THE Edo State Government has issued a firm rebuttal to claims that it barred Afrobeats superstar Davido from entering the state, describing those behind the rumour as “enemies” of the region.
In a strongly-worded statement released on Saturday, the government dismissed the purported ban as the work of an “impostor” and a “fraud”, distancing itself from what it called “spiteful behaviour”.
“Our enemies are at it again; we did not ban Davido from entering Edo State,” declared Prince Kassim Afegbua, the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy.
“The proclaimer of that ban is an enemy of Edo State; an impostor, and a fraud.”
The government moved to reassure the public that Edo remains open to all, regardless of political persuasion, belief or affiliation, and extended an olive branch to the chart-topping musician.
“As a matter of fact, should Davido intend to perform in Edo State in the future, the state will be willing to collaborate and partner with him,” the statement added.
Governor Okpebholo, according to the Commissioner, maintains a balanced rapport with diverse demographics and their leanings. The administration was quick to emphasise Davido’s Edo heritage, noting that his mother hails from the state.
“Davido is one of our illustrious sons… he’s exemplary, and we are pleased to associate with him. Should he wish to visit Edo State, we would happily host and fete him,” Mr Afegbua said.
Addressing recent political tensions, the government sought to downplay any suggestion of personal animosity following events in Osun State during last week’s elections.
“Whatever transpired in Osun State in the wake of last week’s election was purely politics and nothing more. There was nothing personal in the conversations that deepened the campaigns,” the Commissioner clarified.
The government heaped praise on the Grammy-nominated artist, hailing him as one of Nigeria’s foremost global ambassadors.
“Davido is a young man who has remained one of Nigeria’s global ambassadors, doing us proud and building bridges of understanding across the socio-political divides,” the statement read.
“As a government, we are pleased with his conduct, commitment and calculated conquest in the music industry. Indeed, we look forward to him being awarded a Grammy title.”
The administration’s swift intervention appears aimed at quelling any misconceptions about the state’s stance on one of Nigeria’s biggest musical exports, reaffirming Edo’s position as a welcoming home for all.
