Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has hit back at Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, over comments on the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, telling the singer to prepare to sign his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, as a dancer after the poll.
During a press conference on Wednesday, Davido appealed to an unnamed politician from Imo State to allow a free and fair election in Osun on August 15, 2026.
He alleged he had heard rumours of plans to interfere in the governorship poll and urged the politician to promote peace and allow Osun people to freely elect their preferred candidate.
Though he did not mention Uzodimma by name, the remarks were widely linked to the Imo governor.
Reacting in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Electronic and Creative Media, *Ambrose Nwaogwugwu*, on Thursday, Uzodimma said Davido should direct his appeal to Osun voters instead of him.
The governor predicted defeat for Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is seeking re-election.
“The reality is that *Governor Ademola Adeleke has, in the opinion of many, failed woefully* in the discharge of his responsibilities. This is why many Osun voters are determined to vote him out in the August 15, 2026, governorship election,” the statement read.
“The signals emerging from across Osun State are clear. There is a growing indication that a significant number of voters have rejected the current administration and are prepared to embrace a new direction.”
Uzodimma further advised Davido to help his uncle prepare for life after office.
“*Rather than attempting to influence Governor Hope Uzodimma through emotional appeals, Davido should concentrate on helping his uncle prepare for life after office*, as the people of Osun appear ready to cast their votes massively in favour of the APC candidate,” the statement added.
In a swipe at the singer, the governor said:
“*Perhaps, Davido should also begin making preparations to officially sign his uncle as a dancer in his musical band*, because judging by the mood of the electorate, he may well be out of a political job after the August 15, 2026, governorship election.”
The exchange comes days ahead of the *August 15 governorship election in Osun State*, where Governor Ademola Adeleke is seeking a second term in office on the platform of the PDP.
The APC is fielding its own candidate for the contest.
