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Lagos, Nigeria
Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido has become embroiled in an online spat with a pro-government singer over the kidnapping of schoolchildren last month, adding a celebrity feud to the national security woes.
Davido appeared at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert in Los Angeles wearing a jacket with the words "Bring Them Home" and the names of abducted schoolchildren from Oyo State. The move drew criticism from political praise singer Dauda Kahutu Rarara, who said it painted Nigeria in a bad light and should not have been taken to an international stage.
The backlash against Rarara was swift, with many users accusing him of attacking the singer instead of speaking up for victims of insecurity in his own region. One user noted: "Funny how Rarara found his voice to attack Davido but couldn't find it when northern children were being kidnapped in their hundreds."
Davido responded with a playful jab, posting "Debidoo" on X (formerly Twitter), referencing how his name was mispronounced by Rarara. The post quickly went viral, with many users expressing support for the singer.
The debate highlights the growing tension over Nigeria's insecurity crisis and the role of celebrities in speaking out on national issues. Some argued that Davido's protest was a legitimate expression of concern for the victims, while others contended that international platforms should not be used to criticise Nigeria.
The Oyo schoolchildren were abducted on May 15, 2026, from their school in Oriire Local Government Area. One teacher was beheaded, and the victims remain in captivity despite government promises of rescue.
The controversy has also raised questions about the role of public figures in addressing national issues and whether celebrities have a responsibility to speak out on matters of public concern.