Nigerian Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has said he would seek the attention of U.S. President Donald Trump if anything goes wrong during the upcoming Osun State governorship election on Aug. 15. Davido made the remark as political tensions continue to build ahead of the vote, in which his uncle, Gov. Ademola Adeleke of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is seeking a second four-year term.
The singer’s comments, widely shared on social media, underscore the heightened political atmosphere surrounding the election. While it remains unclear whether the statement was intended literally or rhetorically, it has generated widespread debate and renewed discussion about electoral integrity in Nigeria.
Davido, who has been an outspoken supporter of his uncle’s political career, played an active role in the 2022 governorship campaign, using his large global social media following to mobilize supporters. His continued involvement reflects the growing influence of celebrities in Nigerian politics, where entertainers increasingly use their platforms to shape public discourse and encourage political participation.
The Aug. 15 election is expected to be a closely contested race between incumbent Gov. Adeleke and his challengers. Campaigns have largely focused on issues including economic development, infrastructure, education, healthcare and job creation. Political observers view the poll as one of Nigeria’s most significant off-cycle governorship elections and an important measure of public sentiment ahead of future nationwide elections.
Osun State has a history of fiercely contested elections. Adeleke won the 2022 governorship election, but the outcome was challenged in court before Nigeria’s Supreme Court, in 2023, affirmed his victory and brought an end to months of legal disputes. The state has also experienced recurring political tensions, including disagreements over local government administration, making the credibility of the forthcoming election a matter of national interest.
Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has repeatedly assured political parties, voters and observers that it is committed to conducting a free, fair and transparent election. Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, have also pledged to deploy personnel across the state to maintain peace, protect voters and election officials, and prevent violence before, during and after the polls.
Neither INEC nor the major political parties immediately responded to Davido’s latest comments. It also remains unclear whether his reference to Trump was intended as a symbolic expression of concern or a literal call for international attention. Under Nigeria’s electoral framework, disputes arising from elections are resolved through the country’s electoral commission and judicial system.
The election is expected to attract close attention from domestic and international observers, who will be monitoring the conduct of political parties, voter turnout, security arrangements and compliance with Nigeria’s electoral laws. The outcome will not only determine who governs Osun State for the next four years but will also serve as an important indicator of the strength of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the credibility of its electoral process.
