Destiny Boy’s Mother Says Singer Battled Strange Illness for Two Years Before His Death

The mother of late Nigerian Fuji and Afro-infused singer Destiny Boy has opened up about her son’s prolonged struggle with a mysterious illness that lasted nearly two years before his tragic death. (Nigerian Entertainment Today)

In an emotional interview, Saidat Adeshina, the mother of the 22-year-old artiste, revealed that the health condition began during preparations for the naming ceremony of Destiny Boy’s first child in late 2024. She explained that her son started experiencing sudden seizure-like episodes, which doctors and traditional caregivers struggled to fully diagnose or cure. (Nigerian Entertainment Today)

Long Battle With “Oku Oru”

According to Saidat, Destiny Boy had been privately battling a condition locally referred to as “Oku Oru,” characterised by episodes where he became stiff and disoriented, similar to epileptic seizures. The family chose to keep the illness hidden from the public for years to protect his rising career and reputation. (Nigerian Entertainment Today)

She said the seizures were intense and unpredictable, prompting the family to seek help from hospitals, churches, herbalists, clerics, and an Ifa priest, Oba Edun Ifayomi, who Destiny Boy reportedly saw as a father figure. The priest had even offered financial support for his treatment and contributed to the naming ceremony arrangements. (Nigerian Entertainment Today)

Final Days and Denial of Ritual Claims

Saidat described how, after a trip to Ayetoro, her son’s condition suddenly worsened. Despite efforts to stabilise him at a healer’s compound and later rush him to a hospital, Destiny Boy ultimately passed away on January 18, 2026. (Nigerian Entertainment Today)

She vehemently denied rumours circulating online that her son was involved in money rituals or occult practices, saying such claims were false and harmful. “My son did not do money ritual,” she said, insisting the illness was the real cause of his death. (Nigerian Entertainment Today)

Police Investigations Continue

In related developments, the Ogun State Police Command confirmed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the singer’s death and that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Homicide Section, for further investigation. (Korokoro Africa)

Legacy and Public Reaction

Destiny Boy, born Afeez Adeshina, first gained widespread attention in 2019 with his viral Fuji-styled rendition of Davido’s hit “If” and later released original tracks including “Lamba” and “Gbese.” His sudden death sent shockwaves through the Nigerian music community, with fans and colleagues alike sharing tributes and condolences online. (Nigerian Entertainment Today)