The Edo State Government has officially denied reports that it banned Afrobeats star David “Davido” Adeleke from entering or performing in the state. The denial was issued in a statement on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, following controversial remarks made by a government aide.
Government Aide’s Comments Spark Controversy
Kassy Chukwu, the Senior Special Assistant on Digital Media to Governor Monday Okpebholo, had earlier stated that Davido should not expect to perform in Edo State for the remainder of the governor’s tenure. In a Thursday video published on YouTube by Peniel TV International, Benin City, Chukwu went further, suggesting that Davido should be beaten if he were seen in the state. These comments heightened the existing dispute between the singer and the governor.
The controversy stems from remarks Davido made during an interview on News Central TV, where he rejected calls to apologise for his comments about Governor Okpebholo. The singer’s comments followed Okpebholo’s criticism of Osun State 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 Okpebholo accused Adeleke of dancing rather than focusing on his duties.
Commissioner Denounces Ban Reports
Commissioner Afegbua categorically dismissed the ban reports, stating: “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.”
He emphasised that the state welcomes everyone regardless of belief, political persuasion, affinity, or legal affiliation. Afegbua added, “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.”
Davido Described as Illustrious Son
The commissioner further noted that Governor Okpebholo maintains strong ties with people across different demographic groups and political affiliations. He described Davido as one of the state’s illustrious sons, pointing out that the singer’s mother hails from Edo 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,” Afegbua said.
The commissioner also praised Davido’s global impact, stating: “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.”
The Edo State Government’s clarification comes amid ongoing tensions between the singer and the governor, but the state has firmly positioned itself as open to hosting Davido in the future.
