Nigerian singer Runtown has strongly rejected a recent court ruling that ordered him to pay over N319 million and remain bound to his former label, Eric Many Limited, making it clear he will not hand over access to his music catalogue.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Soundgod hitmaker addressed the label’s chairman, Prince Okwudili “Dilly” Umenyiora, popularly known as Mr Dilly, dismissing the latest development as another attempt to mislead the public.
“Back outside! So not going to let any agenda run …Mr Dilly, every year you try to deceive people with fake court orders … you think after 9 years I’ll give you passwords and access to my catalogue ?? lol nice try …. Keep trying,” he wrote.
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, in an enrolment order dated July 16, 2026, and delivered by Justice O.A. Musa, ruled that Runtown’s 2016 recording agreement with Eric Many Limited remains valid and has not been lawfully terminated. The court declared that Douglas Jack Agu, better known as Runtown, is still under contractual obligations to the label.
Justice Musa ordered the singer to pay a total of N319 million. This includes N266 million as the outstanding balance of the label’s investment and expenses that had not been recouped, plus N53 million in costs and damages. The ruling also affirmed that the trademark “RUNTOWN” belongs to Eric Many Records and restrained the artiste from performances, recordings, tours or other commercial activities covered by the contract without complying with its terms.
The bitter legal battle dates back to 2016 when Runtown sought to exit the deal. Eric Many accused him of accepting bookings, releasing music and planning international tours without approval. The dispute has spanned multiple court cases in Nigeria and the United States over the years, with both sides previously claiming victories at different stages. Runtown later launched his own imprint, Sound God, and has continued releasing music and performing independently.
Fans and industry observers have watched the long-running feud with keen interest, as it highlights ongoing tensions between Nigerian artistes and their former labels over control, ownership and creative freedom. Runtown’s latest response shows no sign of backing down after nearly a decade of legal sparring.
While the court has spoken, the singer’s public stance makes it clear the fight over his catalogue and independence is far from over.