Veteran Nigerian musician and social activist, Charly Boy, has publicly praised Afrobeats superstar Davido for his bold declaration of Igbo identity, despite backlash from some social media users. The commendation comes in response to a recent online controversy sparked by Davido’s statement, “I am Igbo by blood.”
The controversy began when an X (formerly Twitter) user, @yakbel, criticized Davido for closely associating with people of Igbo descent, despite being Yoruba. The post suggested that such affiliations could lead to betrayal and urged Davido to distance himself from the Igbo community. In response, Davido replied simply but firmly: “Lol, I AM IGBO by blood.”
The statement quickly ignited widespread conversation online about tribalism, identity, and unity in Nigeria—a nation often challenged by ethnic divides.
On May 25, 2025, Charly Boy took to Instagram to express admiration for Davido’s courage. He described the singer’s statement not just as a personal affirmation but as a symbolic act of bridging ethnic divides in a country deeply scarred by tribal sentiments.
“When a man knows who he is, no one can use tribe to divide him. Davido saying ‘I am Igbo by blood’ is not just a statement; it’s a bridge. A reminder that we are more connected than we think,” Charly Boy wrote.
He went further to applaud Davido for challenging societal norms that discourage intertribal unity. Many Nigerians, he said, grow up with rigid ideas about identity—being told to stay within their ethnic group for marriage, friendships, and social decisions. According to Charly Boy, Davido is pushing back against those limits.
“My son, continue to break barriers, not just with music, but with identity. Respect, @davido. Because e no easy to go against the script wey dem write for us. ‘Stay in your lane. Marry your tribe. Don’t cross over.’ But my people, who set the lane? Who draw the border? Who benefit when we dey fight ourselves?” he added.
Charly Boy concluded with a call for a more unified Nigeria where people from different ethnic groups—Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Ijaw, Efik, Tiv, Fulani, and others—can come together in peace and shared purpose.
Davido’s declaration and Charly Boy’s endorsement have sparked renewed discussions on national identity, inclusion, and the role of celebrities in shaping public perception and promoting unity in diversity.
