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I’ve never endorsed any politician, Falz clears up 2023 election rumours

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Nigerian rapper Falz has denied endorsing any politician or party in the 2023 elections.
  • He stated he only encourages voter participation and a fair democratic process.
  • Falz expressed reservations about Nigeria's political class but remains open to endorsing a candidate he fully trusts in the future.

Nigerian rapper and social commentator Folarin Falana, widely known as Falz, has firmly refuted claims that he publicly endorsed the Labour Party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during the 2023 general election. Falz asserted that he has consistently maintained a neutral stance, never publicly supporting any specific politician or political party.

Just a point of correction: I’ve never, in 2023 or at any point, openly supported any politician or political party.

— FalzClarifying his stance on political endorsements during the 2023 Nigerian general election.

During a recent appearance on Arise Television's Prime Time, Falz explained his position. While he actively encourages Nigerians to exercise their right to vote and make their voices heard, he deliberately avoids public endorsements due to his reservations about the country's political landscape. He described the Nigerian political scene as cyclical, with the same individuals frequently recirculating through positions of power, making it difficult for him to vouch for any particular politician.

I’ve only actively encouraged people to go out to vote and let their intentions be known. What I clamour for is a free and fair democratic process.

— FalzExplaining his approach to political engagement.

Falz indicated that he might consider endorsing a candidate in the future if he encounters an individual who earns his complete confidence. However, he stressed that as of now, he prefers to remain cautious. He also urged Nigerians, particularly the youth, to participate more actively in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Falz believes that a significantly higher voter turnout would make electoral manipulation considerably more challenging.

We’ve been going in cycles, and it just seems like almost the same crop of people we keep on reshuffling.

— FalzExpressing his view on the Nigerian political landscape.

The rapper has established himself as a prominent voice among Nigerian entertainers, consistently advocating for good governance, accountability, and civic responsibility. He frequently utilizes his music and public platforms to promote democratic participation and demand better leadership from elected officials.

If I see someone that I feel 100% is the one, maybe I would. But as it stands, I’m just trying to be cautious.

— FalzDiscussing the possibility of future endorsements.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.