Afrobeats superstar Davido recently ignited a national conversation following candid remarks about Nigeria’s economic situation during an appearance on the American podcast The Big Homies House.
He described the country’s economy as being in “shambles,” citing issues like poor leadership, a weakened naira, and high fuel prices despite Nigeria’s status as an oil-producing nation.
These comments sparked backlash from various quarters. Political figures like Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, urged Davido to retract his statements, emphasizing that Nigeria played a significant role in his success . Similarly, former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad criticized the singer for making such remarks on an international platform, suggesting it could deter foreign investment.
In response to the criticism, Davido took to social media to defend his position, asserting that entertainers like himself are the “real ambassadors” of Nigeria. He emphasized his role in showcasing the country’s culture and talent to the world, stating, “Y’all mad ’cause we the real ambassadors”.
The controversy also led to reports of threats to cancel his upcoming December concert in Lagos. Addressing these threats, Davido remarked, “Dem say dem go cancel my show cus of my interview… loooool I don’t have to perform in Nigeria”.
This incident has reignited discussions about the responsibilities of public figures in addressing national issues. While some believe Davido’s comments were unpatriotic, others argue that acknowledging the country’s challenges is a step toward seeking solutions.
As the debate continues, Davido remains steadfast in his views, highlighting the importance of honest discourse about Nigeria’s socio-economic realities.
