Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke referenced titles from Davido's new album 'Oriadé' in a social-media post to promote his re-election campaign [1].
The governor's use of popular music reflects a strategic effort to connect with younger voters and leverage the cultural influence of his nephew, the global music star Davido. By integrating contemporary art into political messaging, Adeleke seeks to shift the narrative away from political opposition and toward a more relatable, cultural identity.
In the post, Adeleke said, “I know who I be” [1]. He utilized a total of 13 track titles from the album to reinforce his message [2]. This approach serves as a direct response to those questioning his leadership or qualifications during the campaign cycle.
“I am borrowing all 13 Oriade track titles to show I’m not scared of the critics,” Adeleke said [2].
The campaign activity comes as the governor prepares for the Osun State gubernatorial election, which was scheduled for Aug. 15, 2026 [3]. The governor is using these references to project confidence and resilience in the face of political scrutiny.
Critics have viewed the move as an attempt to distract from governance issues, while supporters see it as a bold embrace of the state's cultural vibrancy. The governor's strategy relies on the high visibility of the 'Oriadé' project to ensure his campaign remains a central topic of conversation across digital platforms [1].
By aligning his political persona with the themes of the album, Adeleke aims to create a sense of momentum. The integration of these specific song titles is intended to signal a level of fearlessness and self-assurance that the governor believes will resonate with the electorate [3].
““I know who I be.””
The blending of pop culture and political campaigning in Nigeria highlights a growing trend where leaders leverage the global reach of Afrobeats to build brand loyalty. By using Davido's music, Governor Adeleke is not just appealing to a musical preference but is attempting to synthesize political authority with cultural celebrity to neutralize criticism and mobilize a youth-heavy voting bloc.
