Afrobeats superstar Davido has been appointed to lead the youth mobilization drive for his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, ahead of the 2026 Osun State gubernatorial election.
The singer, whose real name is David Adeleke, was named the “Youth Campaign Chief” for the Governor’s re-election bid, a move aimed at leveraging the musician’s massive influence among the youth demographic.
The appointment was confirmed in a statement released Tuesday by the Governor’s media office, which emphasized the importance of youth engagement in the upcoming electoral cycle.
”Davido’s role will be pivotal in bridging the gap between the administration and the vibrant youth of Osun State,” the statement noted. “His global reach and deep roots in the state make him the ideal ambassador to showcase the achievements of this government to the younger generation.”
Governor Adeleke, popularly known as the “Dancing Governor,” is seeking a second term under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Since taking office, he has frequently utilized Davido’s star power at public events to bolster his populist appeal.
The “Unavailable” crooner, who has previously been active in his uncle’s political campaigns, expressed his readiness to take on the formal role.
”Osun is my home, and I have seen the progress my uncle has made,” the singer said in a brief social media update following the announcement. “I am ready to mobilize, sensitize, and ensure that the voices of the youth are heard and reflected in the next four years of governance.”
However, the appointment has drawn criticism from the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), which characterized the move as a “distraction” and a “reliance on entertainment rather than policy.”
”Governance is not a music concert,” a spokesperson for the Osun APC said in a rebuttal. “The people of Osun will vote based on infrastructure, security, and economic growth, not based on celebrity endorsements.”
Despite the criticism, political analysts suggest that Davido’s involvement could be a game-changer in a state where a significant portion of the registered voters are under the age of 35.
The Osun gubernatorial election, scheduled for later in 2026, is expected to be one of the most closely watched off-cycle polls in the country.
