Popular Hausa Singer Criticises Davido

Popular Hausa political singer Dauda Adamu, popularly known as Rarara, has criticised Afrobeats star David Adeleke, also known as Davido, for highlighting Nigeria’s insecurity challenges during the 2026 FIFA World Cup countdown concert.

Davido had performed at the event wearing a jacket inscribed with the words, “Bring Them Home,” alongside the names of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oyo State.

The victims were among 46 people kidnapped during attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.

After the performance, Davido wrote on social media that although he was honoured to perform on the global stage, he remained prayerful for the victims and their families, stressing that he would always represent Nigerians with pride.

Reacting in a video posted on his verified Facebook page, Rarara condemned the singer’s action, describing it as “barbaric” and accusing him of portraying Nigeria negatively before the international community.

According to him, sensitive security issues should not be projected globally in a manner that could damage the country’s image.

Rarara questioned Davido’s motive for displaying the names of the abducted victims during the concert, alleging that the singer might have been influenced by politics and was attempting to discredit the current administration.

He further argued that insecurity should never be used as a political tool, insisting that such matters are complex and require proper understanding.

The singer also claimed that the Oyo abductions were linked to efforts by terrorists to pressure authorities following the arrest of some of their members, noting that security agencies had vowed not to negotiate with the kidnappers but to secure the victims’ rescue.

Rarara maintained that countries around the world often restrict the promotion of sensitive issues that could undermine national interests, warning that some content creators, knowingly or unknowingly, amplify narratives that could aid terrorists or tarnish Nigeria’s reputation.