R. Kelly’s daughter speaks out: ‘I am well aware of who and what he is’

One of R. Kelly’s daughters has released a lengthy statement addressing the myriad accusations of misconduct against her father, admitting that it’s taken time for her to find the words to express her emotions.

Buku Abi — born Joann Kelly — shared the 600-plus-word message on Thursday via an Instagram story, featuring simple white text on a black background, and explained how the last year has taken a toll on her family.

“Anyone that knows me personally or has been following me through out the years knows that I do not have a relationship with my father,� Abi wrote, citing her father’s “life decisions� as the reason she and her family keep their distance.

The R&B singer has faced accusations of misconduct — including alleged sexual, mental and physical abuse of underage girls, some as young as 13 — for nearly 25 years. But the allegations found new life after Lifetime’s six-part docuseries “Surviving R. Kelly� aired last week. Kelly has repeatedly denied the allegations.

Abi is one of three children born to Kelly and his second wife, Andrea Kelly. Andrea appeared in “Surviving R. Kelly� and shared her own allegations of being abused during her relationship with Kelly.

“The same monster you all confronting me about is my father,� Abi continued. “I am well aware of who and what he is. I grew up in that house. My choice to not speak on him and what he does is for my peace of mind. My emotional state. And for MY healing. I have to do & move in a manner that is best for me.�

Despite her pain, Abi was clear in her support for Kelly’s accusers.

“I pray for all the families & women who have been affected by my father’s actions,� she wrote. “Trust, I have been deeply affected by all of this.�

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