As Nigeria faces widespread protests, the country’s celebrities have expressed a range of opinions, revealing a deep divide in their perspectives. While the protests have succeeded in drawing government attention to various issues, the perceived apathy of some celebrities toward the current protests, in contrast to their active participation during the 2020 EndSARS movement, has concerned some fans.
The 2023 elections, which saw Bola Tinubu emerge as the country’s president, marked a critical juncture, leading many entertainers to question whether Nigeria can achieve meaningful change. Celebrities who did not support Tinubu’s presidential ambition appear unperturbed about the country’s current situation and have opted to stay quiet.
Many entertainers, faced with potential repercussions of taking a stand, have decided to stay away from the protests. This decision is influenced by a desire to avoid controversy, potential backlash from fans, or fears of professional consequences. The reluctance of these public figures to engage with the protests highlights the challenges celebrities face in balancing personal beliefs with public expectations and potential consequences.
A prominent entertainer from the South East, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “Nigerians chose the leader they want, and everyone should face the consequences of their action. I think it is unfair to drag some of us into any protest even if we all feel the same way about the government. I didn’t expect anything from this government, and I am not going to come here and start postulating about this policy or that policy. It is four years, after that, we will speak on the next line of action.”
While some celebrities voiced skepticism about the nation’s future, doubting the efficacy of political and social efforts to bring about positive transformation, others have adopted a more patient stance. They advocate giving the current government time to implement its economic recovery policies, arguing that these measures need time to yield results and that premature judgment may hinder potential progress.
Notably, some celebrities explained their decision to distance themselves from the protests, citing past experiences such as the 2020 EndSARS movement, which they believed failed to produce significant outcomes. Many of the 2020 protesters remain in jail, and the government has yet to provide compensation to the families of those allegedly killed by security forces.
Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy articulated his reason on X (formerly Twitter), recalling how his music was rejected by protesters in 2020. “The fight in me died on this day. Ogun go d***y, anybody wey call my name this time around,” he wrote, expressing a sense of resignation.
Paul Okoye, formerly of the music group P-Square, expressed his frustration, stating, “I have nothing more to say about the situation of the country and would never be part of any protest again because Nigerians deserve what they get.”
Tonto Dikeh took a somewhat neutral stance, emphasizing her personal freedom in political matters. “If politics will make you unfollow me, please go ahead. I have no hard feelings; I wouldn’t stop supporting to make this country a great place. One thing I wouldn’t do is stress about what you think of my opinion and of my choices or even block my comment section. God bless you all with love and light,” she posted.
Her remarks, however, drew sharp criticism from her followers. One fan commented, “What’s all this na? Can you just hand over this phone to your manager? Without followers, you are nothing, without fans even the government will not recognize you. That you have enough food in your house, just like I do doesn’t mean you should deny the fact that people are suffering.”
Another fan suggested that Dikeh might be seeking political favor, saying, “I understand you are struggling to get SSA appointment but allow your conscience to speak for you.”
In a separate instance, Toke Makinwa faced backlash for implying that some protesters were using the opportunity to loot businesses. Although she clarified that this was not her intention, her comments and perceived indifference sparked further criticism. Her followers accused her of being out of touch with the realities faced by many Nigerians.
On the other hand, comedian and activist Mr. Macaroni took a firm stand against the government’s response to the protests. He criticized the authorities for disrupting peaceful demonstrations, arguing that the protests are always peaceful until state-sponsored thugs intervene. “This is proof that the protests are always peaceful and with good intentions until state-sponsored thugs are sent to disrupt the protests. The Police, in their complicity, will ignore the infiltrators and start to attack peaceful protesters,” he asserted.
Mr. Macaroni emphasized that the government’s responsibility is to listen to the people’s grievances and protect peaceful protesters, not suppress them. He warned against attempts to rewrite history, as seen with the EndSARS movement, and stressed the importance of allowing citizens to express their frustrations through protest.
Yemi Alade also weighed in, promoting a song from her new album, “Rebel Queen,” which calls for peace and love in Africa. “Dem-don-cråzy or Democracy? We all deserve better standards of living and the means to afford basic amenities of life. Food, water, electricity, etc.”
Similarly, Big Brother Naija Level Up winner Phyna called for an end to bad government. She stated that she stands for a new, better, and greater Nigeria and joins hands with the great citizens of the land to push for the betterment of its citizens. Phyna noted how she is a Nigerian and not an enslaved person as she went on to sing the former National Anthem. In her caption, she stated that we all deserve better living standards and the means to afford basic amenities of life such as food, water, electricity, and more.
While some entertainers chose to stay away from the protests, citing disillusionment or personal beliefs, others actively voice their support or criticism. This split reflects the complex landscape of Nigerian society, where opinions on governance, justice, and social change are deeply polarized. As the nation navigates these challenges, the voices of celebrities will continue to play a significant role in shaping public discourse.
