Legendary juju musician Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, popularly known as King Sunny Ade (KSA), has responded to swirling rumours of his alleged abduction, reassuring fans that he is safe and in good health.
The speculation was sparked after Damilola Esther, one of the 78-year-old icon’s children, raised alarm over his whereabouts late Monday. In a series of Instagram posts, she accused her stepbrother, Dayo, of allegedly detaining the musician and exploiting him financially.
However, another of King Sunny Ade’s sons, Emperor, debunked the allegations on Tuesday morning.
In a viral video obtained by this Chronicle NG, King Sunny Ade dismissed the rumours, stating unequivocally that he had not been kidnapped. Speaking from inside a vehicle, the Ondo-born music legend explained that he had simply taken a brief rest.
“Glory to the Almighty Father in heaven. People are more important than clothes—people are the honorary garments I wear. I thank God and my fans around the world. My children wanted to see me, and everyone was asking about me,” he said.
“During the few days I took off to rest, people began saying they hadn’t seen me. I thank God I didn’t go anywhere, I wasn’t kidnapped, and I didn’t kidnap myself either. My phone has not stopped ringing for over seventy hours.”
The juju music hitmaker extended heartfelt thanks to his global fanbase for their concern. He also noted that he had remained active in his professional duties.
“I’m actually on my way to a show. I was at an event in Lekki, Lagos, just last Saturday. So I’m shocked people are saying I was kidnapped. I thank Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu, and everyone else for their concern,” said the veteran performer, once described by The New York Times as “one of the world’s great band leaders.”
In addition, King Sunny Ade issued a strongly worded statement on Instagram, warning bloggers against disseminating false information. He threatened legal action against anyone defaming him with fake or doctored content.
“I, Dr Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, MFR, also known as King Sunny Ade, am alive and well. The claims made by Damilola Esther Adeniyi-Adegeye and her associates regarding my disappearance are entirely false. I appreciate the love and support from my fans,” he wrote.
“It is crucial to denounce the lies being spread by Damilola and others. I advise any blogger or individual attempting to damage my hard-earned reputation to desist immediately—or be ready to face the full weight of the law.”
