Nigerian singer Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, popularly known as Skales, has shared a chilling account of being detained in a police cell and forced to perform his hit songs “Shake Body” and “Emergency” to secure better sleeping conditions. In a viral Zikoko media interview circulating online since May 1, 2025, the “Mukulu” crooner detailed how a business dispute with a powerful Nigerian billionaire escalated into a police matter, landing him and his manager behind bars. The incident, which Skales described as an abuse of power, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for reform in Nigeria’s justice system.
Skales recounted that the ordeal began when his manager was arrested following a fallout with the billionaire. Refusing to abandon his manager, Skales voluntarily followed him to the police station, only to be told he, too, had to spend the night in a cell. “They arrested my manager and told me to go home. I said, how can you arrest my manager, and I will go home?” he explained. Once inside, an inmate recognized him, leading to an unexpected demand from the cell’s “boss” to perform. “He mentioned ‘Shake Body’ and ‘Emergency,’ even sang some lyrics. He said I’d perform for them to sleep on a mat instead of the floor,” Skales revealed, describing how he sang “shamelessly” to secure the privilege.
The singer’s loyalty to his manager and his performance under duress have drawn praise from fans, with X users like @lawalhardcore calling him “one hell of a storyteller” and @jolloffbookclub joking that inmates got a “no-ticket concert.” However, the story took a darker turn when an inmate offered to “” the billionaire, an offer Skales swiftly declined. He also exposed the harsh realities of detention, noting that inmates relied on family payments to police for food, or they went hungry. In a gesture of gratitude, Skales bought food for the inmates upon his release.
The incident, which Skales linked to the billionaire’s influence, underscores systemic issues in Nigeria’s policing and detention practices, echoing his past criticisms of the Nigerian Police Force and the EFCC for alleged harassment. In 2023, Skales claimed EFCC operatives raided his home, traumatizing his family, and in 2024, he slammed police for excessive checkpoints. The viral interview, amplified by posts on X from @Zikoko_Mag and @GistReel, has reignited discussions about power abuses, with fans like @af_rican_cheryl noting the story’s blend of “sad, sweet, and funny” elements. As Skales continues to ride the resurgence of “Shake Body”—recently popularized by Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal—this tale of resilience highlights both his enduring spirit and the urgent need for justice reform in Nigeria.
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I find it hard to believe Skales performed Shake Body in a police cell. Is this for real or just a publicity stunt? 🤔
Wow, performing in a police cell? Thats a wild story! Wonder if the billionaire enjoyed the show. 🤔
I find it hard to believe Skales performed in a police cell. Is this a publicity stunt or a bizarre reality?
I cant believe Skales performed in a police cell! Would you do the same or bail out ASAP? 🤯
I find it hard to believe Skales performed in a police cell. Is this a publicity stunt or real? Thoughts?