Davido, the acclaimed Nigerian music star, recently stirred conversations across social media with a profound post on X: “I’ve learnt that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

This timeless adage, often attributed to Maya Angelou, resonates deeply, particularly when viewed through the lens of Nigerian socio-political dynamics. While seemingly a general life lesson, its timing and Davido's prominent position invite speculation about who, precisely, might be feeling the sting of this powerful sentiment.

TheRoundTable weighs some perceptions:

Rauf Aregbesola: The Echo of Unpaid Dues

One prominent figure who might find Davido's words particularly poignant is Rauf Aregbesola, the former Governor of Osun State. Aregbesola is currently locked in a political battle with Davido's uncle, Ademola Adeleke, who is seeking re-election as the Osun State Governor. Aregbesola openly opposes Adeleke's bid.

During his tenure as governor, Aregbesola faced widespread criticism for what many described as an "anti-people" government. His administration left behind a legacy of substantial debt, "white elephant" projects, and, most notably, a backlog of unpaid workers' salaries and pensioners' arrears. The current Osun State government, led by Governor Adeleke, has frequently highlighted these issues, emphasizing the financial burdens inherited from Aregbesola's era and their efforts to rectify them.

For the thousands of civil servants and pensioners who endured hardship under Aregbesola's leadership, Davido's quote about "how you made them feel" undoubtedly evokes strong memories. The feeling of financial insecurity, frustration, and betrayal that many experienced during those years would be difficult to forget.

In this context, Davido, by aligning with his uncle's political aspirations and implicitly with the current administration's narrative of rectifying past wrongs, could be seen as directly calling out the negative "feelings" Aregbesola's policies left in their wake.

Late President Muhammadu Buhari: A Divided Legacy

Another individual, albeit posthumously, who might be the subject of such contemplation is late President Muhammadu Buhari. Davido has often publicly expressed solidarity with people from southeastern Nigeria, a region that experienced significant hardship and, in some quarters, celebrated the news of Buhari's passing. Davido's mother, hailing from Edo State, might contribute to his affinity for the broader "Eastern" identity in Nigeria.

Buhari's presidency, from 2015 to 2023, was met with a deeply polarized public opinion. While some praised his efforts in combating corruption and developing infrastructure, others heavily criticized his administration for its handling of the economy, rising insecurity, and perceived authoritarian tendencies.

For many, particularly in the South-East, the feelings associated with Buhari's government ranged from neglect and marginalization to outright oppression, especially concerning the escalating insecurity and the federal government's response to various agitations.

Davido's consistent alignment with the sentiments of the southeastern population could mean his post serves as a subtle, yet powerful, reminder of the collective "feelings" many Nigerians harbored towards the Buhari administration. It underscores the enduring impact of leadership on the emotional well-being of the populace, long after policies and actions have faded from immediate memory even though some people may be forcefully praising him in death.

Something Else Entirely: The Enclave of Perception

Beyond specific political figures, Davido's post could also be directed at "something else entirely that is coming out of the enclave." This could refer to a broader societal issue, a particular group, or even a personal experience that has left a lasting emotional impression on him.

For an artist as influential as Davido, whose every move is scrutinized, his "enclave" could be the music industry, public perception, or even the intense pressures of fame. Perhaps he is reflecting on how he himself has been made to feel by certain criticisms, betrayals, or misrepresentations. The entertainment industry, known for its transient loyalties and often harsh judgments, can leave deep emotional scars. If this is the case, his message becomes a universal appeal for empathy and a reminder that behind the public persona lies a human being susceptible to hurt.

Ultimately, Davido's sensational post, simple yet profound, serves as a mirror reflecting the diverse emotional landscape of Nigeria. Whether intentionally targeting specific individuals or offering a broader commentary on human experience, its power lies in its ability to evoke introspection and acknowledge the indelible mark that actions and leadership leave on the collective psyche. In a nation grappling with its past and navigating a complex present, "how you made them feel" remains a potent measure of legacy.