Nigerian singer Joy Odiete, popularly known as Jodie, has revealed that she has never received a single naira from her hit 2010 single Kuchi Kuchi, despite the song’s massive popularity locally and internationally.
Speaking during an interview on Yanga FM, Jodie said the track which became one of the most beloved baby-themed songs in Nigeria, generated global attention but brought her no financial reward.
In her emotional disclosure, she alleged that her ex-husband, who left her shortly after childbirth, is the one receiving the royalties.
“‘Kuchi Kuchi’ blow worldwide but I no see one naira from that song till today. Na my ex-husband wey abandon me with my baby still dey collect the royalties”, she said.
The singer explained that she personally funded the recording of the song and later hired a lawyer to pursue her royalty rights, but nothing came out of the effort.
“I no dey like tok di mata because no solution. But if e get how you fit help me get my rights back, abeg reach out”, she added.
Jodie and her former husband, David Nnaji, parted ways when their son was just two months old. The relationship ended amid claims from Nnaji that she was “not mentally stable,” a statement Jodie said became even more painful considering she was the one left to raise their child alone.
Her son, now older, was born with conditions linked to cerebral palsy and a rare brain disorder. Over the years, Jodie has spoken publicly about the emotional, physical, and financial weight of caring for a child with special needs.
She told Yanga FM that the journey has been challenging but filled with grace:
She said the experience has had both “good and difficult moments,” but she remains grateful to God and continues to support other parents in similar situations through her platform.
Despite the unresolved royalty dispute, Jodie said she has grown stronger and more confident since the release of Kuchi Kuchi. She also urged fans not to attack her former husband online, saying he has moved on with his life and she is focused on healing and her son’s wellbeing.