The gloves are off between the EFF and Cassper Nyovest after the rapper filed legal action against Tsonga musician Benny Mayengani for using the #FillUp, which Cassper claims to have trademarked.
Benny hosted the #FillUpGiyaniStadium concert in Limpopo last weekend.
Earlier this week The Sowetan reported that Cassper planned to take legal action against Benny for not getting permission to use the phrase, which he claimed was his intellectual property.
Things reached a new level on Thursday evening when EFF leader Julius Malema weighed in on the situation, labelling Cassper a “bully”.
Malema said that the EFF’s lawyers would defend Benny in the battle.
We will defend you chief @BennyMayengani, don't be scared of bullies who are threatened by talent. We have the best in town, let them bring it on. #FillUpGiyaniStadium
— Julius Sello Malema (@Julius_S_Malema) September 6, 2018
The EFF also released an official statement condemning Cassper’s actions.
“Benny Mayengani must never be afraid of Cassper’s lousy lawyers, we have the best of the best, we will take them,” read part of the statement.
EFF CONDEMNS THE MOVE BY HIP HOP ARTIST CASSPER NYOVEST TO SUE TSONGA ARTISTS BENNY MAYENGANI FOR USING THE WORDS “FILL UP” FOR HIS CONCERT pic.twitter.com/iqQcFumQ2O
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) September 6, 2018
Cassper’s manager TLee slammed Julius on Twitter.
You take a stance for your homeboy when you know well & clear what he’s doing is 100{1f0bb132e08ca1f8565add86e1f8740171c75f84ed80bad4a750114913f392ef} wrong is not only opportunistic but embarrassing. I have so much respect for you, this is actually disgusting, we are NOT politicians! You are sacrificing the hard work of another Black Kid!! https://t.co/GHf0cm27sA
— December 1st.. Si On (@BridgeBossTLee) September 6, 2018
Cassper still encouraged fans to protect their ideas and said he was grateful for the overwhelming support he’s receiving.
Protect your ideas. It’s expensive but it’s worth it. Get your paper work right. TREAT IT LIKE A BUSINESS BECAUSE IT IS A BUSINESS!!! IT’S THE MUSIC BUSINESS!!!
— R.M Phoolo (@CassperNyovest) September 6, 2018
A lot of artists die broke because of the issue of ownership, they are mocked by fans & media yet when we educate ourselves, own our talent & ideas we’re attacked. I hope you’re learning through me. We’re about to #FillUpMosesMabhida on the 1st of December. Tickets at Computicket!!
— R.M Phoolo (@CassperNyovest) September 6, 2018
I really thought I would be under the fire for protecting my Concept but I have received so much support from fans & different individuals. Ownership is a lesson I’m still learning. I am trying to protect my ideas and build a sustainable career. Hoping for a positive outcome.❤️
— R.M Phoolo (@CassperNyovest) September 6, 2018
