A Niger Delta activist, Chief Nengi James-Eriworio, has called on Nigerian artistes and celebrities to emulate Afrobeats star, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, by using their platforms to promote credible elections ahead of 2027.
James-Eriworio, former South-South Coordinator of the Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, and Executive Director of the Niger Delta Budget Monitoring Group, made the call in a statement issued on Monday in Yenagoa.
He described Davido as a role model for youths and a true democrat, citing his conduct during the recent governorship election in Osun State.
According to him, despite his family ties to the Accord Party candidate in the state, the singer demonstrated resilience by encouraging voters to turn out en masse and protect their votes.
He said unlike many celebrities who openly take partisan positions and attack opposing candidates, artistes should focus on promoting free and fair elections, protection of human rights and strengthening of opposition politics.
“The conduct of Davido during the last Osun governorship election has elevated him to the level of a statesman. By his action, he has earned the status of a true democrat and a strong voice against electoral crimes,” he said.
James-Eriworio added that Davido deserved national, international and corporate awards for his courage in standing against anti-democratic forces.
He also urged Nigerian artistes to participate actively in voter education and mobilisation to curb vote-buying and electoral violence.
He commended Governor Ademola Adeleke, the people of Osun State, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and security agencies for ensuring that the will of the people prevailed during the poll.
