Veteran Nollywood actor Patrick Doyle has expressed high regard for Afrobeats superstar Davido, describing him as the “least arrogant” among his peers in the Nigerian music industry. Doyle made this assertion in a Facebook post where he highlighted Davido’s humility despite his privileged background and constant criticism from colleagues.
In his post, Doyle noted that Davido, born David Adeleke, possesses a pedigree that could justify arrogance, yet he remains remarkably grounded. “Even though Davido has the credentials to be the most arrogant, given the aristocracy of his antecedents, he has remained humble when compared to his ‘street brought up peers,’” Doyle stated.
The actor drew parallels between Davido’s experiences and a profound concept he encountered in his youth. Recalling a visit to Segun Awolowo’s family home, Doyle mentioned an inscription that resonated deeply with him: “Eebudola,” meaning “a blessing in disguise.” The inscription, along with its explanation by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, underscored how adversity often transformed into blessings for the sage.
Doyle connected this idea to Davido’s career trajectory, pointing out how the singer has been subjected to repeated attacks from industry colleagues. “I have noticed a young man who, of late, has been on the receiving end of aspersions from his peers. I have also noticed his attitude towards them and the relentless attacks. He has, for the most part, maintained a calm disposition and a reluctance to engage his adversaries,” Doyle observed.
Despite the flashy persona Davido projects, which Doyle acknowledges as a requirement of the entertainment industry, the actor insisted that the singer’s core character reflects humility. “The young man appears to be flashy and brash at first look. However, show business demands he be that way. That said, he is perhaps the least arrogant of his peers,” Doyle wrote.
He further commended Davido for his respectfulness and willingness to accept correction. “On a few occasions, when he has erred and been corrected by elders, he has humbly redirected his steps and never once retorted rudely to correction. In short, he has displayed all the traits of a true ‘Omoluabi’ in this regard,” Doyle stated, referencing the Yoruba term for a person of impeccable character.
The veteran actor attributed Davido’s calm demeanor to the influence of his father, Adedeji Adeleke, a billionaire businessman known for his unassuming nature. Doyle described the elder Adeleke as “possibly the most self-effacing billionaire around.”
Doyle emphasized that the criticisms from Davido’s peers have only elevated his status on the global stage. “As for the unwarranted abuse from his peers, it appears that the more they attack him and he ignores them, the more his stature as a global star shines,” he noted.
Drawing a full circle back to the “Eebudola” concept, Doyle concluded that the principle seems to manifest in Davido’s life. “Truly, the Awolowo ‘Eebudola’ concept is working in the life of young David Adeleke, the Eebudola of the entertainment industry,” he remarked.
Davido, known for his hit songs and philanthropy, has often faced scrutiny over his privileged background, but Doyle’s endorsement serves as a reminder of the singer’s resilience and character.
