Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has criticised music star Davido over his recent comments directed at the minister, describing the singer’s conduct as disrespectful and unbecoming of a public figure.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Akinola accused Davido of abandoning Yoruba cultural values of respect for elders in defence of his uncle, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in the state.

He said while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to free speech and political expression, public discourse should be guided by decorum and civility.

Akinola argued that insulting political leaders on social media does not strengthen political arguments, adding that such behaviour reflects poorly on individuals with significant public influence.

According to him, Oyetola’s record as former governor of Osun State and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy remains a testament to his service and leadership credentials.

He maintained that the minister’s achievements in public office do not require validation through social media exchanges or celebrity endorsements.

The minister’s aide also criticised what he described as increasing political theatrics within the Adeleke camp, insisting that residents of Osun State are more concerned about governance and economic progress than online confrontations.

Akinola further claimed that the administration of Governor Adeleke has failed to meet the expectations of many residents, alleging shortcomings in governance and economic management over the last three and a half years.

He stated that Oyetola remains focused on his responsibilities at the federal level, particularly in advancing reforms and growth within Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector.

Akinola expressed confidence that voters in Osun State would make their decision based on governance performance rather than social media campaigns or celebrity influence.

He said: “Davido’s freedom of speech is not a license for inherited arrogance,” he said, adding that hurling childish insults at a statesman old enough to be his father doesn’t make him look tough — it just proves he lacks the character and decorum expected of someone with his platform.

“While every Nigerian has the right to political opinion and free expression, it is disgraceful that a public figure of Davido’s stature would resort to crude insults and juvenile theatrics against a statesman old enough to be his father. In Yoruba culture, respect for elders is not optional; it is a fundamental value. Well-brought-up Yoruba sons do not insult their elders on social media because of partisan excitement or family political interests,”