Davido Says Nigerians Who Fight for Change Often Change After Gaining Power

Afrobeats singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has criticised Nigeria’s political culture, saying some people who campaign for change later abandon their principles when they gain power.

The singer shared his views during an episode of the I Wanna Talk podcast. He reflected on the 2020 #EndSARS protests and explained why he became discouraged about the possibility of meaningful change in Nigeria.

Davido also expressed concern about bad governance, injustice and the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians. He called for changes in both political leadership and citizens’ attitudes.

Davido Reflects on the #EndSARS Protests

Davido said he initially felt optimistic when Nigerians took to the streets during the #EndSARS protests in October 2020.

The protests began as a movement against police brutality, particularly the activities of the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Demonstrators also demanded greater accountability from the authorities.

However, Davido said his optimism gradually faded as public attention shifted away from the movement.

He recalled expecting the protests to lead to lasting changes. Instead, he felt that the country had returned to its usual patterns.

Speaking on the podcast, he said:

“I was happy to see Nigerians protest during EndSARS. I thought change was coming, but December came and people were partying.”

He added that he eventually became discouraged and began to question whether people could continue making sacrifices for a movement that did not appear to deliver the changes they wanted.

Singer Questions Political Loyalty After Elections

Davido also criticised what he sees as a recurring problem in Nigerian politics.

According to the singer, some people who initially campaign against poor governance later seek political power themselves. He argued that their positions can change once they become part of the system they previously criticised.

He said:

“Those who claim to fight for the people often change when they get power.”

The singer’s comments raise questions about political accountability and whether people maintain their principles after gaining influence.

His remarks also reflect wider public concerns about politicians who promise reforms during campaigns but face criticism over their actions after taking office.

Davido Says Economic Hardship Makes Advice Difficult

The singer acknowledged that his privileged background makes it difficult for him to fully understand the financial struggles experienced by many Nigerians.

He said he could not easily advise people facing economic hardship because he was not experiencing the same difficulties, although he also had personal challenges.

His comments highlighted the difference between the experiences of wealthy public figures and those of ordinary citizens struggling to meet daily expenses.

Davido’s remarks also suggested that people should be careful when offering advice about financial hardship without understanding what others are going through.

Davido Calls for Change in Government and Society

Beyond criticising politicians, Davido argued that Nigeria needs changes at several levels of society.

He said improving the country would require more than replacing political leaders. In his view, citizens must also reconsider their attitudes and responsibilities.

The singer stated that society could not change without a shift in people’s mindsets.

His comments placed responsibility on both the government and the public. While leaders must address poor governance and injustice, citizens also have a role in shaping the country’s political culture.

Davido Says Even He Fears for His Safety

Despite his wealth and influence, Davido said he still worries about his personal safety in Nigeria.

He acknowledged that having a privileged background does not remove every concern about living in the country.

The singer’s comments reflected broader anxieties about insecurity and the challenges facing Nigerians from different backgrounds.

He called for urgent improvements and urged the country to address its problems.

Davido’s appearance on the podcast has added his voice to the ongoing debate about governance, political accountability and the future of Nigeria. His central message was that lasting progress requires changes in both leadership and society.