Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has disclosed that he is dealing with personal struggles behind the scenes.
The artist revealed this while reacting to the widespread criticism that followed his recent comments about his fans.
The controversy began after Burna Boy was quoted as saying he “didn’t beg anyone to be his fan” and preferred to have “rich fans,” a remark that triggered a wave of backlash across social media platforms.
Read Also: Burna Boy: Fela Kuti only African artist greater than me
Responding via his Instagram story, Burna Boy insisted that the statement was taken out of context. He explained that he had been joking privately with members of his band and not addressing the public when the comment was made.
“I was joking around with my band about something else, not this situation and y’all have spun it as usual saying ‘Burna Boy doesn’t love his fans,’” he wrote.
The singer went on to say that, despite his global success and public image, he has been battling personal issues privately.
He stressed that he neither seeks sympathy nor expects help from the public, urging critics to “leave [him] alone.”
He added, “If you hate me so much either kilI me or leave me alone. I’m fighting my own battles and I never come out here to look for pity or help. I love who loves me and respect who respects me.”
Beyond addressing the backlash, Burna Boy used the opportunity to call attention to pressing security crises across Africa.
In his post, he joined ongoing pleas for peace in regions experiencing intense violence and humanitarian emergencies.
“Free Sudan, free Congo, free Nigeria,” he wrote, lending his voice to the outcry against terrorism, political unrest, and widespread insecurity affecting several African countries.
Burna Boy’s comments have since generated fresh debate on social media, with supporters praising his honesty and vulnerability, while others continue to fault his earlier remarks about his fanbase.
Some commentators noted that the incident highlights the pressures faced by high-profile artists and the ease with which private statements can be misinterpreted online.
Despite the controversy, the singer maintains that his core message remains unchanged: he values genuine supporters and wishes to be allowed to deal with his struggles without public interference.
