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Afrobeats singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has called for a change in the attitudes and values of Nigerians, arguing that the country cannot experience meaningful transformation without a shift in the mindset of its citizens.
The singer made the remarks while speaking on the I Wanna Talk podcast, where he expressed concerns about poor governance, injustice and the economic difficulties confronting many Nigerians.
Reflecting on the 2020 EndSARS protests, Davido said he initially believed the demonstrations would lead to significant changes in the country. However, he admitted that his optimism gradually faded when public attention appeared to move away from the issues that prompted the protests.
According to him, the return to social activities and celebrations shortly after the demonstrations left him questioning whether Nigerians were still committed to demanding the changes they had earlier called for.
Davido Recalls EndSARS Protests
The singer described the EndSARS movement as a moment when he believed Nigerians were united in their desire for a better country.
He said the demonstrations had given him hope that the country was on the verge of experiencing genuine transformation, but subsequent developments left him disappointed.
Davido said, “I was happy to see Nigerians protest during EndSARS. I thought change was coming, but December came and people were partying. Even me, who was initially optimistic about the movement got discouraged. I was like we can’t kill ourselves. We have kids and people we are living for.
“Once the government is bad, there would be hardship. I can’t even advise people who are going through economic hardship because I am not going through what they are going through, even though I have my own struggles, too. What I can say is, Nigeria, fix up. The country has to change from politicians to citizens, everything.
“We can’t change our society until we change our mindset as a people. Today, the same people that were protesting are campaigning for politicians. Those who claim to fight for the people often change when they get power,” he stated.
His comments reflected his disappointment with what he perceived as a decline in the public demand for accountability after the protests.
Singer Criticises Political Inconsistency
Davido also questioned the consistency of individuals who present themselves as advocates for ordinary Nigerians but allegedly abandon their positions after gaining political influence.
He argued that some people who previously criticised poor leadership eventually become part of the same political system they once opposed.
According to the singer, the problem extends beyond those occupying political offices, as citizens also have responsibilities in determining the direction of the country.
He maintained that meaningful progress would require Nigerians to examine their own attitudes and choices rather than placing the entire responsibility for national development on political leaders.
His position suggests that changing the country’s leadership alone may not be enough if the values and behaviour that influence society remain unchanged.
The singer’s remarks also drew attention to the relationship between public participation, political accountability and the need for citizens to remain consistent in demanding responsible leadership.
Davido Acknowledges Economic Hardship
While discussing the economic situation, the musician admitted that he could not fully understand the experiences of Nigerians struggling with financial difficulties because he was not facing the same circumstances.
Although he acknowledged having personal challenges, he recognised that his privileged background meant he could not speak as though he understood the daily struggles of people dealing with economic hardship.
He therefore urged the country to address its problems, stressing that the responsibility for change should involve both politicians and citizens.
Despite his influential background and financial standing, Davido also admitted that he remains concerned about personal safety, highlighting how insecurity and other national challenges can affect people across different social classes.
The interview provided an opportunity for the singer to reflect on Nigeria’s political and social climate, particularly the expectations that followed the EndSARS protests.
His comments have added to ongoing conversations about governance, accountability and the role of citizens in shaping the country’s future.
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