Davido’s Friend Igho Ubiribo’s Death Linked to Injection Procedure

The Afrobeats community continues to mourn the loss of Igho Ubiribo, known affectionately as “Tiny,” a close friend of superstar Davido. Months after his tragic passing in Bangkok, an autopsy has revealed the heartbreaking details surrounding his death, bringing some closure to a devastating chapter for those who knew and loved him.

According to findings presented at the Inner West London Coroners’ Court, the 43-year-old received cosmetic filler injections—40 millilitres of hyaluronic acid and lidocaine—at a Bangkok clinic in March. Following the procedure, Ubiribo went for a massage where he began experiencing severe chest pain and lost consciousness twice. He was rushed to Sukhumvit Hospital, where medical staff initially found him responsive. His wife immediately informed doctors about the recent injections, and his London-based physician provided his medical history, which included a previous joint operation, pre-diabetes, and gout. Tragically, the postmortem examination revealed that material consistent with hyaluronic acid filler had entered his lungs. Pathologist John du Parcq confirmed the cellular material found in Ubiribo’s lungs matched the filler used in his procedure, indicating a fatal pulmonary embolism.

The loss hit Davido particularly hard. At Ubiribo’s funeral in Kensington, where the businessman was laid to rest in a gold coffin valued at over $600,000, the Afrobeats icon was among those paying final respects. Davido shared his grief publicly, describing the loss as “heavy” and admitting “it don’t feel real.” The tragedy has sparked important conversations within the entertainment community about the risks associated with cosmetic procedures, with many advocates calling for greater awareness and caution.

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