The Edo State Government has dismissed reports that Afrobeat star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has been barred from entering or performing in the state.

The clarification was issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, who described the reported ban as unauthorised and said the government does not support such a directive.

The controversy followed comments by an aide to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Apostle Kassy Chukwu, who had claimed that Davido would not be allowed to perform in Edo State for the remainder of the governor’s tenure.

Chukwu’s remarks came amid a political dispute involving Davido and the governor. The singer had criticised Okpebholo after the Edo governor made comments concerning Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is Davido’s uncle.

Davido had also shared what appeared to be Okpebholo’s WAEC result on social media and later maintained in an interview that he had no reason to apologise over the post.

Afegbua, however, said the position expressed by the governor’s aide did not represent the official stance of the Edo State Government.

He stressed that Edo remained open to everyone, irrespective of political affiliation, personal beliefs or associations.

According to the commissioner, the government would be willing to work with Davido if the singer decides to stage a performance in the state in the future.

Afegbua also described Davido as one of Nigeria’s prominent international entertainers and noted his connection to Edo State through his mother, who hails from the state.

He said the governor maintained cordial relations with people across different political and social backgrounds, adding that the disagreement surrounding the recent political developments in Osun State should be viewed strictly within the context of politics.

The commissioner further praised Davido’s achievements in the music industry and his international influence, describing him as a Nigerian global ambassador who has contributed to the country’s image through his music and career.

He added that the state government had no personal grievance against the singer and would be prepared to receive him should he choose to visit Edo.