Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has appealed to the residents of Osun State to reject violence and participate peacefully in the forthcoming governorship election, expressing confidence that Governor Ademola Adeleke will secure a second term in office.
Davido, whose uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, is seeking re-election on the platform of the Accord Party, made the appeal while addressing journalists at a press conference in Osogbo on Wednesday as part of the youth campaign mobilisation for the governor.
The singer described the governor as one of the best leaders the state has ever produced, citing his administration’s achievements as justification for another term in office.
“We’re all here for one reason. It’s for the Executive Governor of Osun State, the only Chief Security Officer of Osun State,” Davido said.
One of the best, if not the best governor to ever have ruled this state. We have our projects to show for it. We have our integrity to show for it. We have our diligence to show for it.”
Davido said he attended the event not merely as a celebrity but as an indigene concerned about the future of the state and the role of young people in the electoral process.
“I did feel it was very important for us as the youth campaign mobilisation team to assure our people, our own demographic, which is the youth, of our views on the forthcoming election. I speak to you today not just as Davido, but as one of your own, as a voice for our people.”
Acknowledging the political tension surrounding the election, the award-winning musician repeatedly urged supporters and residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could lead to violence.
“I understand the tension and emotions surrounding this election, but I urge everyone to remain calm. Very important. We’ve been calm for how long? Might as well stay on this, our train.”
Expressing optimism about the election, Davido said the governor had previously won two elections and would emerge victorious again.
“Don’t forget we’ve won this thing twice before. No shaking. We’ve won it twice before and we’re going to win it again for the third time, by the grace of God.”
The singer also called on voters to resist intimidation and exercise their democratic rights freely.
“Let us reject violence. I’ll say it again. Let us reject violence, intimidation, provocation, and most importantly, destruction.”
To every person in Osun, come out and exercise your right to vote. Do not be afraid or intimidated. Your vote is your voice and your choice must be respected. I’ll say it again. Your choice must be respected.
He added, “Let us show the world that Osun people are not only peaceful, courageous, determined to build a better future for the state.”
Davido also made a direct appeal to an unnamed political figure from Imo State, urging him not to allow Osun to become a battleground for political interests.
“And to our daddy from Imo State, I say this with respect, sir. I’ve heard rumours suggesting that there are moves to interfere in the Osun State election or use the state as a political battleground to prove a point.”
I do not present these claims as facts, but I appeal to you, sir, to use your influence to promote peace and allow the people of Osun to choose their candidates freely.”
The singer noted his personal connection to Imo State through his wife, Chioma, saying the appeal was made sincerely.
We have mutual connections and I have a deep connection to Imo State. My wife, Chioma, is from the state which makes this appeal more sincere. Please, let Osun remain peaceful.”
He stressed that democracy should be allowed to take its course, regardless of the eventual outcome of the election.
“Let’s allow democracy to take its course and let the people decide. Whatever the outcome is, please do not allow political ambition to put the lives and future of Osun people at risk.”
Davido further urged political actors to respect the will of the electorate.
“I appeal to you, your supporters, and the entire political party structure. Let the people come out freely, peacefully, to vote for the candidate of their choice.
“If they choose you, let the victory be through their votes. If they choose someone else, let their decision be respected.”
Concluding his remarks, the singer said no political ambition was worth the loss of human lives.
“Politics is temporary, but Osun will be here forever. No political victory is worth violence, destruction, or the loss of a single life.
“To everyone in Osun, please come out, vote peacefully, reject intimidation, and let your voice be heard. Osun is ours, the future is ours, and let peace lead the way.”
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