Nigerian rapper and social commentator, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has denied claims that he publicly endorsed Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during the last general election, insisting he has never backed any politician or political party.
Speaking on Prime Time on Arise Television, the award-winning musician said his public interventions have always focused on encouraging Nigerians to participate in the electoral process rather than supporting individual candidates.
“Just a point of correction: I’ve never, or at any point, openly supported any politician or political party,” Falz said.
“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.”
Falz said he has deliberately avoided endorsing politicians because he remains unconvinced by Nigeria’s political class, arguing that the country’s leadership continues to be dominated by the same individuals.
“We’ve been going in cycles, and it just seems like almost the same crop of people we keep on reshuffling,” he said.
“And at the end of the day, it’s tough to even sit anywhere and vouch for a Nigerian politician.”
Despite his reservations, the rapper said he is not completely opposed to endorsing a candidate in the future if someone proves worthy of his confidence.
“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,” he added.
Falz also urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to participate actively in future elections, saying a higher voter turnout would reduce the chances of electoral manipulation.
“A lot more people need to come out. And like I said earlier on, if there is an overwhelming majority, it would be incredibly difficult for them to cheat that,” he said.
Known for speaking out on governance, accountability and civic responsibility, Falz has frequently used his music and public platform to advocate democratic participation and demand better leadership, while maintaining that he has not publicly aligned himself with any political party or candidate.
