A fresh war of words has erupted ahead of the Osun State governorship election, with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma responding sharply to Afrobeats superstar Davido over comments urging an unnamed politician to stay away from the electoral process.
Davido, who serves as the head of the youth campaign mobilisation team for Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, recently appealed to a politician from Imo State to allow the election to be free, fair and peaceful. Although the singer did not mention any individual by name, he alleged that the politician intended to interfere in the August 15 governorship poll.
Responding through his Senior Special Assistant on Electronic and Creative Media, Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, Governor Uzodimma dismissed the singer’s remarks, insisting that any appeal for a peaceful election should be directed to the people of Osun State rather than to him. Uzodimma currently serves as the Chairman of the APC National Campaign Council for the election.
According to the statement, the governor said he has consistently advocated for peaceful, credible and transparent elections and remains committed to ensuring that the will of Osun voters prevails. He argued that the electorate—not political leaders from outside the state—would determine the outcome of the poll.
The Imo governor also took aim at the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, claiming that many residents believe the incumbent has failed to deliver on his campaign promises. He expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, would emerge victorious in the election.
In one of the statement’s most striking remarks, Uzodimma advised Davido to focus on preparing his uncle for life after government, suggesting the singer should consider giving him a role in his entertainment career if he loses the election.
“Perhaps, Davido should also begin making preparations to officially sign his uncle as a dancer in his musical band because, judging by the mood of the electorate, he may well be out of a political job after the August 15, 2026 governorship election,” the statement read.
The exchange comes amid heightened political tension in Osun State following allegations by Governor Adeleke’s campaign organisation that supporters have been intimidated ahead of the election. The campaign also accused security agencies of arresting and detaining some of its members, claims that have added to concerns over the conduct of the upcoming poll.
Osun voters are expected to head to the polls on August 15, 2026, with Governor Ademola Adeleke seeking another term under the Accord Party (AP), while the APC hopes to reclaim the state’s top political office.
