The sudden and untimely demise of Destiny Boy, a promising young Afrofuji artist, has left the Nigerian music community in a state of shock and grief. The 22-year-old singer, whose real name was Afeez Adeshina, passed away recently, prompting a homicide investigation by the Ogun State police.
According to the authorities, the case is being handled by the police’s homicide section. The news of Destiny Boy’s death emerged on Sunday, triggering an outpouring of condolences and speculation on social media. While the exact circumstances surrounding his passing remain unclear, his family has revealed that he had been grappling with a long-term illness.
In an online video, Destiny Boy’s mother, Saida, shared that the singer had been suffering from a condition that had “almost driven him mad.” She explained that the family had sought both medical and traditional treatment, but the illness had taken a toll on him, leading to frequent seizures that required physical restraint to prevent him from harming himself.
Destiny Boy, who was known for blending traditional Yoruba Fuji sounds with modern Afrobeat, had gained national prominence in 2019 when his cover of Davido’s hit song “If” went viral on social media. He subsequently released his own renditions of other popular tracks, as well as original compositions, solidifying his place as a rising star in the Nigerian music scene.
The artist’s untimely demise has sparked online discussions and questions from fellow musicians. Ruger, another Nigerian artist, took to social media to express his concerns, stating that there had been “no autopsy” and that the public “just have to accept that he’s dead.”
Destiny Boy’s passing comes about a year after the birth of his first child with his partner, Iremide, in November 2024. The young singer’s death has left a void in the Nigerian music industry, and his fans and peers have been paying tribute to his talent and potential.
As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Destiny Boy’s death continues, the music community and the public await more information on the tragic loss of this promising young artist.
