Nigerian Afropop superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has alleged a conspiracy to cancel his highly anticipated December 24 concert, following backlash from his recent remarks about Nigeria’s economic struggles during a US interview.
The artist, known for hits like Skelewu and If, hinted at the plot in a post on X (formerly Twitter), where he addressed his critics and suggested he might opt out of performing in Nigeria altogether.
“Dem say dem go cancel my show because of my interview… Looool I don’t have to perform in Nigeria,” Davido wrote, adding a sharp edge to ongoing debates about his public statements on the country’s economic situation.
In the US interview that sparked the controversy, Davido lamented the poor state of Nigeria’s economy, attributing it as a key reason why many Nigerians in the diaspora are reluctant to return home. The comment drew mixed reactions, with some Nigerians accusing the singer of painting a bleak picture of the country.
While Davido’s fans have rallied to his defense, praising him for speaking truth to power, others have criticized the artist for what they perceive as an exaggerated narrative.
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“Artists like Davido have a global audience and should be careful not to tarnish Nigeria’s image unnecessarily,” said Ayo Badejo, a social commentator. “However, it’s also crucial to recognize that his statements may reflect the frustrations of many Nigerians.”
Others took issue with his remark about not needing to perform in Nigeria. “Davido’s influence comes from his Nigerian fan base. Dismissing them could backfire,” noted music journalist Funmi Adebayo.
Economic analysts have weighed in on Davido’s comments, agreeing that Nigeria faces significant challenges but noting the importance of balanced narratives.
“Nigeria’s economic struggles are real, but solutions require collaboration, not just criticism,” said Dr. Tunde Onanuga, an economist. “Celebrities like Davido, with their platforms, can play a constructive role in advocating for change.”
Davido’s December 24 concert, part of his yearly holiday performance tradition, is a major event for fans and the entertainment industry. Allegations of a plot to derail the show have raised concerns about the intersection of politics, public opinion, and artistic freedom in Nigeria.
“It’s troubling if an artist’s critical views on socio-economic issues could potentially lead to professional sabotage,” said legal expert Tayo Akinlade. “This raises broader questions about freedom of expression in Nigeria’s creative sector.”
Davido, one of Africa’s most successful music exports, has consistently used his platform to address socio-political issues. However, this latest controversy highlights the tightrope many public figures walk between advocacy and backlash.
As the debate unfolds, fans are eagerly awaiting clarity on the fate of Davido’s December concert. Industry stakeholders have called for dialogue and mutual understanding, emphasizing the need to separate personal opinions from professional commitments.
“Music is a unifying force, and we hope this situation can be resolved amicably,” said Obi Emeka, an entertainment promoter. “Davido’s talent and voice are vital for Nigeria’s cultural and economic growth.”
For now, the spotlight remains firmly on Davido, with his next move likely to shape public discourse around the intersection of music, economics, and freedom of expression.