“You’re a small boy who came into politics by accident” - Davido tells ex presidential aide

According to a report by the Punch on Thursday, August 6, 2026, former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad faced widespread backlash on social media after using South African singer Tyla’s Grammy success to taunt Afrobeats star Davido during a heated political exchange over the forthcoming August 15 Osun State governorship election. The argument, which began over politics, quickly shifted into a debate about music achievements and personal influence.

The online clash started after presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga announced that President Bola Tinubu had directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to lift the court order freezing Osun State Government accounts following a discussion with Governor Ademola Adeleke. Davido, whose uncle is seeking re-election as governor of Osun State on the Accord Party platform, reacted by celebrating the development, saying he witnessed the moment firsthand. Ahmad responded by stating that he had saved the singer’s post and would revisit it if the election results turned out differently.

The exchange intensified when Davido suggested that election outcomes could be manipulated and mocked Ahmad’s poor showing in a previous party primary election. In response, Ahmad steered the conversation away from politics by bringing up Davido’s Grammy record, questioning why the singer had failed to secure the prestigious award despite receiving multiple nominations. He also argued that those who expect defeat often begin making allegations of electoral malpractice before voting even starts.

Davido rejected the suggestion that awards alone define success, insisting that his achievements should instead be measured by his sold-out concerts, billions of music streams, worldwide influence, and loyal fan base across different continents. He then launched a personal attack on Ahmad, declaring, "You’re a small boy who came into politics by accident." The singer also accused the former presidential aide of spending eight years in government without making a meaningful impact in his community and maintained that he would continue inspiring young people through his music.

The disagreement took another turn when Ahmad shared an AI-generated image portraying Davido holding a Grammy Award before posting a real photograph of Tyla with her Grammy, using it to continue his mockery. The posts sparked criticism from many Nigerians, who argued that comparing a Nigerian artiste with a South African musician was insensitive, especially amid reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.