“I Didn’t Know He Was Into Fraud” — Davido Speaks on Friendship with Hushpuppi
Afrobeats megastar Davido has finally opened up about his past connection with convicted internet fraudster Ramon Abbas, popularly known as Hushpuppi, making it clear that while they were once friends, he had no clue about Hushpuppi’s criminal dealings.
Speaking during a candid podcast interview, the “Unavailable” hitmaker shared his thoughts on the controversial Instagram influencer, who is currently serving an 11-year sentence in the U.S. for multi-million dollar fraud.
“Hushpuppi is coming out soon. He lived life,” Davido said. “To me, it’s not worth it to end up locked away. But hey, some people are okay balling for five years, and that’s it.”
Friendship, Not Partnership
Davido emphasized that while they were in the same social circles, he never suspected Hushpuppi was involved in fraud.
“He was my friend. I just used to see him around. I didn’t really know what he was into. But he lived a good life.”
The singer also expressed empathy and offered prayers for his former associate.
Hard Life, Hard Choices
Davido went on to reflect on Nigeria’s economic struggles, which he believes play a role in pushing some people toward fast money and risky lifestyles.
“There’s a kind of hardship in Nigeria where people think, ‘Let me just ball for two years and I’m good.’ People are like that. I don’t support it, but I understand where it comes from.”
Hushpuppi’s Fall from Fame
Hushpuppi, once famous for flaunting luxury and designer drip on Instagram, was arrested in Dubai in 2020. He was later extradited to the United States, where he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder money.
In 2022, he was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison and ordered to pay $1.7 million in restitution to fraud victims.
“Abbas bragged on social media about his lavish lifestyle – a lifestyle funded by transnational fraud and money laundering,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada.
Davido Keeps It Real
As one of Africa’s biggest music exports, Davido’s honesty about hardship, temptation, and regret adds a human layer to his fame. While he doesn’t excuse crime, he does acknowledge the societal pressures that drive it.
And as for Hushpuppi?
“My prayers go out to him,” Davido says. “It is what it is.”
