2026 Osun Guber Poll: Davido, Ex-Presidential Aide Bashir Ahmad Trade Words on X

Nigerian Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad engaged in a war of words on X on Thursday, trading barbs over politics, electoral performance and music accolades.

The exchange began after Ahmad, who served as former President Muhammadu Buhari’s personal assistant on new media, shared a post suggesting he had saved a tweet ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election, predicting that some people would lament if the outcome did not favour their expectations.

Although he did not mention anyone by name, Davido responded directly to the post.

“U got 16 votes bro in STFU!!”

READ ALSO: Davido Urges Peace Ahead of Osun Poll, Backs Adeleke’s Re-election Bid

Davido’s remark referenced Ahmad’s outing in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Gaya/Ajingi/Albasu Federal Constituency seat in Kano State, where the former presidential aide polled 16 votes while the eventual winner secured a commanding lead.

Ahmad fired back by shifting the conversation to Davido’s music career and his record at the Grammy Awards.

“We have talked enough about the number of votes I got in my primaries. Can we now talk about the number of Grammy Awards you have won from your five nominations, David? Fair is fair.”

He accompanied the post with an image of a Grammy Award trophy.

Davido later responded with a lengthy post, dismissing the comparison and arguing that his achievements extend beyond winning awards.

“You measure success by one award. I measure it by sold-out arenas, billions of streams, global influence, and people singing my songs across continents.”

The singer also criticised Ahmad’s political career and his years in government.

“You had government backing and still couldn’t convince enough people to back you in your small constituency.. You’re a small boy who came into politics by accident.. You spent 8yrs with the ex-president and couldn’t make a change in your poverty-stricken community.. We all have different trophies, Bashir. I’ll keep inspiring the young ones and generations to come while you wait for the next government job to get crumbs.”

Ahmad replied briefly, posting:

“Water”

The post was accompanied by a photograph of a woman celebrating while holding a Grammy Award trophy.

Davido has received five Grammy nominations in recent years, including for Best African Music Performance and Best Global Music Album, but is yet to win the award.

Ahmad, an Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), served as a presidential aide during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and has remained active in political commentary on social media.