Nigerian music legend, King Sunny Ade (KSA), has been declared “missing” by his daughter, Damilola Esther Adeniyi-Adegeye, who alleges that the 78-year-old icon is being kept away from his family and exploited by his manager and stepbrother, Dayo Adegeye.
In a series of emotional posts on social media, Damilola raised concerns that her father has not been seen or heard from directly by close relatives in weeks. She accused his handlers of isolating him, moving him between hotels, and using sleeping pills to keep him subdued while forcing him to perform despite his declining health and the recent loss of his daughter.
“The last time I spoke with my father, he was distressed. The call ended abruptly when someone took the phone from him,” she said.
Exploitation Allegations Spark Public Concern
According to Damilola, her father is being manipulated into continuing with public performances he can no longer physically or emotionally handle. She claimed he is being denied access to his home, office, and personal finances, while being scheduled for shows against his will.
“They are using him for money, keeping him drugged, and moving him from one location to another. He hasn’t even mourned his daughter properly,” she wrote, pleading for public support and intervention.
Screenshots of messages between family members and the accused manager, Dayo Adegeye, have been circulating online, amplifying the public’s concern over KSA’s welfare.
Conflicting Reports on His Whereabouts
However, a source close to the musician, speaking anonymously dismissed the claims as “fake news,” stating that King Sunny Ade was spotted performing in Lagos over the weekend. The aide provided no further evidence to substantiate the claim or reassure the public of the artist’s well-being.
Repeated efforts by Reporters to reach Clement Ige, manager of KSA’s radio station, for clarification, have been unsuccessful. He has not responded to calls or messages regarding the alarming reports.
As the public awaits verified updates, fans and concerned citizens are calling for transparency and welfare checks to ensure the safety and freedom of the revered music icon.
