Rarara, Davido Clash Over World Cup Advocacy on Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren

By Margaret Abah

Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and renowned Hausa singer Dauda Kahutu Rarara have engaged in a war of words over the singer's campaign to draw global attention to the plight of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.

The disagreement followed Davido's appearance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert in Los Angeles on June 10, where he wore a customised jacket bearing the inscription, "Bring Them Home," alongside the names of more than 40 schoolchildren and teachers abducted on May 15 in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

While some of the victims were killed during the attack, others remain in captivity despite ongoing efforts to secure their release.

During the performance, Davido used the international platform to highlight Nigeria's insecurity challenges, a move that attracted commendation from several Nigerians, including former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

However, Rarara criticised the gesture, describing it as harmful to the country's image.

In a video shared on his verified Facebook page, the APC-aligned musician said Davido's action amounted to projecting Nigeria's security challenges to the world in a manner capable of damaging the country's reputation.

He questioned the motive behind displaying the names of the abducted victims abroad and alleged that the Afrobeats singer was attempting to score political points because his uncle is contesting an election on the platform of the Accord Party.

Rarara argued that insecurity should not be used as a campaign tool and maintained that sensitive security matters require proper understanding before being discussed publicly.

According to him, the abduction of the schoolchildren followed the arrest of some terrorists and efforts by criminal elements to force negotiations with the authorities.

He further claimed that President Bola Tinubu and security agencies had vowed not to release the suspects and were working towards rescuing the victims when Davido made the advocacy gesture.

Responding on X, Davido mocked Rarara by referring to him as "Debidooo," an apparent play on the Hausa pronunciation of his name.

Rarara replied with the phrase, "Kashiga taitayinka," a derogatory Hausa expression urging the singer to regain his senses.

Davido fired back in Hausa, saying, "If only you had knowledge, I would have spoken with you, but you know nothing."

The exchange has since generated reactions on social media, with supporters of both entertainers debating whether drawing international attention to insecurity helps or harms Nigeria's image.