By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Governor Monday Okpebholo administration on Friday said, “like all other Nigerians, we welcome Davido in Edo State,” assuring the music star of the state government’s readiness to receive and collaborate with him.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said Davido remains welcome in Edo State and that the government would be willing to partner with him should he decide to visit or perform in the state.
In a statement issued on Friday, Afegbua said Edo State remains home to all Nigerians, irrespective of their beliefs, political affiliations or persuasions, stressing that the government is committed to maintaining an inclusive environment for everyone.
“Like all other Nigerians, we love and welcome Davido in Edo State,” the commissioner said.
“Our enemies are at it again; we did not ban Davido from entering Edo State. The proclaimer of that ban is an enemy of Edo State, an impostor and a fraud.”
Afegbua said Governor Monday Okpebholo maintains a balanced relationship with the various demographic groups in the state, adding that Davido is regarded as one of Edo’s illustrious sons because of his maternal connection to the state.
“Davido is one of our illustrious sons, whose mother hails from Edo State. He’s exemplary, and we are pleased to associate with him. Should he wish to visit Edo State, we would happily host and fete him,” he said.
The commissioner also said developments surrounding Davido and political actors during the recent Osun State governorship election should be viewed strictly within the context of political campaigns and not as a personal matter.
He said whatever transpired in Osun State was political and should not be interpreted as a personal dispute.
“There was nothing personal in the conversations that deepened the campaigns,” Afegbua stated.
He described Davido as one of Nigeria’s global ambassadors who has contributed to the country’s international image through his music and influence.
“Davido is a young man who has remained one of Nigeria’s global ambassadors, doing us proud and building bridges of understanding across the socio-political divides,” he said.
The commissioner added that the state government was pleased with Davido’s conduct and achievements in the music industry, expressing hope that the singer would eventually win a Grammy Award.
“Indeed, we look forward to him being awarded a Grammy title,” Afegbua said.
