There’s Only One’—Falz Reveals The Only Politician He Can Endorse

Nigerian rapper and activist Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has said he would only endorse a politician if he is completely convinced of the person’s integrity, competence and ability to deliver meaningful change.

The entertainer stressed that, contrary to public perception, he has never publicly backed any political party or candidate, explaining that his advocacy has always centred on encouraging Nigerians to participate in the electoral process.

Speaking on the importance of civic engagement ahead of future elections, Falz said his consistent message has been for citizens to register, obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and exercise their right to vote, rather than campaign for any individual seeking public office.

“Just to correct the record, I have never publicly supported any politician or political party, whether in 2023 or at any other time. My message has always been for Nigerians to come out, vote and make their voices heard,” he said.

According to the rapper, strengthening Nigeria’s democracy depends on credible elections in which citizens are free to choose their leaders without intimidation, manipulation or interference.

“What I have always advocated is a free and fair democratic process where people can freely express their choices through the ballot. That is essential for building a stronger democracy,” he stated.

Falz, who has consistently spoken out on issues relating to governance, accountability, human rights and electoral reforms, explained that he has deliberately avoided aligning himself with any politician because of his reservations about Nigeria’s political system.

He argued that the country’s political landscape has remained dominated by familiar faces who simply rotate through different public offices.

“I’ve never really stuck my neck out for any politician because we’ve been going round in circles. It feels like the same group of people keeps reshuffling positions, making it difficult to confidently vouch for any Nigerian politician today,” he said.

Despite his cautious approach, Falz said he has not ruled out endorsing a candidate in the future if he encounters someone he genuinely believes possesses the right qualities to lead.

“If I ever find someone I am 100 per cent convinced is the right person, then I may support that individual. But for now, I prefer to remain cautious rather than openly endorse anyone,” he added.

The activist also rejected the widespread belief that votes do not influence election outcomes, arguing that politicians’ willingness to spend huge sums on vote-buying demonstrates that every vote carries significant value.

“If votes didn’t matter, there wouldn’t be vote-buying,” he remarked.

Falz urged Nigerians, particularly young people, not to become discouraged or disengaged from the electoral process, insisting that higher voter turnout would make it increasingly difficult to manipulate election results.

He also called for the full implementation of live electronic transmission of election results to enhance transparency and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Questioning why the country has yet to fully embrace real-time transmission despite substantial funding for elections, he argued that technology should be deployed to reduce opportunities for manipulation and improve the credibility of the process.

Reflecting on the 2023 general elections, Falz said the experience should serve as a lesson for future polls, maintaining that overwhelming voter participation would significantly reduce the chances of electoral fraud.

“When there is an overwhelming majority behind a particular choice, it becomes extremely difficult to manipulate the outcome,” he said.