Davido backs youth rehabilitation after Osun poll

Popular Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has ruled out any political ambition, saying his priority is to use his influence and resources to create opportunities for youths in Osun State.

Speaking after the re-election of his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, Davido said he was more interested in youth development, entertainment and sports initiatives capable of taking young people off the streets and providing them with productive opportunities.

The singer, who is the Chairman of the Osun State Sports Trust Fund, disclosed that plans were underway to complete the state stadium project, while efforts were also being made to establish a major recreational centre equipped with football, swimming, tennis, basketball and athletics facilities.

According to him, he was already looking for suitable land for the proposed recreational centre, which he said could attract thousands of youths monthly while providing them with opportunities to develop their talents.

Asked whether he had any future political ambition, Davido gave a straightforward response: “No, I don’t have any.”

He also disclosed plans for a major concert in Osun State after the governor’s inauguration in December, saying the event would provide a platform for young Osun artistes to showcase their talents.

He said a competition might be organised to select local artistes who would perform alongside him at the concert.

The singer said the initiatives were part of efforts to provide young people with constructive alternatives and discourage them from engaging in violence and other destructive activities.

He called for the rehabilitation of youths involved in violence during the election, noting that difficult circumstances could sometimes influence the choices made by young people.

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Reflecting on the violence recorded during the election, Davido commended Osun youths for their conduct in defending the electoral process, saying the outcome had restored hope in the possibility of free and fair elections in Nigeria.

He however, stressed the need for unity and forgiveness as the state moved beyond the election.

He acknowledged that forgiveness would be difficult for members of the Adeleke family, given the pressure and sleepless nights they endured during the election period, but said reconciliation was necessary for the future of the state.

“Forgiving for me is very hard, but it is something we all have to do for the future of Osun,” he said.

Davido also expressed gratitude to the people of Osun State for supporting the Adeleke family and defending their votes from the polling units through the various collation centres