Pasuma Praised for Peaceful Performance at Adelabu Rally

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Residents and indigenes of Oyo State have continued to commend Fuji music star Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, popularly known as Oganla Fuji, for what many described as a mature and peaceful performance during the governorship declaration rally of Adebayo Adelabu held in Ibadan on Tuesday.

The event, which took place at Liberty Stadium on May 12, drew a massive crowd as Adelabu formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.

As conversations about the rally continued across the state on Wednesday, many attendees and political observers singled out Pasuma’s performance for special praise, noting that his chants and stage delivery reflected political maturity and respect for democratic values.

Participants at the event said the veteran Fuji artiste maintained a high level of decorum throughout his performance, avoiding abusive lyrics, inflammatory statements, or remarks capable of creating political tension among supporters of rival parties.

The Merit Newspaper reports that several residents who spoke after the event said Pasuma’s conduct stood out because he refrained from insulting political opponents, making derogatory comments against opposition leaders, or uttering statements considered disrespectful to traditional rulers in Oyo State.

“For once, a political gathering featured entertainment without the usual attacks and provocative songs against opponents. Pasuma showed class and professionalism,” one attendee at the rally said.

Others described his performance as a refreshing departure from the often-heated atmosphere that characterises some political rallies in Nigeria, where musicians are sometimes accused of using their platforms to ridicule rival politicians and stir division among supporters.

The rally also featured performances by other entertainers, including Qdot and Rasheed Merenge, who were similarly praised for maintaining composure and focusing on entertainment rather than political attacks.

Observers said the conduct of the artistes contributed to the calm atmosphere at the event, allowing supporters to celebrate Adelabu’s declaration without incidents of hostility or verbal clashes.

Adelabu’s declaration rally had attracted thousands of supporters from across Oyo State and marked one of the earliest major political gatherings ahead of the 2027 governorship contest. However, beyond the political significance of the event, many attendees said the respectful conduct of the musicians, especially Pasuma, became one of the major talking points after the gathering.

As political activities begin to gather momentum in Oyo State ahead of the next election cycle, residents said the peaceful tone set by entertainers at Tuesday’s event should serve as an example for future political campaigns, where issue-based engagement rather than hostility remains essential to sustaining peace in the state.