Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has publicly distanced himself from remarks made by an aide that targeted musician David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, over the upcoming Osun State governorship election. In a press release dated August 6, 2026, and signed by Chief Press Secretary Oguwike Nwachuku, Uzodimma said he did not authorise Ambrose Nwogwugwu or any other person to respond on his behalf to comments Davido made at a media briefing.
Davido's Appeal and the Aide's Response
At the briefing, Davido, whose uncle is Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke, described himself as an Imo State son-in-law and appealed to Uzodimma to use his position as Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Chairman of the APC Osun Governorship Campaign Council to promote peace ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election. Nwogwugwu responded by calling the appeal "emotional blackmail" and told Davido to direct his message instead to Osun voters who would decide the outcome of the election.
Uzodimma said those remarks were Nwogwugwu's personal views and did not represent his position or that of the campaign council. The governor emphasised that he never authorised anyone to respond to Davido's appeal, and that the aide's comments were his own personal opinion.
Uzodimma Clarifies His Role in Osun
The governor said his involvement in the Osun election is strictly as a committed APC member, not as a registered voter in the state. He said the party has consistently called for peaceful, credible, and fair elections, and that canvassing support for the APC candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, is a normal democratic activity.
Uzodimma added that it is common practice in Nigerian democracy for party leaders and members to campaign in states where elections are taking place, even when they are not among the electorate. He reassured Davido that his respect for the musician and for the people of Osun State remains firm, urging him, the people of Osun, and the general public to disregard Nwogwugwu's remarks entirely.
Reason for Clarification
The governor said it became necessary to issue the clarification because some individuals were already exploiting Nwogwugwu's personal comments to cause confusion and misrepresent his stance. He stressed that his position has always been to support peaceful and credible elections in Osun State, and that his role as a party leader does not diminish his respect for individuals or communities.
Davido Reacts to EFCC Freezing Osun Account
Previously, Legit.ng reported that Afrobeats superstar Davido spoke out after reports emerged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (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 EFCC's action has sparked widespread reactions, with many calling for transparency and fairness in the handling of state finances. Davido, who has been vocal about issues affecting his uncle's state, urged calm and called for due process in the matter.
Background: Osun Governorship Election
The Osun State governorship election is scheduled for August 15, 2026, and is expected to be a closely contested race between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Governor Ademola Adeleke, a member of the PDP, is seeking re-election, while the APC has fielded Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji as its candidate.
Political tensions have been high, with both parties engaging in vigorous campaigns. The APC has called for peaceful and credible elections, urging all stakeholders to respect the will of the people. Uzodimma's clarification is seen as an attempt to de-escalate any potential controversy arising from the aide's remarks.
As the election approaches, observers are watching closely to see how the dynamics unfold. The role of influential figures like Davido and Uzodimma could have significant implications for the outcome, and both have expressed commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
