Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Damini Ogulu, widely known as Burna Boy, made headlines after disclosing his surprising decision to decline a $5 million performance deal in Dubai due to the stringent anti-weed laws in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The Grammy-winning artist candidly revealed that he turned down the lucrative offer because the Emirati law prohibits smoking in public spaces such as parks and beaches, a restriction he couldn’t abide by.
In his statement, Burna Boy expressed,
Just now I turned down Dubai money, 5 million dollars na small thing cos me I no dey like to dey go where Dem no go gree allow me to smoke Igbo.”
His statement sparked diverse reactions, with some defending his choice. Comments poured in from fans and critics alike, expressing varying opinions on Burna Boy’s decision. One fan, I Am King Katt, sympathetically remarked, “Chile I would have been sober as hell for that 5m.” Meanwhile, others debated the impact of addiction and personal freedoms in differentiating views.
Notably, Burna Boy’s stance on weed is not a novel subject. He had previously advocated for the legalization of marijuana in Nigeria, citing hypocrisy as the primary reason behind the lack of legislation.
The story doesn’t end there. Recent reports hinted at Burna Boy’s burgeoning relationship with Kenyan socialite Vera Sidika. Speculation grew after images and videos circulated online, featuring the duo in Burna Boy’s Lagos mansion and Vera sitting in the singer’s Lamborghini.
However, this news comes amidst Vera Sidika’s recent separation from her child’s father, Brown Mauzo. Previously, Vera had denied any romantic involvement with Burna Boy in 2020 when they were linked after sharing similar social media posts.The viral photos of Burna Boy and Vera Sidika together have elicited various reactions from fans, many acknowledging Burna Boy’s affection for women with curvaceous figures.
The Grammy-winning artist has been previously linked with British rapper Stefflon Don and Big Brother Naija star Nengi Hampson, among other rumoured romantic involvements.
Burna Boy continues to stir up discussions not only for his music but also for his personal life, as his relationships and controversial decisions remain in the public eye.
