Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has officially parted ways with YBNL Nation, the record label owned by rapper Olamide. While the split became apparent in February 2025 with the launch of Asake’s label, Giran Republic, new insights have emerged about what led to the separation.
According to entertainment lawyer Yemisi Falaye, Asake left YBNL because he felt cheated by the terms of his contract. She revealed that the singer had ignored legal advice at the time of signing with YBNL.
“He Signed His Rights Away” — Falaye Speaks
Falaye shared that Olamide had encouraged Asake to get a lawyer to review the contract. Asake brought the contract to her, but despite warnings that he was “assigning his rights in perpetuity,” he signed the deal anyway.
“I told him clearly that the agreement would give away his rights forever,” Falaye said. “But he was too excited. He felt I was trying to block his opportunity and even insulted me.”
She emphasized that Asake was desperate for a breakthrough, having spent years in the industry without major success before Olamide came into the picture.
Fallout and New Beginnings
Reports of their separation first surfaced in December 2024, but it wasn’t until Asake launched Giran Republic that the move became official. Despite the split, Asake and Olamide have continued to collaborate professionally, including on the recent track ‘99’ featuring Seyi Vibez and Young Jonn.
