Presidential aide and public commentator Bashir Ahmad, OON, has publicly rebuked singer Davido over the latter's complaints about movement restrictions during the Osun State governorship election. Ahmad, responding on his official X account (@BashirAhmaad), described Davido's reaction as dramatic and clarified that the restriction was a routine security protocol, not an infringement on civil liberties.
Movement Restriction Was Widely Announced
Ahmad pointed out that security operators had extensively publicised the restriction, which ran from 12 midnight until 6 PM on election day, covering Osun and its surrounding areas. He stressed that such measures are standard during elections across Nigeria and are not unique to Osun.
In his post, Ahmad wrote: "It has been widely announced by the security operators that movement in and around Osun will be restricted from 12 midnight today until 6 PM today due to the election and this is a standard security measure during elections anywhere not peculiar to Osun."
Right to Freedom of Movement Has Limits
The presidential aide further argued that the constitutional right to freedom of movement does not permit citizens to ignore lawful directives from security agencies aimed at ensuring a peaceful and credible election. "So the right to freedom of movement does not mean ignoring lawful security measures put in place to ensure a peaceful and credible election," Ahmad added.
Movement restrictions on election days are typically imposed by security agencies in Nigerian states to prevent vote-buying, ballot snatching, and the movement of armed groups between polling units. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security services usually collaborate to enforce such orders before and after voting hours.
Davido's Influence and Public Reaction
Ahmad's response garnered attention due to Davido's massive public following and the potential reach of his comments on civic matters. The exchange highlighted the tension between public concerns over civil liberties and the operational demands of conducting elections in Nigeria.
Previously, activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore also clashed with Davido over a separate social media dispute, after Sowore criticised Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke's leadership, dismissing him as someone with "nothing upstairs."
The back-and-forth underscores the heightened scrutiny of election security measures and the role of public figures in shaping discourse around them. As the Osun election proceeds, the enforcement of movement restrictions remains a critical tool for security agencies to maintain order, with INEC and security forces working together to ensure a credible outcome.
