $5,000, an amount he considered far below his standard fee.
“I have an issue with Ubi Franklin. He came and said David wanted us to perform at a birthday party he was invited to, that he was going to give $5,000. I called him to the side and said I don’t charge that amount; by Nigeria currency, I charge at least N20 million,” Spyro said.
He further claimed that after being “ambushed” to perform, Franklin later changed the narrative, saying Davido was not behind the request.
In response, Franklin took to social media to present his side of the story, alleging that Spyro owed him 10% from a previous business deal involving the purchase of a car. Franklin claimed that Spyro agreed to pay him the percentage but had since reneged on the promise.
“Enough is enough. A while back, Spyro called me that he wanted to buy a car, and I connected him. When I connect buyers with sellers, I get my own 10%. It’s a business. Later, he called me that they should reduce their money, that he would help them promote, and I told him they don’t need that. Just pay them their money,” Franklin wrote.
He explained that Spyro purchased the car for ₦100 million but did not pay him his commission. Franklin also said the issue resurfaced during a trip to Ghana for singer Iyanya’s birthday when a show opportunity worth $5,000 arose.
“After the money was paid to me, I called Spyro regarding my 10% for the car. He said when he completes the car payment, he would sort me out. After a while, I called him, and he stopped picking my calls. The $5,000 is still with me. Tell him to pay me my 10% since he wants to malign my name,” Franklin stated.
Both parties have since released private WhatsApp chats in an attempt to substantiate their claims, escalating the dispute into a public spectacle.
