In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria's entertainment industry, Nollywood actor Uche Maduagwu has confessed to accepting a substantial payment to publicly attack and ridicule superstar singer Davido.
A Coordinated Campaign of Online Attacks
Maduagwu made the confession during an interview on the "I Just Want to Know" podcast hosted by media personality Peks Ikeji, also known as Big Peks. The interview was recorded on December 21, 2025, and aired on Peks Ikeji TV's YouTube channel.
The actor stated he was paid the sum of ₦2.5 million specifically to damage Davido's reputation on social media. He revealed this was not a solo act, but part of a coordinated effort involving a group of influencers.
"I want to confess to Nigerians. I was actually paid 2.5 million naira to ridicule and to bring down Davido's brand," Maduagwu said during the emotional interview. He added, "I'm not the only person. We are like five different influencers that were paid."
Apology and Call for Reflection
During the podcast session, Maduagwu issued multiple heartfelt apologies to Davido, explicitly stating that the singer had never wronged him in any way. "He has not done me anything wrong. I want to apologise to Davido. Please forgive me," the actor pleaded.
He explained that his decision to come clean was triggered by a period of deep personal reflection following the recent death of his mother. "I just lost my mom. I've been doing some reflection, sober reflection," Maduagwu told the host, confirming this was his first public admission of the paid trolling.
The actor also made a public appeal to the other influencers involved in the campaign, urging them to come forward and return the money they were paid. He claimed the payments varied among the group, with some receiving ₦1 million and others getting ₦500,000.
Scope of the Attacks and Public Reaction
Maduagwu disclosed that the online attacks were not limited to Davido's music career. The coordinated trolling campaign also targeted the singer's wife and other family members, aiming to cause maximum reputational damage.
While he refused to name the other four influencers involved, Maduagwu insisted that Nigerians already know who they are, hinting at their visibility in the entertainment space.
The confession has sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing disappointment and anger. Social media users criticised Maduagwu for selling his integrity and attacking an innocent person for financial gain.
One user, @mauriceodike, commented: "Useless fellow. 2.5 to bring down a man that did absolutely nothing wrong to you." Another, @NonchalantASF, questioned his judgment: "Wetin you been dey think wey make you accept to fight the man after God's heart."
The controversy emerges against the backdrop of Davido's recent personal success. The singer recently won ₦150 million from a successful bet on Nigeria's 2025 AFCON Group C opener against Tanzania, where he predicted both teams would score.
