Nollywood actor Saidi Balogun has responded to criticism from social media users following his public declaration of support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
The veteran actor recently shared videos of himself participating in and hosting campaign rallies in different parts of Nigeria in support of Tinubu, who is seeking another term in office.
The videos generated mixed reactions, with several Nigerians criticising the actor over his decision to support the president.
However, Balogun has urged his critics to respect individual differences, insisting that people should be allowed to hold different political opinions without being attacked.
In a post shared on his official Instagram page, the actor also offered prayers for those criticising him, asking God to heal them and return their prayers and curses to them.
He wrote:
“Rest! Live and let live. Oluwa wa pelu yin! May God heal you and may all your prayers and curses return to you. God bless Nigeria.”
His response comes amid public conversations surrounding celebrity endorsements and the involvement of entertainment personalities in Nigeria’s political activities.
Yinka Quadri Explains Why Yoruba Actors Support Tinubu
Meanwhile, veteran Nollywood actor Yinka Quadri has explained why he and some other Yoruba entertainers are supporting President Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
Quadri said his decision to support the president was influenced by his personal experiences and the assistance Tinubu had reportedly provided to members of the entertainment industry over the years.
Speaking during an interview on the African A-List programme, the actor explained that Tinubu’s relationship with entertainers predated his emergence as Nigeria’s president.
According to Quadri, the relationship dates back to Tinubu’s tenure as governor of Lagos State, when he reportedly supported entertainers facing financial and personal challenges.
Quadri Recalls Tinubu’s Assistance to Baba Suwe
The veteran actor specifically recalled how Tinubu allegedly paid the medical bills of late Nollywood comedian Babatunde Omidina, popularly known as Baba Suwe, when the actor was battling an illness.
Quadri said Tinubu had consistently extended financial assistance to entertainers who needed support, making him a familiar figure within the entertainment industry.
He suggested that such personal experiences had influenced his decision and that of some other Yoruba entertainers to support the president’s second-term ambition.
Celebrity Political Endorsements Generate Reactions
The positions taken by Saidi Balogun and Yinka Quadri highlight the growing involvement of Nigerian entertainers in political discussions and campaigns.
While Balogun has urged Nigerians to respect differing political opinions following the backlash against his endorsement, Quadri has pointed to Tinubu’s reported history of supporting entertainment practitioners as a reason for his political position.
Their comments have further drawn attention to the relationship between Nigeria’s entertainment industry and political leadership ahead of the next presidential election.