Popular Nigerian rapper Mr Real has issued a heartfelt public apology to veteran entertainer D’banj following a controversy ignited by comments he made about the Creative, Reality, Entertainment, Arts and Music (CREAM) platform.
The dispute began when Mr Real publicly claimed that the CREAM platform, founded by D’banj and positioned as a major player in the creative economy could not afford to pay him a reportedly agreed ₦20 million ambassadorial deal. These remarks quickly spread across social media, drawing sharp criticism from fans and industry observers alike who questioned both his claims and his tone.
D’banj’s legal team, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi, responded with a petition accusing Mr Real of criminal defamation. A magistrate court subsequently ordered Mr Real to appear on January 19, 2026, and issued an interim injunction restraining him from making further public statements about D’banj or the CREAM platform pending the case’s outcome.
Under this legal and public pressure, Mr Real took to Instagram with a video apology. In the emotional message, he acknowledged that his earlier comments stemmed from a misunderstanding and misinterpretation of the situation regarding the CREAM platform. In a move that surprised many industry watchers, he apologised directly to D’banj, whom he described as “like a father and mentor” and someone who has played a significant role in his life and musical journey.
“I misunderstood and misinterpreted some things concerning the CREAM platform, and I want to use this opportunity to say I am very, very sorry,” Mr Real said in the video. He also pledged to cooperate with the ongoing legal process and said he would refrain from further public commentary while efforts are made to resolve the matter privately and amicably.
The rapper confirmed that he has formally withdrawn the remarks that triggered the backlash, emphasising his respect and loyalty to D’banj. He also expressed regret over the public nature and tone of his original statements, vowing to “do better moving forward” and uphold respect within the music community.
D’banj, whose illustrious career spans decades and includes international hits and major endorsements, has not publicly responded to Mr Real’s apology as of this report’s publication.
