The most anticipated event in Nigeria in 2023 was this week's election.
For some people, it was a chance to uproot an entire government and bring in a new one.
For others, it was a fight to save a dying country, while for a further group it was a chance to install someone from their tribe into the corridors of power.
The elections saw massive involvement of the younger generation, with most being first-time voters.
However, there was one missing group: Nigerian musicians.
While a couple of artists, like M I Abaga and Falz the Bahd Guy, got involved, the cream of the crop was unusually quiet.
But the fans noticed. One particular person they had it in for was Burna Boy.
It is common knowledge that Damini (his real name) has made a fortune financially by making music about the state of the nation.
Burna Boy has been vocal, with songs like "Monsters You Made" as well as "20-10-20" topping the list of his activism playlist. People were mentioning this man when the Recording Academy talked about a Grammy award for songs about social change.
What happened to the African Giant?
After days of being dragged by the fans, Burna Boy took to Instagram to defend himself.
He said he wasn't in support of any candidate running for the elections, hence his silence. Most fans are not satisfied with his excuse and continue to drag him, and the next question is: "Should music stars get involved in Nigerian politics?"
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On the one hand, if you are vocal about the injustices of a government and the poor conditions of the people in your country, and so vocal that you make music and financially profit from the situation, you should contribute in some way towards the democratic process and the election of leaders who could change the system.
On the other hand, supporting any candidate during an election could promote division among your fans.
At some point, choosing political sides might begin to breed enmity.
Another reason why musicians should entirely avoid politics is something Burna Boy stated. If a celebrity influences your decision to vote for a candidate and the candidate doesn't deliver, who is to blame?
The celebrity or the musician?
Are we now absolving celebrities from involving themselves in political matters, particularly elections?
No!
Musicians should learn to promote voter inclusion. Encourage people to go out and vote. Encourage people to protect their votes.
And if mandates are ever stolen, speak up! We all have a voice, but the system favours the loudest voices, and sometimes those voices are Grammy Award-winning music superstars.
So should we still be listening to Burna Boy?
Be the judge!
Pictured above: Burna Boy
Source: Twitter
