Veteran Nigerian musician and activist Charly Boy has thrown his weight behind Afrobeats superstar Davido, following the singer’s public declaration of his Igbo heritage amid criticism for closely associating with people of Igbo descent.
The controversy began after an X user, @yakbel, criticized Davido for “frolicking” with Igbos as a Yoruba man, warning that such associations could lead to betrayal. In response, Davido replied with a short but powerful statement: “Lol, I AM IGBO by blood.”
This comment sparked widespread debate online, with many praising the singer for confronting the deep-rooted tribal sentiments that continue to divide Nigeria.
Charly Boy, in a statement shared via his Instagram account on May 25, 2025, lauded Davido’s response as a message of unity and strength.
“When a man knows who he is, no one can use tribe to divide him,” Charly Boy wrote. “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. In a country trying to heal from the scars of tribalism, this is the kind of bold unity we need.”
Known for his longstanding advocacy for social justice and national unity, Charly Boy commended Davido for refusing to conform to societal expectations and breaking the tribal stereotypes many Nigerians are raised to accept.
“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 by reminding Nigerians that the dream of a united country lies in embracing one another beyond tribal lines.
“Forget wetin dem tell you — this na the Nigeria we dey fight for: where Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Ijaw, Efik, Tiv, and Fulani fit sit down for same table and chop the same dream.”
Davido’s bold declaration and Charly Boy’s stirring message have reignited conversations on the need for national cohesion in a country often fractured along ethnic and cultural lines.
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.
In a country trying to heal from the scars of tribalism, pic.twitter.com/JAdZeHP5Bu— Charly Boy Area Fada 1 (@AreaFada1) May 26, 2025