What started as a simple visit to Aso Rock turned into a firestorm online. Davido walking into the Presidential Villa with Ubi Franklin and Cubana Chief Priest might have seemed casual, but the internet saw it as something much deeper — and more disturbing. Nigerians aren’t just mad; they’re calling it betrayal.
“They Are APC” — Davido’s Statement That Set It Off
It was the line that lit the match. While introducing his entourage to President Tinubu, Davido proudly said, “They are both your members, sir, they are APC.” Just like that, fans who once thought he was for the people were left confused. When did Davido, known for staying out of overt political alignments, start declaring loyalty on behalf of others?
Some saw it as a power move. Others saw it as a slap in the face — especially after Davido’s recent comments abroad about how “terrible” things are in Nigeria. So why cozy up to the same system you criticized? Opportunism or just smart PR?
Ubi Franklin Faces Backlash And Stands His Ground: “I’ll Do It Again And Again”
The internet didn’t hold back. Ubi Franklin was immediately dragged for smiling next to the president and posting photos from the visit like a trophy. And when Nigerians reminded him of his past political ambiguity, he didn’t flinch. Instead, he clapped back harder.
“If any of you here get the opportunity to meet even your Local Government chairman, I am sure you will be open to it, let alone a president,” he tweeted. Then came the banger: “If I get another opportunity to meet Mr. President, I’ll do it again and again.” That quote has now become the signature line of the controversy — bold, unapologetic, and wildly triggering.
Ubi wasn’t done. He called his critics hypocrites, claiming they’d jump at the same chance if the tables were turned. “I have been abused, misunderstood, and lied against for too long and I no still send una,” he wrote, making it clear that he’s not backing down — and definitely not sorry.
“Kneeling Like A Puppy” — Cubana Chief Priest’s Gesture Ignites Another Debate
Before the Tinubu meeting, Cubana Chief Priest had already drawn attention for kneeling to greet Vice President Kashim Shettima during a separate visit. The video resurfaced immediately, and Nigerians didn’t let it slide. Social commentator Isaac Fayose blasted him, saying: “He was kneeling like a puppy… there’s a huge difference between competency and incompetency.”
To make it worse, Fayose compared him to fashion mogul Seyi Vodi, who stood tall during his own visit — no kneeling, no drama. Cubana’s show of submission was interpreted as more than culture — it was seen as desperation for validation from the political elite.
Cubana Defends Himself With Culture, Hustle, And Swagger
Of course, Cubana didn’t stay silent. In true Chief Priest fashion, he posted a long Instagram clapback, explaining that his kneeling was cultural — a respectful Yoruba tradition he learned from his in-laws. “Me respecting the Vice President by kneeling down is what I learnt from my in-laws the Yoruba to dobaleee,” he wrote.
But he didn’t stop there. He reminded everyone that he’s not just a club guy — he’s an employer, a mogul, a movement. “I served very well before I became the Boss… I have over 700 staff working under my initiative.” Then came the most talked-about line of his post: “Na that thing wey your brother don chop dey hungry me. If na down I go kneel get am, I go kneel scatter.”
That line — bold, defiant, and borderline petty — has since gone viral. To some, it’s confidence. To others, it’s proof that influence now matters more than dignity.
Fans Are Tired — “You Can’t Complain Abroad And Dine With Power At Home”
The backlash wasn’t just about one visit. It was about the pattern — celebrities speaking against the system when it suits them, but embracing that same power when doors open. Nigerians are asking the tough questions: Why do our stars always chase relevance through proximity to power? Why criticize leadership on international platforms only to kneel before it at home?
For many, the visit wasn’t just tone-deaf — it was insulting. It exposed the performative nature of celebrity activism in Nigeria. As long as fame and influence are at stake, even the loudest critics will bow — literally and politically.
Conclusion: When Influence Meets Power, Principles Get Murky
The Davido-Ubi-Cubana visit isn’t just trending news — it’s a mirror to how fame, politics, and perception collide in Nigeria. Whether it’s Ubi defending his access, Cubana kneeling in the name of culture, or Davido aligning with power, one thing is clear: for many celebs, political proximity now outweighs public loyalty.
And if Ubi’s “I’ll do it again and again” is the new motto — then Nigerians better prepare for more photos, more handshakes, and a whole lot more kneeling.
