Music executive and talent manager, Ubi Franklin, has firmly denied viral claims linking him to the theft of a luxury wristwatch during Afrobeats superstar Davido’s highly publicised wedding in Miami, United States.
The speculation began circulating on Wednesday after an unnamed blog alleged that Franklin, who was among the celebrity guests, had left the event with a watch that did not belong to him. The claims quickly gained traction on social media, sparking heated debates and prompting Franklin to set the record straight.
In a detailed statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the record label boss described the allegations as “false and misleading,” stressing that they were an unfair attack on his reputation during an emotionally challenging time.
“I am currently aware of the recent circulation on social media linking my name to an alleged theft. I wish to make it clear that these allegations are completely false and misleading,” Franklin wrote.
“Recently, I returned from my dear friend/sister’s wedding and I am currently preparing for my sister’s funeral this coming weekend. It is an extremely difficult and sensitive time for me and my family, but I feel it is important to address this matter directly.”
Franklin recounted that while in Miami, a man identified as Benny approached him with an offer to sell a wristwatch. After examining the piece and confirming its previous ownership, he declined to buy it, citing potential complications. However, during the wedding’s church service, Benny’s brother later delivered another watch, which Franklin agreed to purchase and paid for in full.
According to Franklin, the mix-up occurred because he was briefly in possession of both watches—one that was offered but not purchased, and the one he had paid for and worn during the festivities.
“After the wedding, I had to leave Miami immediately to finalise arrangements for my sister’s funeral. While airborne, I was contacted by Benny regarding the other wristwatch,” he explained.
“I want to state clearly: I am not a thief. I have never stolen from anyone in my life. I purchased a wristwatch and paid in full from Benny. Benny had earlier in the day debunked this news and yet it still kept spreading.”
The statement underscores Franklin’s frustration with how quickly unverified claims can spread online, especially during periods of personal grief. His post has drawn mixed reactions from fans and industry colleagues, with some expressing support and others urging caution before passing judgment.
Davido’s Miami wedding, which drew international attention, was a star-studded affair attended by prominent figures from music, entertainment, and business. The glamorous event has since made headlines for both its opulence and unexpected controversies—this alleged watch theft now among them.
Social media analysts have noted that such allegations can easily overshadow the celebratory nature of high-profile gatherings. In Franklin’s case, the timing—just days before his sister’s burial—appears to have intensified public sympathy from a section of his followers.
As of press time, Benny, the man at the centre of the transaction, is said to have already dismissed the theft rumours. However, the lingering chatter highlights the ongoing challenge celebrities face in safeguarding their reputations in the age of viral gossip.
For Franklin, the matter is not only about clearing his name but also about reinforcing a message of integrity. “My record speaks for itself,” he hinted in his post, while urging the public to resist amplifying unfounded stories.
With his sister’s funeral preparations underway, Franklin is expected to keep a low profile in the coming days, focusing on family matters while allowing the storm around the Miami incident to subside.