Ludacris Manager Chaka Zulu Charged With Murder

Ludacris' longtime manager and Disturbing Tha Peace Records co-founder Chaka Zulu was charged with murder for a June shooting in Atlanta.

Chaka Zulu, music executive, longtime manager of Ludacris, and Disturbing Tha Peace Records co-founder, turned himself in to Fulton County Jail last Tuesday (September 13) after being charged with murder. Chaka, whose real name is Ahmed Obafemi, faces additional charges of aggravated assault, simple battery, and possession of a firearm or knife with intention to commit a felony.

Chaka was released last Tuesday on a $200,000 bond. The charges stem from an altercation in June, which led to the fatal shooting of Artez Jamil Benton. During the incident, three other men where shot including Zulu. The shooting took place around 11:35 PM outside of  Afro-Caribbean restaurant Apt4b in Atlanta. Following the shooting, Chaka was listed as “critical but stable” according to a source.

Chaka's attorney Gabe Banks told PEOPLE that the music executive "was forced to defend himself" while being attacked "by a gang of at least four individuals."

"Mr. Zulu was shot in the back during the shooting and nearly lost his life, and is still recovering from the nearly fatal injuries he sustained that evening. Mr. Zulu was at his place of business that night and had every right to defend himself," Banks said, adding that Chaka "lawfully discharged his weapon in self-defense; a weapon that he is licensed to carry."

Along with managing Ludacris, Chaka Zulu signed additional acts to Disturbing the Peace Records, including Chingy and Bobby V. In 2019, Chaka became Spotify's head of talent and artist relations.