Fido Offers Public Apology, Signals New Chapter

Afrobeats singer Fido, born Awosika Josiah, has released a formal apology following months of public criticism tied to controversies that emerged after his 2024 breakthrough.

In a statement shared on X on Monday, the fast-rising star admitted to poor decisions and reflected on the pressures that came with sudden fame.

“There’s no easy way to write this, so I’ll just say it plainly. I messed up,” he wrote.

Fido acknowledged that his rapid rise left him unprepared for the realities of public life. He conceded that ego, excitement, and inexperience shaped some of his actions and comments, adding that he had taken time to reflect rather than defend himself.

He extended his apology to fans, colleagues, and the broader Afrobeats community, including industry pioneers he described as “legends and godfathers who opened these doors.” Emphasizing accountability, he noted that admitting fault requires both strength and maturity.

Although he did not single out specific incidents, the apology follows several public disputes that affected his image.

The “Osakpolor FC” Backlash

One of the most widely discussed moments occurred during a live online session where Fido used the phrase “Osakpolor FC.” Many interpreted the remark as a dig at the fanbase of Davido, known as 30BG.

The clip quickly circulated online, sparking backlash from Davido’s supporters. In an interview with Pulse Nigeria, Fido explained that he had used the word unknowingly, unaware that it was associated with mocking Davido. Despite his clarification, tensions persisted, and the episode became part of the broader criticism surrounding him.

Record Label Disputes

Fido also faced scrutiny over comments about his former management and label partners. In a controversial post, he claimed that no one discovered him and that “God discovered him,” a statement critics felt dismissed the contributions of Inner Circle and Cidar, who played roles in his early career development.

Additionally, his allegations of being defrauded early in his career drew skepticism. Observers questioned why disputes surfaced so soon after his first hit, with some branding him difficult. Though those issues have since faded from public view and he has signed a new deal with EMPIRE, perceptions formed during that period have lingered.

A Message of Reflection

Rather than revisit each controversy, Fido’s latest statement centered on personal growth and accountability.

“I am still learning. I am still evolving… The man walking into this next chapter is more grounded, more aware, and more respectful of the platform he’s been given,” he wrote.

He concluded by expressing gratitude to those who chose to hold him accountable instead of canceling him, presenting the apology as part of a broader journey toward maturity.

Whether viewed as a sincere reconciliation or a strategic reset, the statement suggests Fido is eager to move forward. The apology arrives shortly after he previewed an upcoming single, signaling what he hopes will be a fresh start. Despite the controversies, his rapid ascent has already secured him two entries among Spotify Nigeria’s most-streamed songs of all time.