Osun Decides: Faleke Tells Davido to Face Your Music, Leave Politics

Nigerian lawmaker James Faleke has responded to Afrobeats star Davido over allegations that he influenced the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the recent Osun State governorship election. The House of Representatives member for Ikeja Federal Constituency, who publicly supported All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji, dismissed the claims as baseless and challenged the singer to “face his music.” His statement came via a post on his verified X account on Sunday, following widespread social media reactions to Davido’s public criticism.

Faleke emphasized that he had no role in shaping INEC’s decisions or electoral processes in Osun State. He stressed that the commission operates independently and must be allowed to perform its duties without interference from political figures or celebrities. The lawmaker urged Davido to provide evidence if he had any, rather than making unsubstantiated accusations that could undermine public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The controversy began after Davido took to social media to express concern over the conduct of the election, suggesting that behind-the-scenes influence may have affected the outcome. While he did not name Faleke directly in his initial posts, the lawmaker interpreted the comments as targeting him personally due to his vocal support for Oyebamiji. In his response, Faleke maintained that his involvement was limited to advocating for his preferred candidate through legal and democratic means.

As the dust settles on the Osun poll, which saw Oyebamiji declared winner by INEC, political tensions remain high. Critics continue to scrutinize the electoral process, while supporters celebrate what they see as a legitimate victory. Faleke’s rebuttal adds another layer to the ongoing discourse on transparency, accountability, and the role of public figures in Nigerian politics.

The exchange between the politician and the musician highlights how celebrity voices are increasingly being drawn into national debates, especially during elections. While some applaud Davido for speaking up, others caution against spreading unverified claims that can inflame divisions. Faleke’s call for accountability echoes broader demands for responsible engagement in public discourse.

This incident underscores the growing intersection between entertainment and politics in Nigeria, where influential personalities often wield significant sway. As the country prepares for more elections, the need for factual reporting and respectful dialogue becomes even more critical. The coming weeks will reveal whether this clash remains a momentary flashpoint or signals a deeper shift in how Nigerians engage with electoral matters.