‘You owe no apology to Muslims’ – Wole Soyinka defends Davido against massive backlash

July 25, 2023

Renowned Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka staunchly defended the popular singer Davido concerning a controversy surrounding his recent video release, which some criticized for allegedly disparaging the Muslim faith.

In the video, accompanied by artist Logos Olori, individuals dressed in traditional white clothes were seen engaged in a prayer similar to that of Muslims. Subsequently, they broke into dance while reciting verses from the Quran.

The Muslim community voiced their dissatisfaction with Davido’s decision to share the video on his Twitter handle and even threatened to take action.

However, Soyinka passionately contended that artistic creativity should never be stifled or manipulated by emotional uproar.

Drawing from past incidents where public figures faced immense backlash for comments revolving around religion, Soyinka emphasized that apologies should not be mandated in instances such as these.

He staunchly opposed the pressure for Davido to apologize on behalf of the Muslim community; he said, “No apology is required; no one should extend one. We must cease burying our heads in the mire of insincere remorse”.

Soyinka eloquently argued that dance serves as a universal form of worship utilized across various religions to seek transcendent experiences.

He valiantly defended the artist’s right to incorporate dance within a religious context, asserting that dancing in front of a mosque should be viewed as an affirmation of spiritual unity rather than an act of provocation.

The Nobel laureate implored individuals to address the underlying issues concerning religion within the nation, specifically highlighting the pervasive appropriation of power within religious sects that often leads to violence and oppression.

Describing instances of religiously motivated violence and unjust detention, Soyinka urged citizens to shift their focus towards these substantial concerns instead of becoming entangled in minor controversies, such as the aforementioned video.

He emphasized the paramount importance of addressing significant societal dilemmas and exercising righteous indignation where it genuinely matters.

He dismissed the criticism facing Davido’s video as mere “distractive piffle” and called upon individuals to concentrate their efforts on more pressing matters plaguing the nation.

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‘You owe no apology to Muslims’ – Wole Soyinka defends Davido against massive backlash

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