Actress reacts to FAAN video controversy
Popular Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has broken her silence following the backlash trailing a video involving the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.
Some critics had accused her of being “unpatriotic” and trying to sabotage the image of the government. In a fierce response, the movie star told her detractors that she is a free citizen who can express her opinions.
She clarified that she does not belong to any specific political party and is not on the payroll of any politician. However, she emphasized that she is willing to work with any party or individual who has the best interests of Nigerians at heart. She noted that her primary loyalty is to the masses who have supported her career for over two decades.
Standing her ground against online bullying
Iyabo Ojo has become one of the most vocal celebrities on social media, often commenting on governance and human rights issues. This has made her a target for “trolls” and political supporters who disagree with her stance. She noted that the constant attacks only motivate her to speak louder about the things that matter to the common man.
The actress argued that being a celebrity does not mean she should be silent in the face of systemic failures. She believes that influencers have a responsibility to use their platforms to demand accountability from those in power. She dismissed the claims that she is looking for a political appointment, stating that her acting business is doing perfectly well.
The intersection of entertainment and activism
Nigeria has seen a growing trend of entertainers taking an active interest in the political process of the country. From the EndSARS protests to the 2023 elections, celebrities have played a significant role in mobilizing the youth. Iyabo Ojo is considered one of the pioneers of this movement, often putting her brand at risk for her beliefs.
Her critics argue that celebrities should stick to entertainment and leave politics to the professionals. They believe that her comments often create unnecessary tension and polarize the public. However, her fans see her as a “brave soul” who is not afraid to speak truth to power in a difficult environment.
Focusing on the future of a better Nigeria
Despite the controversy, Iyabo Ojo remains focused on her professional projects and her philanthropic work through her foundation. She urged Nigerians to stop fighting each other over politicians and start demanding better services from the government. She believes that a united citizenry is the only way to drive meaningful change in the country.
The FAAN incident has been resolved, but the conversation about the role of celebrities in politics is far from over. Iyabo Ojo has made it clear that she will not be silenced by anyone who finds her opinions uncomfortable. She continues to be a major force in the Nigerian entertainment industry and the social media space.
