The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Sam Amadi, has said Afrobeat singer Davido’s appeal to United States President Donald Trump over the forthcoming Osun State governorship election reflects a lack of confidence in Nigeria’s federal institutions.
Amadi made the statement during an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, while reacting to concerns over possible violence, intimidation and electoral malpractice ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
Davido, who is a nephew of incumbent Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, had recently urged President Trump to pay attention to the election, expressing concerns about rising tensions and the possibility of disruptions to the democratic process.
Speaking on the development, Amadi said the decision by Davido to seek international intervention was an indication that many Nigerians no longer fully trust domestic institutions to guarantee a fair electoral process.
“Davido’s appeal to US President Donald Trump for help comes amid concerns over the conduct of the Osun State election,” Amadi said.
He added that the move “reflects a lack of trust in federal institutions and raises questions about the fairness of the election ahead of 2027.”
According to the political analyst, although appealing to a foreign leader over a domestic election is unusual, the situation could be understood against the background of public concerns about the neutrality and effectiveness of some Nigerian institutions.
“Ordinarily, it should be tragic and sad, but considering how the federal institutions have failed, at least to the perception of evenness, I think perhaps the extremity of it could be excused,” he stated.
The Osun governorship election has attracted national attention, with stakeholders calling for a peaceful and credible process as political parties intensify campaigns ahead of the poll.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.