The Edo State Government has denied reports that it barred Afrobeats singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, from entering the state.
The state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, made the clarification in a statement issued on Friday, describing the reported ban as false.
Afegbua said the government had no involvement in any directive restricting the singer’s movement into Edo, adding that the state remained open to people regardless of their political affiliations or beliefs.
He said, “The Government of Edo State hereby dissociates itself from such spiteful behaviour and wishes to state further that Edo State is home to all, regardless of their belief, political persuasion, affinity or legal affiliation.”
The commissioner further stated that the state would be willing to work with Davido if he decided to perform in Edo in the future.
He said, “Should Davido intend to perform in Edo State in future, the state will be willing to collaborate and partner with him.”
According to Afegbua, Governor Monday Okpebholo had demonstrated an accommodating approach towards different groups and interests in the state.
He also described Davido as one of Edo’s prominent sons, noting that the singer’s mother is from the state.
“Davido is one of our illustrious sons, whose mother hails from Edo State. He is exemplary, and we are pleased to associate with him,” the commissioner said.
Afegbua added that the state would gladly receive the singer whenever he chose to visit.
“Should he wish to visit Edo State, we would happily host and fete him,” he said.
He explained that the controversy involving Davido and events surrounding the recent Osun State governorship election was political and should not be interpreted as a personal dispute.
The commissioner also praised Davido for his international influence, describing him as an ambassador for Nigeria who had contributed to bridging social and political divides.
“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,” Afegbua said.
He added that the Edo government was pleased with the singer’s achievements in the music industry and expressed hope that he would eventually receive a Grammy award.
