There Is No Relationship Between Naira Marley And I… Ruggedman Declares

Micheal Ugochukwu Stephens better known as Ruggedman is not new in the Nigerian musical scene. In fact, in the larger showbiz circle, he is not a novice and he remains an outstanding figure in the entertainment industry as a whole.

In a recent interview, he discussed his career, ideas, and of course his relationship with other artists.
Ruggedman, who has no doubt made a name and fame for himself in the music industry and has become a household name in that regard, expressed his desire to make a new mark in the Nigerian movie industry better known as Nollywood.

According to him, for a long time movie has remained one of what he has a passion for.

He said; ‘I have always wanted to do movies and as far back as I can remember. Do you remember Checkmate? God bless Francis Agwu, I appeared in two of Francis Agwu’s movies back then but only as an extra (waka pass). So, to show you how long this was, during the audition, I auditioned with the likes of Tony Umez, Jumai Joseph, that’s how long I did waka pass and this is before Tonto and co, so in a way, I’m a veteran wakapasser.’

He stressed further; ‘in 2016, I actually played the lead role in a movie but it never came out, it’s an MNET movie. I think they said they had issues when they were editing and they lost everything.’

This time around, according to him, he has been talking with notable movie producers and actors showing a sign that he is determined to make a formidable return to the screen.

The popular artist made a striking remark in the course of the interview when the interviewer asked him about his relationship with reigning music stars. He outrightly declared that he is a friend to whom he wants to be friend with.

He stated;‘We are colleagues, I’m friends with who I’m friends with and I’m colleagues with the ones I’m not friends with. Because we are all into entertainment does not mean we are buddies. What I have for everyone whether you are into entertainment or not is respect, I don’t about because you are buzzing and had to come running to you, no. I respect myself a lot and I respect everybody so I’m cool with everybody that is cool with me and I respect everybody that deserves my respect.’ Meanwhile, speaking about Naira Marley, as the interviewer particularity asked him, Ruggedman declared; ‘There is no relationship.’