Nigerian singer Davido has publicly appealed to United States President Donald Trump to intervene in the escalating political crisis in Osun State, Nigeria, ahead of the gubernatorial election scheduled for August 16. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on August 11, 2026, Davido expressed deep concerns about potential violence, intimidation, and disruption that could undermine the democratic process.
Davido's Direct Appeal to President Trump
In his post, Davido wrote: "A CALL FOR ATTENTION TO PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP. President Donald Trump, I am calling your attention to the situation in Osun State, Nigeria, as we approach the election. There are growing concerns about tension and the possibility of violence, intimidation, or disruption of the democratic process. Osun people deserve to exercise their constitutional right to vote freely, peacefully, and without fear. I appeal to the United States and the international community to pay close attention to the election and encourage all relevant authorities to ensure that every voter is protected and every vote is respected. We do not want bloodshed. We do not want intimidation. We want peace, transparency, and a free and fair election. @realDonaldTrump"
Davido, who holds American citizenship and was born in Atlanta, Georgia, has spent a significant part of his life in the United States. His appeal comes amid growing tensions in Osun State, where his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating a campaign of terror and violence in the state.
Background of the Crisis
Last week, during a campaign rally in Osogbo, Governor Adeleke called on President Bola Tinubu to rein in former Osun State Governor Gboyega Oyetola, who currently serves as a minister, urging him to desist from spreading violence across the state. Since campaigning began for the upcoming election, there have been reports of violence in various parts of the state, resulting in multiple deaths.
On August 10, Davido posted on X that at least three members of the ruling Accord Party were killed in Ilesa. He also accused the APC of fearing the outcome of a free and fair election. Governor Adeleke also lamented the uncooperativeness of the State Commissioner of Police, which forced the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, to replace the commissioner with a new one.
Election Prospects and Ongoing Tensions
As Osun State residents prepare to head to the polls to elect a governor, Adeleke, who is seeking re-election, is confident of victory, while the leading opposition candidate of the APC, Bola Oyebamiji, is also optimistic about his chances. The situation remains tense, with international attention now drawn to the state's electoral process following Davido's appeal.
