Israel Afeare, popularly known as Israel DMW and recognised as Davido’s logistics manager, has declared support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general election.
In a post and video shared on Instagram on Friday, Afeare argued that Northern Nigerian leaders had performed well as presidents and said he intended to vote for Atiku.
He also questioned the possibility of President Bola Tinubu securing 2.5 million votes in Edo State, a target previously announced by the state governor, Monday Okpebholo.
Davido’s Aide Questions Edo’s Vote Projection
Afeare, who is from Edo State, said previous election results did not support the projection that the state could deliver 2.5 million votes for Tinubu.
In his Instagram post, he cited former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole, describing him as one of the state’s most popular political figures. Afeare argued that Oshiomhole had been unable to deliver 500,000 votes to the All Progressives Congress during presidential elections.
He also claimed that the APC had failed to win Edo State in two presidential elections despite Oshiomhole’s political standing.
Afeare called on Nigerians to be allowed to choose their preferred leaders freely in the 2027 election and said voters should not be swayed by financial considerations.
Israel DMW Reaffirms Position in Interview
When contacted by The PUNCH on Saturday, Afeare maintained his position and reiterated his support for Atiku, whom he said would make a better president.
He argued that Edo’s previous election turnout made the 2.5 million vote target unrealistic, noting that the number of people who typically vote in the state has been slightly above 500,000.
“There is no way Edo can give 2.5 million votes to President Tinubu,” Afeare said.
He added that even if voter turnout increased in the next election, the total number of people casting ballots would not reach the figure being projected. He also noted that not every voter would support the APC.
Okpebholo and Edo APC Leadership Maintain Vote Target
Governor Okpebholo has repeatedly pledged to deliver 2.5 million votes for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
The target has also been reiterated by Edo State APC chairman Jarrett Tenebe during campaign events and in media appearances.
Afeare’s comments challenge that projection, with the Davido associate pointing to previous election participation and results in the state to support his argument.
