In the last few weeks, there have been numerous social media reports that Nigerian music star Davido was arrested in Abuja for threatening the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Umar Abba. The reports have triggered enormous debates and fears among the fans and general public. However, after intense investigation, it is evident that the reports were not founded on credible evidence and were likely unsubstantiated.
How the Allegations Started
Reports of Davido's arrest appear to have begun with viral social media posts and blog reports that went viral on various platforms. One of such posts, shared in a public Facebook group with over 94,600 members, claimed that Davido had been arrested in Abuja for attempted murder and threatening a senior police officer.
A typical post read:
"Breaking: Davido arrested in Abuja over threat to Osun state IG, faces prison transfer for attempted murder.".
It needs to be clarified that the post mistakenly used the abbreviation "IG" (referring to the Inspector General of Police), whereas the subject officer himself is CP Mohammed Umar Abba, Commissioner of Police for Osun State. Such an error makes one doubt the authenticity of information being provided.
Davido's Social Media Blunder
The speculations became more heated following a hot social media spat by Davido. In February 2025, with increasing political tensions in Osun State, Davido was upset and took to social media. He directed sarcastic criticisms and insults at CP Mohammed Umar Abba, accusing him of failing to respect the rule of law.
Davido's Energetically-Worded Tweets
In one of his tweets, Davido tweeted:
"Mr Umar Abba Osun State Commissioner u are a disgrace to ur children!! Game on [expletive]!!!! All of us go mad together!! Werey!!!"
On another inflammatory post, he added:
"Mr Commissioner respect the rule of law!!! You are not madder or crazier than us!! Make we all kuku mad!! MEN MOUNT WALAI TO KRF!!! I will post u everyday everywhere Mr man!!! Try me [expletive]."
These defiant claims heightened speculations that he could have crossed the line, which led to the authorities pursuing legal action against him. Nonetheless, no police statement or credible news channel reported that he was arrested.
Davido's Retraction and Apology
Short moments later, the outburst was retracted as Davido went on to apologize. He acknowledged that his emotions got the better of him due to the high-political drama being witnessed in Osun State.
He stated in another post:
"I now understand that the issue is beyond that of the Commissioner of Police or other security chiefs. The unnecessary murders of today outraged me so much that I thought such should have been nipped in the bud. But I can appreciate that the security agencies led by the Commissioner of Police did their best and deserve commendation."
This apology was seen as an attempt to diffuse tensions and mend fences with the Osun State police authorities.
No Credible Evidence of Davido's Arrest
Despite the widespread rumors, there is a complete lack of credible evidence to support the assertion that Davido was arrested.
- No major Nigerian media outlet, including Legit.ng, The Guardian Nigeria, Punch, or BBC Africa, has reported his alleged detention.
- An Africa Check fact-check confirmed that there is no police report of Davido being detained. (Source)
- Different sources indicated that Davido continued with his usual activities, including promoting his upcoming music projects and showing up at public events.
Since Davido is so famous, any real arrest would have been front-page news on credible media outlets. The fact that there are no such stories suggests the accusation is false and misleading.
Political Connections and Why Davido Was So Vocal
It is necessary to understand that, in an effort to get to the bottom of this scandal completely, Davido has political allies in Osun State.
- His uncle, Ademola Adeleke, is the Governor of Osun State, to whom he lost in a bitter election battle in 2022.
- Davido has been a vocal advocate for his uncle's government, frequently defending him against political opposition and security challenges.
- His social media tantrum was triggered by political tensions and alleged police mishandling of some incidents in Osun State.
These factors may have resulted in the viral rumors, as some individuals may have used the incident to spread false narratives about Davido.
The Role of Fake News in Spreading Misinformation
This example shows how misinformation spreads quickly online. In the digital era of today, fake news can:
- Damage reputations of celebrities like Davido.
- Create unnecessary panic among supporters and fans.
- Influence public opinion and political narratives.
It is important that individuals verify news from reliable sources before believing or sharing such news.
Final Verdict: Was Davido Arrested?
No, Davido was NOT arrested in Abuja on charges of threatening the Osun State Commissioner of Police. The rumor is untrue, and no evidence whatsoever is present to support the rumor of an arrest.
Though Davido did engage in a lively online confrontation with the Osun police commissioner, he later withdrawn his remarks and apologized.
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Davido was NOT arrested – the rumor is not true.
✔️ The accusations were made in misleading social media postings.
✔️ There is no reported police arrest or reported credible media account of a detention.
✔️ Davido's outburst was politically driven, but he later on apologized.
Conclusion
This viral report is a reminder of how fast false information can go viral on social media. As fans, media, and the public, it is crucial to use credible sources and fact-check information prior to sharing.
For news on this and other breaking stories, visit Legit.ng and Africa Check for correct reporting.