Popular Maiduguri-based Islamic praise singer, Dan Zaki Yaya
Popular Maiduguri-based Islamic praise singer, Dan Zaki Yaya, has dismissed widespread rumours of his death, describing the reports as false, malicious and intended to tarnish his reputation.
The renowned qasida singer, whose real name is Zaki Dan Yaya, spoke with journalists in Maiduguri on Wednesday after social media posts falsely claimed he had died, with some users sharing his photographs and videos alongside “Rest in Peace” messages.
The singer said the fabricated reports caused unnecessary panic among his family, friends and supporters, many of whom flooded his phone with calls to verify whether he was still alive.
“I am alive, healthy and continuing my work of praising Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings Be Upon Him) wherever I am invited across Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
According to him, the fake obituary was orchestrated by individuals determined to damage his image and disrupt the goodwill he enjoys among his supporters and business associates.
Reflecting on the incident, Dan Zaki Yaya expressed gratitude to God despite the emotional impact of the rumour.
“What saddened me most was the distress it caused my fans, family, relatives and friends. I received countless phone calls from people asking whether the news was true. Imagine people calling you to confirm if you are really alive,” he said.
He alleged that the false reports were likely created by people seeking attention on social media.
“I believe the person who fabricated the story did so simply to gain attention. Nowadays, some people spread fake news just to increase engagement, attract more followers and boost their online presence,” he added.
The praise singer also shared his concerns over the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the creative industry, saying the technology poses challenges for artists and content creators.
While acknowledging that AI has brought technological advancement, he argued that it has also affected livelihoods by making it easier to copy creative works.
Speaking on his experience, Dan Zaki Yaya revealed that copyright infringements involving AI-generated versions of his songs have prevented him from receiving YouTube recognition despite surpassing the platform’s subscriber requirement.
“I currently have nearly 130,000 subscribers, but I have not received my award. I was informed that copyright issues were affecting my channel because many of my praise songs are copied, altered using AI and re-uploaded without my permission,” he said.
On his music career, the Islamic singer explained that he has deliberately reduced the release of solo projects in recent years to create opportunities for upcoming qasida artists through collaborations.
“I’ve been featuring other artists to help introduce them to a wider audience and give them an opportunity to showcase their talents,” he explained, while assuring fans that eight new qasidas would soon be released.
Dan Zaki Yaya also reaffirmed his commitment to producing only songs dedicated to the praise of Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings Be Upon Him), saying he no longer records love, political or other secular songs.
“I realized that nothing compares to praising the Prophet. From that moment, I decided to dedicate myself entirely to qasidas in honour of the Prophet,” he said.
He concluded by thanking his supporters, saying their devotion is ultimately rooted in their love for Prophet Muhammad rather than his personality.
“My prayer is that Allah increases your love for and closeness to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings Be Upon Him). May He reward you abundantly for your continued support,” he said.
