Reality star seeks reconciliation after two-year feud
Former Big Brother Naija winner Josephine Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has publicly expressed her readiness to apologize to Afrobeats superstar Davido.
This surprising move comes nearly two years after a social media clash that left the reality star feeling “bullied” and “unrecognized” by the global music icon. Speaking during a recent livestream on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, Phyna revealed her desire to “stream” with the singer and mend their broken relationship.
The rift originally began in October 2023 when Davido liked a controversial post on X (formerly Twitter) that described Phyna’s fanbase as “useless.” The action sparked an immediate backlash from the “Phynix” fans, leading the reality star to confront Davido directly online. In a response that went viral, Davido claimed he had “no idea” who Phyna was, further fueling the fire and causing a major split within the entertainment community.
Phyna had previously reacted to the snub with the defiant phrase, “God knows me,” and subsequently unfollowed the singer on social media. However, in her latest appearance, she adopted a more humble tone, acknowledging Davido’s seniority in the industry. She stated that while she is ready to render a public apology, she also hopes for a clear explanation regarding the original “mistaken” like that started the entire saga.
Looking for clarity on the 2023 social media clash
During her address to fans, Phyna emphasized the importance of understanding the root cause of their disagreement before moving forward. She noted that many people interpreted Davido’s original claim of not knowing her as a deliberate act of humiliation. She now suggests that the incident might have been “taken the wrong way” by both parties due to the intense social media scrutiny at the time.
“If I have the opportunity to stream with Davido, I will take it,” Phyna said in Pidgin English during her session. She admitted that the singer “chokes” (is more influential) and deserves the respect accorded to a senior colleague in the business. By offering an olive branch, the Level Up season winner hopes to clear the air and potentially collaborate with the OBO crooner in the future.
The actress also reflected on the “death threats” she allegedly received from the singer’s fans following the 2023 banter. She expressed a desire to move past the negativity that has trailed her brand since the encounter. For Phyna, the goal is to ensure that her political and social standing is not marred by unresolved conflicts with major industry figures like “Baba Ibeji.”
History of tensions with the DMW camp
The tension between Phyna and Davido was further complicated in 2025 by a separate, explosive feud involving Davido’s personal logistics manager, Israel DMW. Phyna had publicly attacked Israel, calling him a “disgrace” and leaking private WhatsApp conversations regarding his estranged marriage. This secondary conflict deepened the divide between the reality star and the DMW (Davido Music Worldwide) camp, making reconciliation seem impossible until now.
Israel DMW has long been one of Davido’s most loyal aides, often referring to the singer as his “savior and president.” Phyna’s decision to “drag” him over his failed marriage with Sheila Courage was seen by many as a direct affront to the entire 30BG (30 Billion Gang) family. This backdrop of hostility makes Phyna’s recent call for an apology even more significant as she seeks to bridge a widening gap.
Industry insiders suggest that Phyna’s change of heart may be a strategic move to reposition her brand as she expands into international media projects. Reconciling with Davido, who is widely considered one of the most supportive figures in the industry, could open new doors for the reality star. Whether Davido will accept the apology or maintain his previous stance of “not knowing” her remains a topic of intense speculation among fans.
Fans react to potential celebrity truce in 2026
The news of Phyna’s willingness to apologize has elicited mixed reactions from supporters of both celebrities on social media. While some “Phynix” fans praised her maturity and growth, critics from the 30BG camp have accused her of “clout chasing” to remain relevant in the new year. Many are curious to see if Davido will respond to the livestream or if he will continue his policy of ignoring domestic social media drama.
The entertainment scene in Nigeria has seen several major reconciliations in recent years, proving that no feud is permanent. If Davido and Phyna were to resolve their differences, it would signal a major shift in the reality TV and music industry dynamics. For now, the ball is in Davido’s court to decide if he is ready to engage with the reality star he once claimed was a total stranger.
As 2026 progresses, the “Year of Peace” seems to be a recurring theme among Nigerian celebrities seeking to start on a clean slate. Phyna’s open invitation for a conversation with the “Feel” singer is a bold step toward ending one of the most talked-about “one-sided” beefs in recent history. All eyes are now on the DMW headquarters for a formal or informal response to this public olive branch.
