…..Says emotion overwhelmed him

Nigerian music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has retracted his earlier criticism of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abba, following violent clashes in the state.

The singer had initially accused the police chief of failing to uphold the rule of law during the crisis, which erupted over attempts by sacked local government chairmen—elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC)—to reclaim their positions despite court rulings ousting them.

Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Davido had expressed his frustration at what he perceived as police inaction. However, in a statement released on Monday night, the singer softened his stance, admitting that his earlier assessment was a “grave oversight.”

Davido acknowledged that after reviewing the situation more closely, he realized the state’s security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police, had been working tirelessly behind the scenes to prevent further escalation.

“The bloodshed of today infuriated me so much that I heaped all the blame on the Commissioner of Police,” he stated. “However, I now see that the issue is more complex and extends beyond just the CP or other security chiefs. The needless killings angered me deeply, but I now recognize the efforts made by the security agencies to contain the crisis.”

He further admitted that in the heat of the moment, emotions clouded his judgment, leading him to unfairly criticize the police chief.

“We did not know the Commissioner of Police had been having sleepless nights alongside other commanders. At this point, the contributions of the CP were not fully appreciated by me. This is a grave oversight, and I now acknowledge and appreciate his commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting peace in Osun State.”

He extended his condolences to the families of those affected by the violence and urged security agencies to redouble their efforts in maintaining peace.

“In memory of the dead and the injured, I urge the security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police, to sustain peace. We must allow the rule of law to prevail,” he wrote.

With local government elections set for Saturday, February 22, the singer called on all stakeholders to work towards a peaceful process.

“We must also ensure that the upcoming local government election is held peacefully. Achieving this will be a victory not just for politicians but also for security chiefs, including the Osun State Commissioner of Police,” he added.

Davido concluded by wishing the security commanders success as they navigate the challenges ahead.