Apostle Kassy Chukwu, the Senior Special Assistant on Digital Media to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, has publicly apologised to Afrobeats star Davido, whose real name is David Adeleke, and retracted his earlier comments suggesting the singer would not perform in Edo State under the current administration. In a video published on Saturday by THEWILL NEWSPAPER via X.com, Chukwu clarified that his original remarks were made entirely in his personal capacity and without any instruction or authorisation from the governor.
Chukwu Clarifies Comments Were Personal
In the video, Chukwu stated: "I didn't do that video as an appointee of the government and I didn't do that video by the instruction of the governor of Edo State or by the permission of the governor of Edo State. I did that video in my personal capacity as a son of the governor who was offended by the video statement that the governor's children should be ashamed of their father."
His initial comments, which implied Davido would not be welcome in Edo State, sparked widespread reactions, prompting the clarification and apology. Chukwu's retraction comes amid heightened public interest in the relationship between the state government and the music superstar, especially following recent controversies involving Davido and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Apology to Governor Okpebholo and Edo People
Chukwu directed his first apology to Governor Okpebholo, expressing concern that his comments may have embarrassed the governor publicly. He said: "I want to apologise to his Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for whatever embarrassment my comment may have caused him. Our governor is a peace-loving governor who does not tolerate violence or threat or oppression."
He also addressed the people of Edo State broadly, stating that his remarks did not represent the views of the state's residents. "My comment, in my personal opinion, did not reflect the opinion of all Edo people in any way. Edo people are loving people and they are accommodating people. I want to apologise to every son and daughter of Edo who have seen my video as disrespectful and not accepted. I want to say I'm really sorry," he said.
Davido Welcome in Edo State
Turning to the singer directly, Chukwu urged him to disregard the earlier statement and assured him of an open invitation to the state. "I apologise to every good-meaning Edo person and to my brother, Davido. I love you. Please disregard my earlier comment. Edo loves you and, of course, you are welcome home anytime, any day, in Edo State. Feel free to come to Edo State," he said.
Chukwu also took the opportunity to highlight the governor's record, citing road construction, improved security, education, and what he described as efforts to revive nightlife in the state as evidence of Okpebholo's commitment to development. The apology video was shared on Saturday, with Chukwu addressing the singer, Edo indigenes, and Governor Okpebholo directly.
Context of Davido's Recent Controversies
Previously, Legit.ng reported that Davido spoke out after reports emerged that the EFCC allegedly directed restrictions on an Osun State Government account reportedly used for the payment of workers' salaries. The development became a major talking point after documents cited in reports claimed that the account had been placed on a "Post No Debit" status. The retraction and apology by Chukwu are seen as an attempt to de-escalate tensions and clarify the state government's position regarding the singer.
