Davido’s “Happy METAL” post on July 7 has triggered heavy backlash from Nigerians online, with many accusing him of promoting cultism
Afrobeats superstar Davido is at the centre of heavy online criticism after posting a cryptic message that many Nigerians believe promotes cultism.
The controversial tweet, “Happy METAL,” was shared by the singer on his X handle (formerly Twitter) on July 7, a date that holds symbolic relevance for some cult-related groups in Nigeria.
The post, though brief, caused immediate uproar.
Thousands of users flooded social media to voice their concerns, accusing the music icon of being careless with his influence.
The hashtag Davido Faces Cultism Backlash began trending soon after.
Many critics questioned the intention behind the tweet.
A user named Digicent stated, “As a public figure, it’s wrong to promote cultism. Davido, do better. You have many young people looking up to you, don’t mislead them.”
Another user, Ghetto, added, “If you think Davido, one of the biggest artists in Africa is not in a cult, then you’re living under a rock.”
While Davido has not made any public comment or deleted the post, fans and critics alike continue to press for clarification.
One commentator, Preacher, expressed disbelief: “Una still dey celebrate wetin no dey give person money for this 2025? Really?”
As a public figure, it’s wrong to promote cultism. Davido, do better. You have many young people looking up to you.
Some critics even suggested deeper implications. Mervin wrote, “Happy METAL? Really? Is that how we are starting today? Is this a cult signal, OBO? Or is it an echo to engage with a ballistic missile? 30BG deserves an answer, not a cryptic vibe.”
Others expressed deeper frustration over what they view as a pattern. A user known as Xperience launched a scathing critique:
“Almost every crime you can think of that’s destroying the poor citizens of Nigeria, your hands dey inside. Petty scam, online fraud, Ponzi schemes, crypto scam, political scam—you dey. Even to visit Tinubu, a president that his government is destroying the country, you dey like werey.”
Another added a comparison, “What is even wrong with you? At your age you are celebrating 7/7. Can never be Wizkid or Burna Boy,” tweeted Alexanda.
Taiwo issued a chilling warning: “Very foolish boy. Very soon you celebrities would become victims of this cult violence.”
In the midst of the outrage, some commenters urged Davido to rethink his actions. Mezie reminded him of his responsibilities, saying:
“At this age? Davido, you’re now a married man with children who are looking up to you and learning from you. Cultism should be the least of the things that should occupy your mind at this age. If you’re too less busy, then enter the studio and come up with something productive and profitable.”
Another voice, Ruth, was blunt: “Why you dey promote cultism??? Osakpolor you fok up o.”
Davido has made no effort to clarify his intent, leaving many of his supporters disappointed.
For now, the post remains visible, and the firestorm around it continues to rage.
His silence is now being read by some as a quiet endorsement, even if no direct connection to cultism has been confirmed.