Nigerian Afrobeats singer Adekunle Gold has questioned the state of democracy in Nigeria, saying the country is not currently practising democracy in the way a democratic society should.
The singer made the remarks during an appearance on the One54 Podcast, where he discussed fellow musician Davido’s decision to appeal to United States President Donald Trump over concerns about Nigeria’s democratic process.
Adekunle Gold said Davido’s decision to seek international attention was understandable because of his concerns about the country’s political system.
“I think Davido sent that message to Donald Trump because I don’t think we’re truly practising democracy. We aren’t doing what a democratic society should do,” he said.
The singer, however, expressed hope that the current administration would improve the country’s governance.
“I just hope this administration does better than the previous one,” he added.
The comments have drawn attention because they come amid continued public debate over Nigeria’s democratic institutions, electoral credibility and governance. As a prominent entertainer with a large public following, Adekunle Gold’s remarks are likely to contribute to broader conversations about political accountability and citizens’ expectations from government.
His comments also referenced Davido’s earlier intervention concerning the Osun State governorship election. Davido had called for international attention to issues surrounding voter intimidation, potential violence and the integrity of the electoral process.
The discussion comes as Nigeria prepares for another major electoral cycle, with political parties and potential candidates already positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999 after years of military rule and has since conducted successive general elections. However, concerns over electoral malpractice, political accountability, institutional independence and citizens’ confidence in the democratic process have remained recurring issues.
Adekunle Gold’s comments therefore add a celebrity voice to an ongoing national debate about the quality of Nigeria’s democracy and the reforms needed to strengthen public trust in democratic institutions.
