Tems’ Manager Muyiwa Awoniyi Steps Down as Omah Lay’s Manager Amidst Industry Tensions
In a development that has stirred conversations across the Nigerian music industry, Muyiwa Awoniyi, the longtime manager of Grammy-winning singer Tems, has officially announced his exit from managing Afrobeats sensation, Omah Lay.
Awoniyi, who is known for his strategic leadership and vocal advocacy for artists’ rights, took to social media today, Friday, July 25, 2025, to confirm that he is no longer overseeing Omah Lay’s management affairs. The announcement marks the end of a significant professional relationship that played a vital role in Omah Lay’s journey to international recognition.
While Awoniyi didn’t provide a full explanation for the sudden decision, he made a striking remark that quickly went viral and ignited debate across fanbases and the entertainment community. In a sharp response to a comment from rising artist Kaestyle, also known for his hit “My Dealer,” Awoniyi stated:
“I agreed to manage Omah to get him out of the very slave deal that you signed. Now he is out, I also am out. You on the other hand are a slave.”
The statement, which appears to reference a controversial contract situation, has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about possible internal issues within the label or management circles. While Awoniyi did not mention any label names, his words suggest dissatisfaction with the nature of contracts some artists are locked into — a topic that has long been sensitive in the music industry.
Omah Lay, who recently completed a successful world tour and continues to enjoy global attention for his emotive sound and lyrical depth, acknowledged the change on his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter). He shared a heartfelt message expressing gratitude to his former manager, writing:
“Forever grateful, Donawon. Thank you for everything.”
This gesture has been widely interpreted as a sign of mutual respect between the two, despite the abrupt end of their partnership.
Muyiwa Awoniyi — known to many as Donawon — has built a reputation not only as a top-tier talent manager but also as an outspoken advocate for artist independence and fair representation. Under his guidance, Tems rose to become a globally recognized artist, collaborating with the likes of Drake, Future, and Beyoncé.
His brief but impactful time with Omah Lay saw the singer rise beyond the Nigerian music scene into the global arena, delivering hit records and captivating performances that solidified his position as one of Afrobeats’ brightest stars.
Industry insiders believe that Donawon’s departure could be rooted in deeper disputes involving record label politics, contract disagreements, or creative control — themes not uncommon in today’s music landscape, especially as artists become more aware of their value and demand more autonomy.
I agreed to manage Omah to get him out of the very slave deal that you signed. Now he is out, I also am out. You on the other hand are a slave. https://t.co/oKf4QhA8FA
For now, fans are left wondering what’s next for Omah Lay in terms of management and direction. Will he take a more independent route, or will a new figure step in to guide his next chapter?
Regardless of what follows, one thing is certain: Muyiwa Awoniyi’s legacy in shaping the careers of some of Nigeria’s most iconic artists continues to grow. His decision to step away from Omah Lay’s camp, paired with his unapologetic comments on artist contracts, once again places him at the center of industry conversations about fairness, ownership, and artistic freedom.
As the story develops, fans and observers alike will be watching closely to see how this change impacts Omah Lay’s career trajectory — and whether the conversation sparked by Awoniyi leads to greater awareness and reform within the Nigerian music business.
