Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has fired back at Afrobeats superstar Davido, telling him to prepare his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, for a new role as his lead dancer after the upcoming Osun State governorship election. Uzodimma's sharp retort came in response to Davido's public appeal for a peaceful, free, and credible election in Osun, scheduled for August 15, 2026.
Uzodimma dismisses Davido's appeal, predicts Adeleke's defeat
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Senior Special Assistant on Electronic and Creative Media, Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, Uzodimma insisted that the election outcome rests with the voters of Osun State, not with emotional appeals from celebrities. He asserted that Adeleke has "failed woefully" in his responsibilities, a sentiment he claims is shared by many Osun residents.
"The reality is that Governor Ademola Adeleke has, in the opinion of many, failed woefully in the discharge of his responsibilities. This is why many Osun voters are determined to vote him out in the August 15, 2026, governorship election," the statement read.
Signals from Osun point to APC victory, says governor
Uzodimma further claimed that "signals emerging from across Osun State are clear," with a "growing indication that a significant number of voters have rejected the current administration and are prepared to embrace a new direction." He urged Davido to concentrate on supporting his uncle in the face of what he described as an imminent electoral defeat.
"Rather than attempting to influence Governor Hope Uzodimma through emotional appeals, Davido should concentrate on helping his uncle prepare for life after office, as the people of Osun appear ready to cast their votes massively in favour of the APC candidate," the governor stated.
He added, "Perhaps Governor Adeleke should begin preparing himself for a new role as Davido's lead dancer once he leaves office."
Davido's plea for peace
Davido's initial appeal, made on Wednesday, urged political stakeholders to ensure a peaceful election in Osun. Without naming anyone, the singer called on a politician from Imo State to use his influence to prevent interference, citing rumours of attempts to turn Osun into a political battleground.
The exchange highlights the high stakes surrounding the Osun governorship race, with both the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) trading barbs ahead of the poll.
