RismadarVoice Reporters
August 21, 2026
The Edo State Government has denied reports that it banned Nigerian Afrobeats singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, from entering the state.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, the government described the purported ban as the work of an “impostor” and disowned the announcement.
The commissioner said Edo State welcomes Davido, just like other Nigerians, and remains open to hosting the singer.
“Our enemies are at it again; we did not ban Davido from entering Edo State,” Afegbua said.
He described the person behind the purported ban as “an enemy of Edo State; an impostor, and a fraud,” stressing that the state government dissociated itself from what he called spiteful behaviour.
According to him, Edo State remains home to everyone irrespective of their beliefs, political affiliations, persuasion or legal status.
Afegbua said the state government would be willing to collaborate with Davido if he decides to perform in Edo in the future.
The commissioner also described Davido as one of Edo State’s illustrious sons, noting that the singer’s mother hails from the state.
He praised Davido’s achievements in the music industry and described him as one of Nigeria’s global ambassadors who has helped build bridges across socio-political divides.
“Should he wish to visit Edo State, we would happily host and fete him,” Afegbua said.
He explained that whatever transpired between Davido and political actors in Osun State following last week’s governorship election was purely political and should not be interpreted as a personal dispute.
Afegbua further commended the singer’s conduct and achievements in the entertainment industry, expressing optimism that Davido would eventually win a Grammy Award.
The statement reaffirmed the Edo State Government’s position that Davido remains welcome in the state.
