LagosExplorer reports: Nigerian music executive and talent manager Ubi Franklin has broken his silence over viral claims that he stole a luxury wristwatch during superstar singer Davido’s high-profile wedding in Miami, USA. The allegation, which spread rapidly across social media on Tuesday, August 12, sparked heated debates among fans and entertainment watchers.
Franklin, known for managing top African artistes and for his close friendship with Davido, took to his official X account to categorically deny the accusation, describing it as “false, misleading and hurtful.” He explained that the watch in question had been offered to him by a man identified as Benny, but he initially declined the offer after expressing doubts about its origin.
According to Franklin, Benny’s brother later presented him with a different watch during the wedding service, which he accepted and promptly paid for. However, due to the hectic nature of the wedding celebrations and his own preparations for his sister’s funeral, Franklin unintentionally left the event carrying both the purchased watch and the original one he had refused.
“I am not a thief. I have never stolen from anyone in my life,” Franklin stated firmly, insisting that there was no malicious intent and that he had already taken steps to return the extra watch. The music executive said he only became aware of the theft rumour while on a flight, adding that the narrative had been twisted to damage his reputation.
Benny, the man at the centre of the alleged transaction, has also publicly cleared Franklin of any wrongdoing, confirming that the social media claims were unfounded.
Internationally celebrated Nigerian artiste Davido, who tied the knot with his long-time partner Chioma Rowland in a star-studded Miami ceremony, waded into the controversy with a strong defence of Franklin. “He owes no one an explanation,” Davido posted, calling those peddling the allegations “fools” and warning against attempts to tarnish the joyous memories of his wedding.
The luxury watch rumour trended heavily under hashtags such as #DavidoWedding, #UbiFranklin, and #WatchTheft, drawing thousands of reactions across X, Instagram, and TikTok. While some fans criticised the rush to judgment, others praised Franklin for promptly addressing the issue to protect his brand.
Franklin, a former record label boss and founder of the Made Men Music Group (MMMG), has been in the Nigerian entertainment spotlight for over a decade.