Controversial singer Gabriel Oche Amanyi, popularly known as Terry G, has credited himself with reshaping a bold aspect of Nigeria’s music culture.
The Free Madness crooner claimed that his influence gave Nigerian artistes the confidence to smoke cannabis openly on screen — a move he describes as a “sacrifice” that changed industry norms.
Taking to social media on Sunday, the self-styled “Akpako Master” wrote via his X handle:
“No hard feelings, it’s all love, but don’t forget — if not for my sacrifice, none of your faves would have the guts to smoke ‘Igbo’ on screen.”
Terry G’s statement stirred mixed reactions online. While some of his fans applauded his fearless persona and impact on street music, others were quick to challenge his claim, pointing out that legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti had publicly smoked cannabis on stage and on camera decades before Terry G’s emergence.
Despite the backlash, the singer stood by his words, suggesting that his unapologetic image helped normalize what was once seen as taboo in mainstream entertainment.
