Afrobeats sensation Davido has broken his silence regarding his past association with notorious internet fraudster Ramon Abbas, widely known as Hushpuppi, shedding light on their relationship and the broader issue of economic desperation in Nigeria.
In a candid conversation during a recent podcast interview, the Unavailable crooner acknowledged that he had known Hushpuppi but claimed he was unaware of the source of his wealth at the time.
“He was my friend. I’d just see him around — I didn’t really know the details of what he was into. But he enjoyed life, that’s for sure,” Davido remarked as he reflected on their acquaintance.
Hushpuppi, once celebrated on social media for his lavish lifestyle, was convicted in 2022 and sentenced to 11 years in a U.S. federal prison for his involvement in a large-scale fraud scheme. In addition to his prison term, he was ordered by U.S. District Judge Otis Wright II to pay $1.7 million in restitution to two of his victims.
The case, which began with his dramatic arrest in Dubai in June 2020 and subsequent extradition to the United States, culminated in his guilty plea to conspiracy to commit money laundering in April 2021.
Amid swirling rumors about the possibility of Hushpuppi’s early release, Davido weighed in on the conversation, saying:
“Hushpuppi is coming out soon. He lived life, but honestly, it’s not worth losing your freedom. Some people are okay with balling for five years and then calling it quits, but that’s not for me.”
The global music star also touched on the deeper issues that often drive young Nigerians toward fraud, pointing to the harsh economic realities many face.
“In Nigeria, the kind of hardship people endure can push you to the edge where you say, ‘Let me just enjoy life for two years, then whatever happens, happens.’ That’s the mindset of many out there. My prayers are with him,” Davido added.
While distancing himself from justifying fraud, Davido’s remarks have sparked widespread debate on social media, reigniting discussions about poverty, unemployment, and the temptation of quick wealth among African youth.
