Davido breaks silence on his ties with Hushpuppi, the Nigerian socialite now jailed in the U.S. for internet fraud, says he never knew about the crimes.
In a recent podcast interview, the Afrobeats sensation spoke candidly about the controversial figure. He admitted they were friends but insisted he did not know Hushpuppi’s criminal lifestyle at the time.
“We were cool,” Davido said. “I saw him around. We hung out a few times. But I never really knew what he was doing.”
From Instagram fame to jail
Hushpuppi rose to fame on social media by flaunting a luxurious lifestyle expensive car, private jets, designer clothes, and lavish hotel stays. However, in 2020, U.S. authorities arrested him in Dubai for his role in an international cybercrime network. He later pleaded guilty to money laundering and was sentenced to over 11 years in prison.
Davido said the news shocked him. “I had no idea what was going on behind the scenes,” he explained.
“My prayers go out to him”
During the podcast, Davido also expressed hope that Hushpuppi would be released from prison soon. “He’s coming out soon,” he said. “My prayers go out to him.”
However, Davido made it clear that he wasn’t defending Hushpuppi’s actions. Instead, he pointed to the harsh economic conditions in Nigeria as a driving force behind the rise in online fraud.
Hardship and desperation in Nigeria
“In Nigeria, the struggle is real,” Davido said. “There’s a level of hardship that can push people to make desperate choices.”
He explained that many young Nigerians feel trapped in poverty, with few opportunities to succeed through legal means. In such situations, some turn to internet fraud as a shortcut to wealth.
“Some people just want to enjoy life for a few years, even if it means ending up in jail,” Davido said. “They’re like, ‘Let me ball for two years, then I’m good.’ That’s the mindset some people have.”
No excuses, but understanding
He added that he doesn’t support such choices but understands where the desperation comes from.
“I’m not making excuses for anyone,” he said. “But I know what it’s like to see people suffer. The system is broken. People are trying to survive.”
Davido also reflected on the kind of lifestyle Hushpuppi lived before his arrest. “He lived well, no doubt,” he said. “He enjoyed the good things of life. But to me, it’s not worth it. It’s not worth being locked up.”
Choosing a different path
The singer, who leads the DMW label and is popularly known as the “30 Billion Gang” boss, said his focus remains on hard work and avoiding trouble. He urged young Nigerians to avoid illegal paths and instead chase success through honest means.
“There’s a lot of pressure on the youth,” Davido admitted. “But there are other ways to make it. It may take longer, but it’s safer.”
The illusion of social media wealth
Davido also used the opportunity to share a broader message about fame and wealth in the digital age. He warned that social media often presents a false picture of reality, leading many to believe that luxury is the only way to be successful.
“People see flashy cars and money on Instagram and think that’s the goal,” he said. “But you don’t know what’s going on behind the scenes. Some people are doing bad things just to post a picture.”
“Build something real”
He advised his fans not to be fooled by appearances. “Focus on yourself. Build something real. Stay out of trouble,” he urged.
The conversation around Hushpuppi continues to stir debate in Nigeria, especially among the country’s young and internet-savvy population. While some still admire his rise from humble beginnings to global attention, others see his fall as a cautionary tale.
Final word: “freedom is everything”
For Davido, the story is personal. He knew Hushpuppi. He shared moments with him. But now, he says he’s learned a lesson.
“Let’s be real,” Davido concluded. “At the end of the day, freedom is everything. It’s not worth losing that just to shine for a few years.”
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