Nigeria’s entertainment scene was thrown into shock on Wednesday as reports emerged that Afrobeats star Lil Kesh, famed for his 2014 hit Shoki, was stabbed during a violent robbery in Lagos.
The attack, which allegedly left him with injuries to the neck and possibly the ear, also saw the robbers make away with jewelry worth millions of naira.
The Attack: What We Know So Far
According to Hip TV, The Guardian Nigeria, and Daily Post, the 29-year-old rapper—real name Keshinro Ololade—was accosted by armed men in Lagos. While the exact details remain sketchy, multiple reports confirm that he was stabbed and rushed to a hospital. As of now, neither Lil Kesh nor the Lagos State Police Command has issued an official statement regarding the incident.
Nigerians React: #PrayForLilKesh Trends
The news quickly spiraled across social media, triggering an outpouring of concern from fans, colleagues, and celebrities:
“He will walk out of that hospital in Jesus’ name,” one fan prayed on Legit.ng.
Another wrote: “This is becoming too normalized. Speedy recovery to him.”
Hip TV posted: “Prayers up for Lil Kesh. No one deserves such violence. Wishing him healing and strength.”
The hashtag #PrayForLilKesh surged as Nigerians expressed shock and solidarity, with many demanding stronger security measures in Lagos.
Why This Hits Hard
Lil Kesh isn’t just another artist—he’s one of the defining voices of Nigeria’s street-hop and Afrobeats movement, collaborating with heavyweights like Olamide, Davido, and Wizkid. His near-decade-long run in the industry has made him a household name, and the news of him being attacked has sent tremors through the music world.
At a Glance
Victim: Lil Kesh (Keshinro Ololade), 29
Incident: Stabbed during robbery; jewelry stolen
Medical Status: Hospitalized, extent of injuries unclear
Official Comment: None yet from police or artist
Public Response: Widespread prayers and outrage online
For now, fans across Nigeria continue to hold on to hope, rallying behind Lil Kesh as he recovers from an ordeal that has once again spotlighted the growing insecurity challenges in Lagos.