Amid the ongoing legal battles involving American music mogul Sean Combs, also known as Puff Daddy, or Diddy, attention has turned to his associations with prominent Nigerian celebrities. As the sex trafficking and racketeering allegations against Diddy unfold, there is growing speculation about the possible involvement of some Nigerian stars in his controversial lifestyle and activities.
In May 2017, Diddy publicly stated that Nigerian internet sensation Speed Darlington had inspired him, following the viral success of Speed Darlington’s song "Tendrererend." This was followed by a well-publicized interaction in 2021, when Diddy posted a video of himself hugging Nigerian artist Burna Boy in a location he described as a “creative compound” where they bonded over food, music, and creativity. Diddy and Burna Boy had grown closer during the quarantine period, especially after the release of Burna Boy’s Grammy-winning album Twice as Tall, which Diddy executive produced.
Davido was another Nigerian star linked to Diddy, as they were spotted together in a Miami nightclub, raising questions about their relationship in light of Diddy’s alleged criminal activities. Similarly, back in 2015, Diddy met with Wizkid in the U.S., calling him a "young black king" and commending the Nigerian star’s positive energy and success.
Tiwa Savage, one of Nigeria’s biggest female music exports, also had an encounter with Diddy during a lively Instagram live session in April 2020, during which Diddy promised to visit Nigeria to help promote her music. The interaction drew attention, given Diddy’s wide influence in both the American and African music industries.
Rapper FALZ is another notable Nigerian artist who has met with Diddy. FALZ, known for his socially conscious music, was praised by the American mogul for his hit song "This is Nigeria," which had stirred significant conversation on socio-political issues.
While these associations may seem like mere music collaborations and casual interactions, the nature of Diddy’s current legal troubles has put a spotlight on his network of celebrity friends, including these Nigerian stars. As the case against Diddy progresses, speculation about how deep these ties run continues to swirl, although none of these Nigerian celebrities have been officially linked to or charged in connection with the ongoing investigation. However, the scandal has raised questions about the influence and reach of Diddy’s actions beyond American borders, especially within the African entertainment industry.
Sean Combs, popularly known as Diddy, has been accused of orchestrating a series of illicit and abusive sexual encounters, known as "freak-offs," which are at the core of the federal sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy case. Prosecutors allege that these events involved coercion, drug use, and exploitation, orchestrated by Diddy and his associates.
The 14-page indictment reveals that Diddy managed these encounters in luxury hotel suites, where participants were subjected to abuse and recorded on video to ensure their silence. His former girlfriend, singer Cassie, filed a civil lawsuit last year accusing him of similar abuses during their relationship.
Among the most significant evidence is a video from 2016, reportedly showing Diddy assaulting Cassie during one of these "freak-off" encounters. Diddy’s legal team has denied the allegations, insisting that these were consensual acts between adults. Nevertheless, the government maintains that Diddy used blackmail, threats, and violence to control the victims. The trial is expected to reveal more details as additional witnesses come forward.
