Legendary Nigerian musician King Sunny Ade (KSA) has publicly refuted claims that he is missing or being held against his will, describing the reports as false, damaging, and fabricated.
In a statement released on April 28, 2025, the 78-year-old Juju icon affirmed:
“I, Dr. Sunday Adeniyi-Adegeye, MFR, also known as King Sunny Ade, am alive and well. It is very important to address the falsehood… and to assure the general public and loved ones that I am alive and safe.”
The rumors originated from Damilola Esther Adeniyi-Adegeye, KSA’s daughter living abroad, who took to Instagram to accuse her stepbrother, Dayo Adegeye, of holding their father hostage and mismanaging his finances.
Damilola claimed that KSA was unreachable and called for Dayo’s arrest, alleging theft and possible escape plans with a UK visa.
However, in response, Dayo dismissed the allegations, stating that Damilola was not in the right frame of mind and confirming that she had a 30-minute phone conversation with their father on Easter Sunday.
Dayo also clarified that he is not KSA’s official manager, while another son, David Adegeye, confirmed that their father remains active and healthy, having recently performed at an event.
KSA has warned bloggers and individuals behind the rumors to desist or risk legal consequences.
Widely celebrated as a pioneer of modern Juju music, King Sunny Ade holds a legendary status in Nigerian music history, having been the first Nigerian artist to receive a Grammy nomination.
