David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, the Afrobeats star has said the outcome of the Osun governorship election has restored hope in Nigeria’s ability to conduct free and fair elections.
Addressing journalists in Ede, on Tuesday, Davido commended Osun voters, particularly the youths, for standing firm and defending their votes throughout the electoral process.
He said the conduct of the youths had implications beyond Osun, arguing that a different outcome could have further weakened public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.
‘Shout out to Osun youths, you guys really give hope to the people of Osun, you guys gave hope to the whole Nigeria because if this had gone the other way I think Nigeria would have actually given up on what they call free and fair election,’ Davido said.
The Afrobeat star said he had been concerned about possible manipulation by institutions during the election, but expressed gratitude that the people of Osun ultimately stood firm and ensured victory for Governor Adeleke.
‘I have no doubt that His Excellency will win. I just was a little bit weary of manipulations from the institutions. Apart from that, we thank God that the Osun people stood firm and made it happen for us.
‘We came out victorious in this governorship election, to the Osun people, that voted for us and defended their votes from the polling units, all the way to the local coalition centers, the love was there.’
Davido said the governor’s re-election showed that political office holders who work for the people could receive their support in return.
According to him, ‘My uncle, the governor, should be an example to all other government officials out there. It means that if you work well for the people, the people will work well for you no matter what.’
Davido, who is the chairman Osun Sport Trust Fund disclosed plans to support youth development in Osun through sports and entertainment.
He said the stadium project would soon be completed, while plans were also underway for a recreational centre with football, swimming, tennis, basketball and track facilities.
He also disclosed plans for a concert centre and said he wanted Osun youths to perform alongside him at a planned concert after the inauguration.