Afeez Adesina, the 22-year-old Afrofuji musician known as Destiny Boy, died on January 17, 2026, with the official cause of death now confirmed as aspiration pneumonitis caused by toxic levels of tramadol, methamphetamine, and their metabolites. The autopsy report, released approximately a week before the Daily Trust's findings, was conducted after public outcry over videos showing his body being transported with cotton wool in his nostrils and ears. His family had previously stated he suffered from a long-term illness involving seizures, with his mother, Saida, confirming they sought both medical and traditional treatments. An unidentified associate also released a video claiming Destiny Boy had been battling a private health issue, urging the public to refrain from speculation.
Ogun State Police confirmed the arrest of one suspect, with the case transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Homicide Section. Police Public Relations Officer DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi stated investigations are ongoing while awaiting advice from the Director of Public Prosecution. Destiny Boy rose to fame in 2019 with his Fuji rendition of Davido's "If" and released several original tracks including "Lamba," "One Transaction," and "Lowkey." He and his partner, Iremide, welcomed their first child in November 2024.
The autopsy finding of tramadol and methamphetamine in Destiny Boy's system shifts the narrative from suspected foul play to a possible case of substance misuse, despite earlier claims of a chronic illness. DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi's confirmation of toxic substances contradicts the family's focus on traditional healing, raising questions about what treatment the singer actually received. For young Nigerian artists navigating fame and health, this case exposes the quiet dangers of self-medication and unregulated drug use in the music scene. Without clearer health support systems, more rising stars may follow the same tragic path.
