By JOY AKANU

Fans of Nigerian Afrobeats singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, have taken to social media to express disappointment following his loss at the 2026 Grammy Awards.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Davido, who was nominated in the Best African Music Performance category, alongside other Nigerian artiste, lost to South African fast-rising singer, Tyla.

The 24-year-old artiste secured the honour with her viral record, “Push 2 Start,” ahead of Burna Boy’s “Love,” Davido and Omah Lay’s collaboration “With You,” Ayra Starr and Wizkid’s “Gimme Dat,” as well as Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin’s “Hope & Love.”

However, the development has sparked widespread reactions among fans and music lovers, particularly in Nigeria, with many expressing outrage on social media, alleging that the “Unavailable” crooner was robbed.

The defeat marks the second year Davido has been edged out by Tyla at the Grammys, despite his high-profile campaign and relentless efforts to secure the award.

The fans expressed disappointment over what they perceive as a snub.

@Osi_Suave said, “Push 2 start was a non-starter, the song didn’t even make any impact or go anywhere. At this point, Nigerian artistes should stop submitting their songs for consideration.”

Twitter user @_AsiwajuLerry slammed the Recording Academy, saying: “Grammy has robbed Davido for Tyla again.

“That award show has officially lost its credibility in front of Nigerians. Never again…”

@_iam_zayn posted, “How long will Grammy keep sidelining Nigerians like this? I may not be an awards expert, but come on… isn’t it very glaring what’s going on?”

@Tufab “When I don know say this Grammy no get joy or pity for anyone na when Essence no win anything. Which song big pass Essence for the world that year. dem Kala like mad.”

@Twain_cy lashed; “Grammy is overrated”.

However, a number of fans noted that Grammy recognition does not define Davido’s success, status and legacy in the music industry.

They lauded his consistency and impact, not only in Africa, but on global stage.

@Ariwodo_ “Grammy doesn’t define your greatness. You remain the best in the game.”

@YKoluwaseun9 said, “At least he got nominated, All thanks to Omah lay that made the song banged. Watin concern grammy with sweet fanta dialo.”

@_egungunn posted, “Grammy or No Grammy, we know Davido is the greatest of all time.”

@SAMKLEF wrote, “Hold your head high. A Grammy doesn’t define your impact, your work ethic, or the millions of lives your music has touched.”

“You’ve already won where it matters most — consistency, longevity, and love from the people.

“This is not a loss, it’s just a pause. Greater moments still ahead. Respect always. Not everyone wins today, some win tomorrow.”

@Roniqbii said, “Please Leave Davido alone and stop discouraging his efforts, he no kill person, Life is about wins and losses, and Davido is not a loser.

“The Grammy doesn’t define his greatness. #30BG #OBO

#GRAMMYS 2 #Grammys2026.”

Also, Cubana Chiefpriest offered words of encouragement to Davido in a post, tweeting: “Oyibo dey do everything possible to break a strong man so he can do their demonic sht with them but he will never do it.

“Heads up brother, open the bag & drop another hot one for us. E no dey finish, gbedu na Water…”*”

The 68th annual Grammy Awards was held on Sunday, Feb. 1, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, with South African comedian, Trevor Noah hosting the ceremony for the sixth consecutive time. (NAN)

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