David Hundeyin is a prominent Nigerian investigative journalist and author known for his fearless reporting and impactful writing. With a background in mass communications and creative writing, Hundeyin has made a name for himself by shedding light on various issues affecting Nigeria and the West African region. From uncovering corporate misconduct to addressing human rights violations, his work has earned him recognition and awards. Hundeyin is also the founder of the West Africa Weekly, a Substack newsletter that provides insightful coverage of politics, business, culture, and society in the region.
Personal Stats – David Hundeyin
| Full Name: | David Inyene-Obong Nugboyon Oluwaseun ‘Dario’ Hundeyin |
| Date of Birth: | May 6, 1990 |
| Marital Status: | Divorced |
| Net Worth: | $200,000 – $400,000 (USD) |
| Birthplace: | Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria |
| Occupation: | Investigative Journalist, Writer, Broadcaster |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Citizenship: | Nigerian |
| Alma Mater: | – Igbinedion University – University of Hull |
Early Life and Education
David Hundeyin was born on May 6, 1990, in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. He attended Atlantic Hall School in Lagos and later Grange School before pursuing a degree in mass communications at Igbinedion University. Hundeyin furthered his education by studying creative writing at the University of Hull, where he graduated in 2011.
Journalism Career and Achievements
After completing his studies, Hundeyin ventured into various roles, including a contract position at KPMG. However, his passion for journalism led him back to Nigeria in 2013, where he began his career as an investigative journalist. Hundeyin’s reporting style, which sometimes involves open-sourced investigations, has garnered both praise and criticism. Renowned writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has described him as a “brilliant” investigative journalist.
Noteworthy Articles and Impact:
Hundeyin’s articles have had significant impacts on society. In one instance, his article for NewswireNGR shed light on the work conditions and treatment of Indian expatriate workers at Globacom, a Nigerian telecom company. Following the publication, the workers received their owed pay, and even India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed appreciation for Hundeyin’s journalism.
Another notable investigation by Hundeyin focused on potential human rights violations associated with a proposed infectious diseases bill in Nigeria’s House of Representatives during the Covid-19 lockdown. This article earned him the People Journalism Prize for Africa.
Controversies and Threats:
Hundeyin’s fearless reporting has not come without challenges. In 2021, he wrote about the rape and death of a woman, alleging the involvement of a hotel owned by the wife of Nigerian politician Godswill Akpabio. Akpabio demanded a retraction, as he believed the publication gave the impression of their complicity in the crime and threatened legal action.
West Africa Weekly
In 2021, Hundeyin founded the West Africa Weekly, a Substack newsletter that provides subscribers with in-depth analysis and insights into the political, business, cultural, and societal landscape of West Africa. Hundeyin’s decision to start the newsletter on the Substack platform was driven by the creative and editorial freedom it offered, allowing him to deliver his content directly to subscribers via email.
Recent Investigative Articles
In 2022, Hundeyin published several investigative articles that sparked intense social media conversations. He delved into topics such as Nigerian presidential candidate Bola Tinubu, tech start-up Flutterwave, and the BBC’s West Africa operations. These reports led to interactions between Hundeyin and the subjects of his articles or their supporters.
James Currey Fellowship Controversy
Hundeyin was announced as The Distinguished James Currey Fellow for 2023, an academic visitor to the Centre of African Studies at the University of Cambridge. However, in March 2023, he was dismissed from Cambridge following an investigation into his conduct during his book launch at Oxford University. Hundeyin was accused of making misogynistic and sexist comments. He later accused Oxford professor Miles Larmer and Kaduna state Governor Nasir el-Rufai of being behind the accusations.
Personal Life and Asylum
Due to threats received after participating in the #EndSARS protest in Nigeria, Hundeyin sought asylum and refugee status in Ghana in 2022. He continues to advocate for press freedom and has alleged political persecution by the Nigerian government.
