Afrobeats superstar Davido has found himself at the center of a heated controversy following his remarks discouraging black Americans, particularly Nigerians, from relocating to Nigeria due to the country’s current economic challenges.
Speaking during his appearance on The Big Homies House podcast, Davido addressed speculations that some black Americans were contemplating leaving the United States in response to the election of Donald Trump as US President. The speculation stemmed from concerns about Trump’s potential policies, which many fear may negatively impact African communities in America.
In his candid response to the issue, Davido stated, “It is not cool back home. The economy is in shambles.” His comment quickly sparked outrage, with critics accusing the singer of tarnishing Nigeria’s image abroad.
Among the notable voices calling for an immediate retraction of Davido’s statement was Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Expressing his displeasure in a post on his official Facebook page, Igbokwe wrote, “My in-law Davido has made me sad by telling the world in America that Nigeria’s economy is in shambles. This is very sad. I will advise him to retract the statement asap. Nigeria made Davido. QED!!!”
Similarly, Bashir Ahmad, a former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, expressed disappointment over the remark. Taking to his official X handle, Bashir noted, “Selling out your country from foreign soil is so disappointing and unpatriotic. Public figures like Davido should know that.
They should act and be seen as good ambassadors for Nigeria wherever they find themselves. @NOA_Nigeria!”
The backlash has reignited debates on the responsibilities of public figures in representing their home countries, especially on international platforms.