Bright Okpocha, who is known by his stage name Basketmouth, has issued an official statement through his Instagram account explaining why he did not vote in the 2023 Nigerian presidential election. The popular Nigerian comedian cited that he had international shows on the same date as the election, which made it impossible for him to participate.
According to Basketmouth, his shows were usually scheduled a year ahead to secure the venue, and changing the dates at the last minute would have been a logistical hazard not only for him but also for his entire crew. He added that the election date has not always been in February, but his show has always been scheduled around that time as a Valentine's Day special.
Basketmouth, who has been vocal about the issues affecting the country, acknowledged that he was proud of the Nigerian youths who took a stand in the election. He also expressed his gratitude to his fans who understood his situation and still came out to support him in his international shows.
In his statement, he said, "I've always spoken up about the wrongs in this country. It's quite unfortunate that I missed elections this year. However, my international shows are planned one year before, so as to secure the date and venue. To have changed my dates on such short notice would've been a logistical hazard to not just myself, but the whole crew. The elections have not always been in February, but my show always was, as a Valentine special. That being said, I am proud of every Nigerian youth for taking a stand. Thank you to my true fans that understood and still came out for me. Thank you Frankfurt for another sold-out show. Cologne, you're next."
