LEGENDARY musician King Sunny Ade (KSA) has debunked widespread rumuors concerning his safety, stating that he is neither missing nor kidnapped.
He responded to the rumour in a live video shared on Tuesday, April 29, by his wife, Bose Olubo-Adegeye.
The rumours gained traction after KSA’s daughter, Damilola Adeniyi-Adegeye, raised an alarm on Monday, April 28, via a series of social media posts.
In her messages, Damilola accused her stepbrother, Dayo — whom she described as the singer’s manager — of allegedly holding the music icon hostage and mismanaging his funds.
“Where is he? Where are his phones? He has not been online or picking up his calls,” she wrote. In another post, she demanded Dayo’s arrest and accused him of financial impropriety.
Responding, King Sunny Ade appeared calm and composed in the video, reassuring his fans and the public that he remained in good health and was actively performing.
“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,” he said.
He revealed that he had recently performed at a show in Lekki, Lagos, and was en route to another performance. “Music is my life; it is my business, and I will continue to do it,” he boasted.
Acknowledging the concern expressed by his children and fans, the music icon expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and concern, while clarifying that the confusion might have arisen because some of his children had not seen him recently.
“I know my children are in love with me, and they want to see me. I didn’t go anywhere. This is me,” he added.
Background
King Sunny Ade, is one of Africa’s most influential and internationally acclaimed musicians. Widely regarded as the pioneer of modern juju music, KSA has played a pivotal role in popularising traditional Yoruba rhythms on a global stage.
Beginning his music career in the 1960s, he rose to prominence with his innovative fusion of juju, Afrobeat, and highlife, enriched by the use of electric guitars, synthesisers, and complex percussion.
Known for his elaborate live performances and rich discography, Sunny Ade was one of the first African musicians to gain international recognition, signing with major labels and touring extensively across Europe and North America.
His contributions to music earned him two Grammy nominations and numerous national honours. Beyond his artistic achievements, he is also respected as a cultural ambassador, businessman, and philanthropist, advocating for the preservation and evolution of African musical traditions.