A new chapter has emerged in the long-running paternity controversy involving Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, after Anu Adeleke, the teenager at the centre of the claims, shared what she described as an alleged private chat with the singer.
The development followed Anu’s recent public call for a DNA test to confirm her paternity, a move that reignited public interest in a story that has trailed the music star for several years.
Anu, whose mother has repeatedly claimed that Davido is her biological father, took to social media days ago to explain that she is now old enough to seek clarity about her identity. She said her demand for a DNA test was not about money or attention, but about understanding where she truly comes from.
Shortly after her post gained traction online, Anu shared screenshots of what she said were private messages exchanged between her and Davido. In the alleged chat, the singer reportedly denied being her father and insisted that DNA tests conducted in the past had already settled the matter.
According to the messages shared online, Davido told Anu that several DNA tests had been carried out in different locations and that all the results confirmed he is not her biological father. The singer was initially quoted as saying that five DNA tests had been done but later corrected himself, stating that four tests were conducted.
In the same exchange, Davido reportedly assured the teenager that the DNA test results would be made public to put an end to the controversy. He maintained that the issue had been resolved long ago and expressed frustration that it had resurfaced again.
Anu, however, was said to have asked to see the DNA test results herself, saying she wanted personal confirmation as part of her search for identity. Her request, according to her, was based on the confusion and emotional toll the long-standing claims have had on her life.
The alleged chat has since gone viral, sparking widespread reactions across social media platforms. Many Nigerians expressed sympathy for Anu, describing her actions as those of a young person seeking answers about her roots rather than someone chasing fame.
“This is not about clout. Every child deserves to know their real father,” one social media user wrote.
Others, however, questioned the role of Anu’s mother in the situation, arguing that adults should have resolved the issue privately years ago instead of allowing it to play out repeatedly in the public space.
Some commentators insisted that only verifiable DNA evidence, released through proper legal or medical channels, can finally settle the matter. They argued that screenshots of private chats are not enough to end years of speculation and public debate.
“There is too much talk. Let the DNA results be shown clearly and this will be over,” another user commented.
On the other hand, a number of social media users dismissed the controversy altogether, treating it as entertainment. Critics of this approach, however, warned that such reactions overlook the emotional impact the issue could have on a minor.
Calls for restraint have also grown louder, with many urging both parties to handle the matter with care and sensitivity. Several users stressed that Anu’s emotional wellbeing should be prioritised and that the issue should be resolved privately or through appropriate legal means.
The paternity claim involving Davido and Anu’s mother first came to public attention several years ago. At the time, Davido reportedly denied the allegation and stated that DNA tests had shown he was not the child’s father. Despite this, the issue has resurfaced from time to time, often gaining traction on social media.
Davido, one of Africa’s biggest music stars, has often had his personal life in the public eye. The award-winning singer, known for global hits and sold-out concerts, has also faced personal tragedies and controversies that have attracted intense public attention.
In recent years, the singer has spoken openly about the importance of family and fatherhood. He is known to have children and has shared moments with them publicly, further fuelling interest in any claims related to his private life.
For Anu, the renewed public discussion appears to be about closure rather than publicity. In her earlier post calling for a DNA test, she said she wanted to end the uncertainty surrounding her birth and move forward with her life.
Child rights advocates have also weighed in on the issue, reminding the public that matters involving minors should be handled with caution. They highlighted that children caught in paternity disputes often suffer emotional stress, especially when such disputes play out in the public space.
As of the time of filing this report, Davido has not issued an official public statement addressing the leaked chat beyond what was allegedly shared in the messages. It also remains unclear whether the DNA test results he referenced will be released publicly or through legal channels.
Meanwhile, the story continues to trend online, with debates raging over responsibility, privacy, and the right of a child to know their biological parent.