Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has appealed to residents of Osun State to reject violence, intimidation and other disruptive activities ahead of the forthcoming governorship election, urging citizens to participate peacefully in the electoral process and exercise their civic rights without fear.
The singer made the appeal during a youth mobilisation event organised in support of Governor Ademola Adeleke, a video of which was shared on his Instagram page on Wednesday. Addressing supporters at the gathering, Davido described Governor Adeleke as one of the best leaders Osun State has produced and expressed confidence that the governor would secure another term in office.
“We are all here for one reason,” he said. “It is for the Executive Governor of Osun State, the Chief Security Officer of Osun State, and one of the best, if not the best, governors this state has ever had. We have projects to show for it, we have integrity to show for it, and we have diligence to show for it.”
Davido said his message was not merely that of a celebrity entertainer but of a young Nigerian who identifies with the aspirations and concerns of the people of Osun State.
“I speak to you today not just as Davido, but as one of your own and as a voice for our people,” he said. “I understand the tension and emotions that often surround elections, but I urge everyone to remain calm.”
The award-winning artiste expressed optimism about the outcome of the election, recalling previous electoral victories associated with the Adeleke political family.
“We have won this before, and by the grace of God we will win again,” he said. “There is no reason for fear or panic.”
Davido repeatedly urged supporters and other residents of the state to reject violence and all forms of political intimidation during the election period.
“Let us reject violence,” he said. “Let us reject intimidation, provocation and destruction. Every resident of Osun should come out and vote peacefully. Do not allow anyone to intimidate you. Your vote is your voice, and your choice must be respected.”
The singer stressed that democratic participation should be based on persuasion and the free will of voters rather than coercion or fear. He encouraged citizens to remain law-abiding and to cooperate with security agencies and electoral officials during the poll.
Davido also used the occasion to appeal to political leaders and influential stakeholders to ensure that the election is conducted in an atmosphere of peace and fairness.
According to him, he had heard rumours suggesting that some political interests might attempt to interfere in the Osun election or use the state as a battleground for broader political contests. While noting that he was not presenting such claims as established facts, he appealed to those in positions of influence to promote peace and allow the people of Osun to make their choices freely.
“I have heard rumours that there are plans to interfere with the election or turn Osun into a political battleground,” he said. “I am not presenting these rumours as facts, but I appeal to those who have influence to use that influence for peace and to allow the people of Osun choose their leaders freely.”
In a personal reflection, Davido referenced his family ties to Imo State through his wife, Chioma Adeleke, saying that his appeal for peace was motivated by a broader commitment to national unity and harmony.
“I have a deep connection to Imo State because my wife, Chioma, is from there,” he said. “That makes this appeal even more sincere. Please, let Osun remain peaceful.”
He urged politicians across party lines to place the welfare of citizens above political ambition and to avoid actions that could endanger lives or destabilise the state.
“Let democracy take its course and let the people decide,” he said. “Whatever the outcome may be, no political ambition should put the lives and future of Osun people at risk.”
Davido emphasised that electoral victory should be achieved through the ballot box and not through intimidation or violence.
“If the people choose you, let that victory come through their votes,” he stated. “If they choose someone else, let their decision be respected.”
The singer concluded his remarks with a broader message about the enduring importance of peace and democratic values.
“Politics is temporary, but Osun State will remain,” he said. “No political victory is worth violence, destruction or the loss of even one life. Let us protect our democracy, respect one another and keep Osun peaceful before, during and after the election.”
His comments have attracted significant attention on social media, with supporters praising his call for peace and civic participation ahead of the crucial governorship poll.
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