Tebogo G. Mashego Stranded in Nigeria, Calls Out DJ Maphorisa Amid Exploitation Claims

 The “Biri Marung” star’s emotional plea reignites debate over Maphorisa’s history of alleged exploitation and the vulnerability of young South African artists abroad.

📸 South African artist Tebogo G. Mashego, known for his hit “Biri Marung,” has appealed for help after revealing he is stranded in Nigeria.

South African rising star Tebogo G. Mashego, best known for his hit “Biri Marung”, has sent shockwaves across social media after going live on Facebook in tears, revealing that he is stranded in Nigeria. Mashego said that he traveled there for work opportunities but that the people he had trusted and traveled with turned against him, leaving him without money or support. According to him, he won’t be able to return home until 30 September, unless he manages to raise enough to buy a return flight ticket.

The emotional livestream drew widespread attention not only because of Mashego’s desperation, but also because of the bold claims he made during the broadcast. At one point, he lashed out at well-known music figure DJ Maphorisa, saying “fuck Maphorisa” and insinuating that the star played some role in his current predicament.

This is not the first time Maphorisa’s name has surfaced in industry controversies. Over the years, he has faced repeated accusations of exploiting upcoming artists, often signing them under his label but allegedly leaving them underpaid, sidelined, or unsupported when it comes to royalties and recognition. Several young artists have spoken out about their struggles after working with him, saying that while their music gained traction, the financial reward did not reflect their success. This has built a public perception of Maphorisa as someone who benefits from fresh talent without always ensuring they are compensated fairly.

Tebogo’s outburst adds another layer to this ongoing debate. Despite “Biri Marung” becoming a hit, Tebogo says he has not been properly compensated for the track, and now finds himself abandoned while stranded in a foreign country. His cry for help has intensified discussions about how young musicians are treated in the South African music industry. Fans have rallied behind him, demanding accountability and questioning why so many stories of artist exploitation keep surfacing without consequences.

The situation has also raised broader concerns about the safety of artists working abroad, especially when management teams fail to provide adequate support. Industry experts argue that artists need stronger contracts, transparency in royalty structures, and protections when they are sent overseas to perform or promote music. Without these safeguards, many emerging talents risk being left vulnerable, both financially and physically.

For Maphorisa, the latest allegations add fuel to an already controversial reputation. He has long been seen as both a hitmaker and a lightning rod for drama with fans torn between acknowledging his undeniable influence in shaping Amapiano and questioning the way he handles business behind the scenes.

For Tebogo, however, the situation is far more personal and urgent. Stranded in Nigeria and appealing to South Africans for donations to get home, he has become a symbol of just how fragile the careers of young artists can be when systems of protection and accountability are absent.