Twenty-three years after the death of popular Nigerian comedian and broadcaster, Gbenga Adeboye, a fresh family dispute has erupted over the paternity of his three children, with his sisters calling for DNA tests to establish their biological relationship with the late entertainer.
As reported by PM News, the controversy followed allegations by Adeboye’s sister, Sayo Adeboye, during an interview on Baba Olomi TV, where she claimed that the comedian identified Igwe as his only biological son before his death.
Sayo, who appeared alongside another sister, Seun, was responding to claims previously made by the deceased’s widow, Omolara, during an interview on the Kasnaty Show hosted by Kolawole Adejojo.
“Brother Gbenga told Bro Femi that Igwe was his only son, but my brother did not come out openly to say it,” she alleged, challenging the widow to make the children available for DNA tests.
“Lara, go and repent. Jesus is coming soon. We need DNA tests; we need to know the real biological child,” Sayo said.
The sisters’ allegations came after Omolara accused members of her late husband's family of abandoning her after his death and interfering with his property. She specifically alleged that her brother-in-law, Femi, took documents relating to a house built by the comedian and later handed them to the family head.
However, Sayo and Seun disputed the widow’s account, making fresh allegations about events surrounding Adeboye’s final illness. Sayo claimed that Omolara once brought an Islamic cleric from Ibadan to perform a ritual and also allegedly gave the comedian tea while he was hospitalised, despite medical advice.
Defending his mother, Adeboye’s son, Igwe, said she suffered depression following his father’s death, adding that she remained in the family home while struggling with the loss. The allegations and counterclaims have not been independently verified, while no DNA evidence has been presented to establish the children's paternity.
Adeboye, popularly known as Funwontan, was a renowned Yoruba comedian and broadcaster celebrated for his radio programmes and entertainment performances.
He died on April 30, 2003, aged 43, following an illness reportedly linked to kidney disease.
Source: PM News
