- she disclosed that the singer had been battling a long-standing and recurring illness identified as Ogu oru
- She explained that the condition resurfaced not long after the singer welcomed his child
- She added that efforts were made to seek healing from various herbalists and religious clerics in the hope of finding a permanent solution
Saida, the mother of late Afrobeats singer Afeez Adeshina, widely known as Destiny Boy, has given her own account of the circumstances surrounding her son’s death, amid widespread speculation online.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Saida spoke in a video that surfaced on social media on Monday, where she disclosed that the singer had been battling a long-standing and recurring illness identified as Ogu oru, which often triggered seizures and sudden health complications.
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According to her, the ailment had plagued Destiny Boy for years and significantly affected his wellbeing. She explained that the condition resurfaced not long after the singer welcomed his child, causing renewed concern within the family.
Saida revealed that about four days after the child’s naming ceremony, they visited a traditional ruler, Oba Edu Ifayomi, who had earlier initiated Destiny Boy and treated him as a son. The monarch had invited them to collect a ram meant for the naming ceremony.
It was during that visit, she said, that the illness struck again, leading to Destiny Boy’s collapse. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, following advice from Oba Edu, who continued to support his treatment financially as he was transferred between medical facilities.
When his health failed to improve, the family explored traditional treatment options. Saida said the monarch later requested that the singer be brought to his residence, where she personally assisted him with bathing using a special soap provided.
She noted that after returning home, Destiny Boy appeared to regain strength temporarily, although the illness often caused seizures and unusual behaviour. During such episodes, she said the family remained close to restrain and calm him, preventing him from harming himself or wandering off.
Dismissing rumours linking her son’s death to money rituals, Saida described such claims as false and insensitive, accusing those spreading them of exploiting the tragedy for attention.
She explained that the family deliberately kept his illness private because of his public status as a popular singer.
She added that efforts were made to seek healing from various herbalists and religious clerics in the hope of finding a permanent solution.
Saida further disclosed that Destiny Boy was active a day before his death, buying items for people, greeting fans, and speaking about a performance scheduled for Sunday.
However, when another seizure occurred, Oba Edu was out of town in Ife but returned immediately upon receiving the news.
She said the monarch would not have travelled if Destiny Boy had been stable at the time, adding that the singer’s father was also contacted before he was taken to the hospital.
The family has continued to appeal for understanding as they mourn the loss of the young artiste.
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