Actor and filmmaker Kunle Afod shared a video on Facebook on Wednesday showing the once-vibrant singer lying weakly on a hospital bed. The video, which quickly drew emotional reactions from fans and colleagues, captured a heartfelt exchange between the two entertainers.
“Daddy Fresh must not die – one of Nigeria’s finest artists is in a terrible condition,” Afod wrote in the post, appealing to Nigerians for urgent assistance.
A Struggle for Health and Survival
In the video, Daddy Fresh appeared frail and visibly disoriented, initially struggling to recognise Afod. When he finally did, he expressed deep surprise and emotion, saying, “You’re the last person I could think of… Afod, abi na you God send come?”
Speaking about his condition, the veteran revealed that he has been confined to bed for more than two and a half years, battling multiple health complications.
“My kidney, my liver, neuropathy… my eyes, both of them get issues. I’ve operated on one, but it no dey see again. I no dey see you. I need blood transfusion immediately; my blood level is only 25 per cent,” he said.
He also recounted falling repeatedly due to weakness, showing visible bruises on his face and knees. “If I stand up here now, I go fall, except somebody hold me,” he added.
Facing Eviction Amid Illness
Beyond his health woes, Daddy Fresh revealed he is also at risk of eviction from his apartment. “I have a few days in my house because of the rent. Them don give me quit notice,” he lamented, adding that he was considering selling his remaining possessions just to survive.
The singer, who rose to fame in the 1990s with hits like “Elerugbe Elerugbe” and “Faka Fiki Fok,” suggested that his ailment might not be purely medical, hinting at spiritual attacks. “They just want to kill themselves, not me,” he said, expressing faith that Afod’s visit was a divine sign of hope.
Afod’s Emotional Plea
Deeply moved by the encounter, Kunle Afod donated money to assist the musician and pledged to return soon with more help. In an emotional appeal, he called on Nigerians, entertainers, and the music industry to rally around the ailing singer.
“This is Daddy Fresh. If you know him, you’ll understand what I mean. He was a fantastic artist with a lovely voice. He’s been down with sickness for over three years. We can’t afford to forget him,” Afod said.
He urged his colleagues and fans to contribute financially and emotionally to help the musician get the treatment he desperately needs.
A Long Health Battle
This is not the first time Daddy Fresh’s health has drawn public attention. In February 2024, he told Vanguard that he had been battling a partial stroke for nearly 30 months. Despite his suffering, he expressed gratitude for the rare messages of encouragement he received.
“Each time an unexpected call or message comes through my phone, there’s this relief I get knowing that someone out there remembers me and wishes me well,” he said at the time. “I pray and trust God that this phase will come and go, and I will bounce back better.”
A Call for Compassion
For many Nigerians, Daddy Fresh remains one of the pioneers of modern Nigerian pop music, a voice that shaped the soundscape of the 1990s. His current condition has reignited conversations about the need for stronger welfare systems and healthcare support for ageing entertainers in the industry.
As Afod’s video continues to circulate online, fans and colleagues alike are uniting behind a single message: Daddy Fresh must not be forgotten.