Fast-rising Afrobeats singer Awosika Josiah, popularly known as Fido, has issued a heartfelt public apology after months of criticism, online backlash, and controversies surrounding his rapid rise in Nigeria’s music scene.
The “Joy is coming” crooner shared the message on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, openly admitting fault and reflecting on the challenges that came with sudden fame.
“There’s no easy way to write this, so I’ll just say it plainly. I messed up,” the singer wrote.
Fido explained that his quick transition into stardom left him adjusting to intense public attention while still figuring out his personal growth and place in the industry.
“Stardom came into my life quickly. One minute I was dreaming about it, the next minute I was living it. And while the world was watching me grow, I was still trying to understand who I was inside that growth,” he said.
He admitted that some of his past remarks and decisions were shaped by emotion, excitement, and inexperience.
“Along the way, I made mistakes. I said things that should never have been said. I allowed ego, excitement, and inexperience to influence some of my decisions. That’s not who I want to be. And it’s not who I’m becoming.”
The apology follows months of heated social media debates, particularly involving rival fan groups linked to Wizkid and Davido.
One of the most talked-about moments during his rise was the controversy around the phrase “Osakpolor FC,” which he used during a live session. Many online users interpreted the remark as a dismissive reference to Davido’s fanbase, sparking widespread backlash and trolling across platforms.
Although Fido later described the situation as a misunderstanding and denied any intentional slight, the criticism continued to follow him.
In an earlier interview with Naija FM, the singer suggested that parts of the backlash stemmed from misinterpretations and his limited understanding of social media culture at the time.
Beyond fan-related tensions, the artist also faced scrutiny over disputes with his former record label, including financial disagreements linked to his early career. While those issues generated industry discussions, his latest statement avoided specifics, focusing instead on reflection and accountability.
“To my fans, the ones who stream the music, defend me, pray for me, and believe in me, I am sorry,” he wrote.
He also extended his apology to the wider music community, acknowledging those who felt disappointed by his words or actions.
Fido described the experience as a turning point that forced him to reflect deeply on his character and growth.
“There are moments in life when you either double down on pride or you humble yourself and grow. I chose to step back. I chose to listen. I chose to reflect. It takes strength to admit you were wrong. It takes maturity to retrace your steps. I’m doing both.”
Looking ahead, the singer promised that his upcoming music will reflect a more grounded and honest mindset.
“The music you’re about to hear will come from a deeper place. A more honest place. A more grateful place. This is growth. This is maturity. This is me doing better. It’s game time again.”
With the apology now public, attention turns to how fans and the industry will respond to what Fido calls a new chapter in his journey.