Legendary Juju musician, King Sunny Ade, has dismissed circulating rumours suggesting he had been kidnapped or was missing, stating clearly that he is safe and actively performing.
In a live video shared by his wife, Mrs. Bose Olubo-Adegeye, on Tuesday, the music icon addressed growing concerns sparked by claims made by his daughter, Damilola Adeniyi-Adegeye, on social media.
On Monday, Damilola had alleged that her father was being held against his will by her stepbrother, Dayo, whom she identified as King Sunny Ade’s manager. She claimed that Dayo was mismanaging the musician’s affairs and preventing others from contacting him.
In a series of online posts, she demanded Dayo’s arrest, accusing him of theft and obstruction. One of her posts read: “Dad told my brother that he wants to go home. Where is he? Where are his phones? He has not been online or picking up his calls. Where is he?”
In another post, she wrote: “I want Dayo (manager) apprehended. I want him to provide all the money they have been stealing from him. He has a UK visa, thinking he can run.”
Responding to the claims in the live video, King Sunny Ade assured fans that he is in good health and continuing with his musical engagements.
“Nobody kidnapped me. I pray, as I don’t want anybody to kidnap me. I believe that the whole world is in love with me. This is me, King Sunny Ade. I have to thank God and you, my fans, for the concern. I have been doing my shows. I was at a show last Saturday at Lekki, Lagos. I am on my way to have a show, and I am coming back again to play in Lagos, as well. So, I have nothing to say other than to thank God and to thank you,” he said.
He also acknowledged the concern from his children and fans, suggesting that the confusion may have stemmed from a lack of recent communication.
“I know my children are in love with me, and they want to see me. I didn’t go anywhere. This is me. I thank the children, too, for their concern as well.”
Expressing his continued dedication to music, the Juju icon added: “By God’s grace, enjoyment continues. I am still in music. Music is my life; it is my business, and I will continue to do it. I thank the whole world for loving me as usual.”