Renowned Nigerian rapper, M.I Abaga, has stirred conversations with his latest take on some of the most outspoken figures in the Nigerian music and social commentary scenes. In a revealing interview on the Menism podcast, the revered lyricist likened veteran rapper Eedris Abdulkareem, Afro-fusion star Burna Boy, and controversial online activist VeryDarkMan, highlighting a common thread between the trio; bravery and activism.
M.I, who has long been celebrated for his cerebral bars and thought-provoking messages, delved into the deeper influences that shaped his artistry, crediting older-generation rappers for paving the way and inspiring his journey.
“I don’t like it when people say no one paved the way for them,” he said candidly. “What inspired me to rap was, first of all, the fact that I listen to rap music and I love rap.”
He opened up about how his youthful passions were once redirected by Nigeria’s lack of infrastructure. “Most people have that story when they are young, there’s something they love. When I was young, I used to do cartoons but there was no animation studio in Nigeria, so I gave up the dream.”
But his pivot to rap became a blessing in disguise. “It’s a different thing when you are a young rapper and you look up and you see Eldee The Don. Then there’s Ruggedman, who brought a new flay to the rap industry.”
M.I went further to spotlight Eedris Abdulkareem, placing him in a rare category of artists who ignited change through bold self-expression and political commentary. “There is also this guy called Eedris Abdulkareem. He was just like Rema. When you see Rema now, that was the energy that Eedris had back in the days. He was the Burna Boy of then.”
By equating Eedris with Burna Boy and VeryDarkMan, M.I underscored their shared defiance of the status quo and unapologetic outspokenness. The comment has since sparked reflection among fans and critics alike, reigniting conversations around legacy, influence, and the true torchbearers of cultural resistance in Nigerian music and activism.
