‘We didn’t ban Davido from entering, performing in Edo’ — Information Commissioner

The Edo State Government has denied reports that it banned Afrobeats star David “Davido” Adeleke from entering or performing in the state.

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, denied the reports in a statement on Friday after Kassy Chukwu, the Senior Special Assistant on Digital Media to Governor Monday Okpebholo, said Davido should not expect to perform in the state for the rest of the governor’s tenure.

In a Thursday video published on YouTube by Peniel TV International, Benin City, Chukwu went further, saying Davido should be beaten if he were seen in the state. His comments further heightened the dispute between the singer and the governor.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Davido, speaking during an interview on News Central TV, rejected calls for him to apologise for his remarks about Mr Okpebholo.

The singer made the comments after Mr Okpebholo criticised Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke, Davido’s uncle, during the build-up to the 15 August governorship election.

Davido subsequently posted what appeared to be the governor’s WAEC result on his Instagram Story after Mr Okpebholo accused Mr Adeleke of dancing rather than concentrating on his duties as governor.

He said, “Our enemies are at it again; we did not ban Davido from entering Edo State. The proclaimer of that ban is an enemy of Edo State; an impostor, and a fraud. The Government of Edo State hereby dissociates itself from such spiteful behaviour, and wishes to state further that Edo State is home to all.

“Regardless of their belief, political persuasion, affinity and or legal affiliation. As a matter of fact, should Davido intend to perform in Edo State in future, the state will be willing to collaborate and partner with him.”

Our illustrious sons

The commissioner added that Okpebholo maintained strong ties with people across different demographic groups and political affiliations.

He also described Davido as one of the state’s illustrious sons, pointing out that the singer’s mother hails from the state.

“He’s exemplary, and we are pleased to associate with him. Should he wish to visit Edo State, we would be happy to host and fete him. Whatever transpired in Osun State in the wake of last week’s election was purely politics and nothing more. There was nothing personal in the conversations that deepened the campaigns. 

“Davido is a young man who has remained one of Nigeria’s global ambassadors, doing us proud and building bridges of understanding across the socio-political divides. As a government, we are pleased with his conduct, commitment and calculated conquest in the music industry. Indeed, we look forward to him being awarded a Grammy title,” said the commissioner.