Ice Prince Opens Up on Pain of Losing AKA Without Reconciliation
The Nigerian rapper admits the unresolved rift with his late South African friend still weighs heavily on him.
Nigerian rapper Ice Prince Zamani has revealed that he is still grappling with the death of South African rapper AKA, admitting that the unresolved tension between them continues to weigh on him.
The pair fell out in 2019 after AKA made controversial remarks about Nigerians during xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Ice Prince, once a close collaborator and friend, publicly criticized him over the comments, sparking a rift that was never mended.
Speaking on the G2G Podcast, Ice Prince reflected on their bond, recalling how AKA had visited his Lagos home multiple times and describing him as more than just a fellow artist. He expressed deep regret that they never reconciled before AKA was shot dead outside a Durban restaurant in February 2023.
“I wish we got to speak about it because we never did,” Ice Prince admitted. “It hurt me so bad because that’s my friend. AKA wasn’t just an artist I worked with, he was family to me.”
Despite the pain, the Nigerian star said he has sought healing through prayer. Ice Prince shared that he often remembers AKA in his prayers, which has brought him a sense of peace.
“I have prayed about it many times. Sometimes when I’m praying, I see him there. I know we are at peace, and I believe he looks out for me as one of my brothers in heaven,” he said.
Fans and music lovers have continued to reflect on the impact both rappers had on African hip-hop, with many noting that their friendship, even in its strained state, remains part of their legacy.
