Fast-rising singer and club hype man, Abdulsalam Ahmed Oluwadamilola aka Medulababy has claimed to be the originator of the lingua ‘Laho’ and not rave-making artist Shallipopi.
In an exclusive chat with The Nation, Medulababy asserted that he is the original creator of ‘Uwa Lahor’, a song he released on November 8, 2024, long before Shallipopi released his version earlier this year.
Although both songs have different tunes and lyrics, their titles are similar and convey the same meaning.
“I, Medulababy aka Parapara Presido, am the originator of ‘Uwa Lahor’. I sang and released it in November 2024, while Shallipopi released his version in February 2025. So I’m the real originator of the song’s title,” he said.
The 31-year-old entertainer explained that a lack of funds slowed down the promotion of his single, which may have caused public confusion regarding its origin.
“When I released ‘Lahor’, there was some delay in promotion because of financial constraints. I had to hustle as a hype man to raise money to push the song because I have no support from anyone,” he added.
Despite the controversy, Medulababy holds no grudge against Shallipopi, although he clarified that there is no personal relationship between them, only the fact that they both have roots in Edo State.
“I don’t know him personally. I only know he is from Edo State and I’m also based in Edo, though I hail from Ogun State. But he (Shallipopi) took advantage of my lack of resources to drop his version with the same title. ‘Uwa Lahor’ and ‘Lahor’ mean the same thing in the Benin language.”
When asked if he would consider collaborating with Shallipopi in the future, Medulababy responded with openness and maturity.
“Yes, of course. Music creates opportunities for collaboration as long as there’s love and unity between both artists. I’ll gladly work with him if he’s willing.”
