Music producer Samklef has accused popular singer Davido of fueling toxicity and unhealthy rivalry within the Nigerian music industry.

Samklef made the allegation while responding to a social media post by producer-turned-singer Pheelz, who lamented the growing culture of comparisons and negativity in the industry.

“Music was meant to be enjoyed, not compared. This comparison game is damaging the sound and culture more than we realise,” Pheelz wrote.

Reacting to the statement, Samklef argued that there was mutual respect and unity in the industry during the rise of Wizkid and Olamide, before Davido joined the scene. According to him, the atmosphere changed with Davido’s emergence, ushering in what he described as toxicity, a “cultist mindset,” threats, and alleged streaming manipulation.

Samklef maintained that the music industry was never meant to thrive on rivalry or excessive competition.

He stated, “Music was fun when we started. When Wizkid came, there were no comparisons—just love.

“Olamide also came, and it was the same thing. No pressure, no hatred, just music.

“Then Davido came in, and from that point, the industry became toxic, with cultist mentality, threats, fake streams, and dirty tactics everywhere.”

His comments have generated mixed reactions online, with several critics faulting him for blaming Davido alone for the perceived decline in industry values.

As of the time of filing this report, Davido has not responded to the allegations.