‘I Never Supported Peter Obi in 2023’ — Falz Sets the Record Straight

• Popular Nigerian rapper and activist Falz has dismissed claims that he endorsed Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election, insisting he has never publicly supported any politician or political party but only encouraged Nigerians to vote.

Nigerian rapper and activist Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has clarified that he did not publicly endorse Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi or any other politician during the 2023 general election.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time, the award-winning artiste addressed the widespread belief that he backed Obi during the last presidential election.

Falz explained that while he consistently urged Nigerians—particularly young people—to participate in the electoral process, he deliberately refrained from endorsing any candidate or political party.

“Just a point of correction: I’ve never, in 2023 or at any point, openly supported any politician or political party. I have only actively encouraged people to go out to vote and get their intentions known,” he said.

According to the rapper, his public advocacy has always focused on promoting voter participation, accountability, credible elections and good governance rather than campaigning for political office seekers.

Falz said he has intentionally stayed away from publicly backing politicians because he believes it is difficult to fully guarantee that elected leaders will keep their promises once they assume office.

“I haven’t stuck out my neck for any politician for obvious reasons,” he said, noting that many of the same political figures have continued to dominate Nigeria’s political landscape over the years.

His clarification comes amid the long-standing perception that he supported Peter Obi during the 2023 election due to his outspoken criticism of bad governance, corruption, police brutality and his consistent advocacy for youth participation and social justice.

Throughout the election period, several Nigerian celebrities openly declared support for various presidential candidates, while others, like Falz, focused on encouraging citizens to exercise their democratic rights without aligning themselves with any political party.

Over the years, Falz has established himself as one of Nigeria’s most vocal entertainers on national issues, using both his music and public appearances to speak against social injustice, inequality, corruption and poor governance.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the rapper called on Nigerians—especially young people—to become more politically aware and actively participate in shaping the country’s future.

He urged eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stay informed about political developments and make thoughtful decisions at the polls.

As political conversations begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, Falz maintained that his position remains unchanged.

According to him, his responsibility is to encourage civic engagement and democratic participation—not to campaign for or publicly endorse any politician or political party.