Liberian rising star S.I.O is in hot water after being caught in a web of promotional lies surrounding his upcoming single, “Blessings.” The artist, who recently announced a mentorship deal with Liberian hitmaker JZyNo, is now facing intense scrutiny from fans and critics alike after falsely claiming that Nigerian billionaire and socialite Cubana Chief Priest used his unreleased song in a TikTok video.
Days ago, S.I.O took to Facebook to announce that his single’s delay was due to strategic planning with JZyNo to maximize long-term revenue and global recognition. But the situation took a turn when he excitedly claimed that Cubana Chief Priest, a high-profile Nigerian personality, had used “Blessings” on TikTok, suggesting the song was gaining international traction.
However, an investigation by Geez Liberia revealed that Cubana Chief Priest doesn’t even have a TikTok account. The viral video in question was actually posted on his Instagram on March 9, 2025, and featured Flavour’s “Odeshi” (featuring Timaya), not S.I.O’s track.
The revelation has sparked a wave of backlash, with fans accusing S.I.O of fabricating the story to generate hype. Many are now questioning whether this was a misguided marketing tactic influenced by JZyNo, who has been known for bold self-promotion, including claims that his music has been championed by global figures.
“First, he delays the song, then he lies about Cubana promoting it? This is embarrassing,” one fan commented. “Is this how JZyNo taught him to promote music—by making up stories?”
Others have drawn parallels between S.I.O’s misstep and JZyNo’s own history of exaggerated claims about his international reach. “If S.I.O is lying about this, what does that say about JZyNo’s past boasts?” another social media user questioned.
It’s important to note that with the fast-paced of Liberia’s entertainment scene, trust is paramount. The fans can love and trust you with everything but the moment you break that trust they had for you, it’s over. While it’s trust that some fans are willing to dismiss this as a simple mistake and still see it as a form of promotion, others see it as a calculated attempt to manipulate hype and grow on falsehood.
As the controversy grows, all eyes are on S.I.O’s next move. Will he address the allegations head-on, or will this scandal cast a shadow over the release of “Blessings”? And more importantly, was this his own misjudgment, or did JZyNo’s mentorship lead him astray?
For now, the court of public opinion is in session, and the verdict isn’t looking good.
What do you think—was this an honest error or a promotional stunt gone wrong? Sound off in the comments.
