Afrobeats singer Davido has appealed to Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma to “refrain from interfering” in the forthcoming Osun governorship election, urging him to support a peaceful and transparent electoral process.
Uzodimma is the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) national campaign council for the August 15 Osun governorship election.
Davido, whose real name is David Adeleke, made the appeal on Wednesday during a press conference in Osogbo, where he spoke on security concerns and other issues surrounding the election.
The singer, who has declared support for incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, addressed reports alleging that there were attempts to influence the election or use Osun as a platform for political battles.
While stating that he could not confirm the claims, Davido appealed to the Imo governor to use his position to encourage peace and allow residents to freely decide their preferred candidate through the ballot.
“To our Daddy from Imo state. I have heard rumours suggesting that there are plans to interfere in the Osun state election or use the state has a political battle ground to prove a point,” he said.
“I do not present this claims as facts, but I appeal to you to use your influence to promote peace and allow the people of Osun to choose their candidate freely.”
Davido said his appeal was made sincerely, noting his personal connection to Imo State through his wife, Chioma Adeleke.
“We have mutual connection with Imo state. My wife Chioma, is from the state which makes this appeal more sincere…allow democracy take its place and let the people decide,” he said.
“Whatever the outcome is, please do not allow political ambition to put the life of Osun people at risk.”
The singer, who is Governor Adeleke’s nephew and leads the Imole youth campaign mobilisation team, encouraged eligible voters to participate in the election peacefully and ensure their votes count.
He urged young voters and residents to remain calm despite the political tension, while calling on political supporters to avoid violence, intimidation, provocation and actions that could threaten lives and property.
Davido said the group’s decision to address the public was aimed at reassuring young people and encouraging peaceful participation in the electoral process.
Governor Adeleke is seeking a second term on the platform of the Accord Party, with Davido playing an active role in his campaign.
In June, the singer vowed to resist any attempt to manipulate the election, while recently accusing former governor Gboyega Oyetola of political desperation and alleged plans to create unrest in the state.