Veronica Imade Adeleke was the mother of David “Davido” Adeleke, a prominent Nigerian artist. She was also the first wife of billionaire businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Adedeji Adeleke.
Background of Veronica Adeleke
Veronica Adeleke was born on November 23, 1963, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. She belonged to the Bini ethnic group, located in the country’s South-South region.
She spent part of her life in Atlanta, Georgia, in the United States. In addition, she lived in Lagos and Ogun States in Nigeria before her passing.
Academic and Career
Veronica was highly educated and held a Ph.D. in an undisclosed field. She worked as a lecturer at Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State.
Though the faculty she taught in remains uncertain, the university renamed its Faculty of Social Sciences after her. The renamed “Veronica Adeleke School of Social Sciences” consists of four departments: Economics, Political Science, Mass Communication, and Social Work.
Passion for Music
Veronica combined her career in education with a deep love for music. She even formed a musical group named “David’s Band” in honor of her son Davido.
The band performed at various events, and her musical passion appeared to influence her son’s interest in the entertainment world. In addition to her band, she reportedly founded a security company named “David’s Security.”
Her Life as a Wife and Mother
She married Adedeji Adeleke in the 1980s and they stayed together for about 15 years. Their union produced two children: Sharon and David, popularly known as Davido.
Veronica was particularly close to her son, a bond made stronger by her husband’s frequent business travels. Davido would later describe himself as a mama’s boy, citing her loving nature and their strong connection.
Death and Its Aftermath
On March 6, 2003, Veronica Adeleke passed away at the age of 39. Her death occurred on her husband’s 40th birthday, and she reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest.
Rumors later surfaced suggesting that her death might have been related to a drug overdose, although the official cause remained cardiac arrest. She died after returning home from a birthday thanksgiving for her husband.
Davido’s Relationship with His Late Mother
Davido has consistently spoken about the role his mother played in shaping his character. Her influence is evident in his personal life and even in how he named his daughters.
His first daughter, Aurora Imade Adeleke, carries her grandmother’s native name. His second daughter, Hailey Veronica Adeleke, was also named in her memory.
Children Linked to Veronica Adeleke
There is ongoing debate over how many children Veronica had. Some sources mention two biological children—Sharon and Davido—while others include stepchildren.
Davido, Her Youngest and Most Famous Child
Born on November 21, 1992, in Atlanta, Davido began his music career in 2009. He gained recognition in 2011 with the release of his debut album Omo Baba Olowo.
Davido’s popular songs include Gobe, Aye, Fall, Assurance, Blow My Mind, Jowo, and Stand Strong. His work has earned him several awards, such as BET, MTV Africa, and The Headies accolades.
Sharon Adeleke, First Daughter and Entrepreneur
Sharon, Veronica’s daughter, is an entrepreneur and founder of Rona Wigs. She is also married to Yomi Ademefun and is a mother of three.
A fitness enthusiast, Sharon is said to be the first child of Veronica and the second child of her father, Adedeji. She runs her business while maintaining a private lifestyle.
Adewale Adeleke, Possible Stepson and Music Executive
Adewale is often referred to as Veronica’s stepson. He has posted images with a different woman he calls “mom,” casting doubt on Veronica being his biological mother.
He is the founder of HKN Music and once worked closely with Davido. He currently serves as a director at Pacific Energy Limited and is married to Ekanem Kani, with whom he has a daughter.
Ashley Coco Adeleke, Reported Stepdaughter
Ashley Coco Adeleke is believed by some to be another stepdaughter of Veronica. Her position in the family is unclear, as sources differ on whether she is older or younger than Sharon.
Ashley lives a reserved life but had a grand wedding with Caleb Adaji in 2016 in Dubai. Some reports suggest she is also Adedeji’s daughter, though her exact maternal lineage remains unknown.
Grandchildren of Veronica Adeleke
Veronica’s legacy continues through her grandchildren. Davido has three children known to the public, two of whom are named in honor of her.
His first child, Imade, was born from his relationship with Sophia Momodu. His second daughter, Hailey Veronica, was born by Amanda, known as Laplubelle.
Davido’s third child, Ifeanyi David Adeleke, was born to Chioma Rowland. There are rumors of a fourth child, Dawson, whose mother is Larissa, but Davido has not publicly confirmed this.
Sharon has three children, which brings Veronica’s known grandchildren count to six. She may also have had grandchildren from stepchildren Adewale and Ashley, though details remain limited.
Controversy Surrounding Her Death
Veronica’s passing drew various speculations. While the official report indicated cardiac arrest, others claimed a possible drug-related cause.
What remains certain is that her death happened on a significant day—her husband’s milestone birthday. The event reportedly occurred after she had returned from a church thanksgiving ceremony.
Life and Legacy of Veronica Adeleke
Veronica Adeleke’s memory lives on not only through her children but also in the university faculty named after her. Babcock University honored her contributions by renaming its social sciences department.
Her devotion to her family and profession remains part of how she is remembered today. Friends, former students, and family still speak fondly of her character and generosity.
Personal Life and Education
She pursued music academically at the University of Lagos, studying the art she was deeply passionate about. Her vocal talents also made her a standout performer in her younger years.
Veronica balanced her role as a musician, lecturer, wife, and mother with dedication. She managed her family responsibilities while keeping her professional commitments intact.
Marriage and Family Dynamics
Her marriage to Adedeji Adeleke brought her into one of Nigeria’s most prominent families. Adedeji is a businessman and the founder of Adeleke University in Osun State.
He has multiple academic qualifications and is a known figure in Nigeria’s education and business sectors. Their relationship spanned about 15 years until her sudden death in 2003.
Impact on Davido’s Career
Veronica is often credited by her son for being the reason behind his drive and creativity. He has acknowledged that his discipline and passion for music were traits inherited from her.
Despite losing her at a young age, Davido continues to honor her legacy.
Article updated 1 week ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
