Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad has dismissed comments made by afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, regarding the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election as “cheap blackmail.” The statement came after Davido used his X platform to warn that anyone supporting the APC in Osun was an enemy of progress and that lessons would be learned this weekend. Ahmad, a former media aide to President Muhammadu Buhari, criticized the singer’s remarks as politically motivated and inappropriate for a public figure.
Davido’s post, which gained widespread attention on social media, sparked reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape. He stated clearly that backing the APC in Osun meant opposing development and progress, suggesting that the party’s candidates were not aligned with the people’s aspirations. His words were seen by many as an endorsement of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which is fielding Senator Ademola Adeleke in the upcoming election. The singer’s influence in Nigerian pop culture has amplified the reach of his political commentary, drawing both praise and criticism.
Bashir Ahmad, speaking from Abuja, said Davido’s comments amounted to using his celebrity status to pressure voters, calling it a form of “cheap blackmail” aimed at swaying public opinion. He emphasized that every Nigerian citizen, including artists, has the right to express their views, but such expressions should not border on coercion or intimidation. “It’s unfortunate when someone uses their fame to dictate who people should vote for,” Ahmad said. “Democracy thrives on free choice, not fear or threats.”
The Osun governorship election, scheduled for August 15, remains one of the most closely watched races in Nigeria this year. The contest pits the incumbent governor, Gboyega Oyetola of the APC, against Senator Ademola Adeleke of the PDP. Both candidates have campaigned aggressively, appealing to voters with promises of economic growth, job creation, and improved security. With the state’s economy heavily reliant on agriculture and trade, the outcome could influence policy direction in the South-West region.
Davido’s involvement has added a new dimension to the campaign, as his large fan base, especially among the youth, may sway voter sentiment. While some see his intervention as a positive step toward civic engagement, others argue that celebrities should refrain from overt political endorsements. The National Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to comment on the matter, but observers note that such high-profile statements may intensify pre-election tensions.
As the election approaches, political parties are ramping up their efforts to mobilize support. The APC has accused the PDP of leveraging celebrity endorsements to gain unfair advantage, while the PDP defends Davido’s right to speak freely. Regardless of the controversy, the August 15 poll will test Nigeria’s democratic resilience and the role of public figures in shaping electoral outcomes.
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