Nollywood Yoruba actor, Peter Ijagbemi, has unequivocally stated his political alignment, openly declaring his support for President Bola Tinubu and robustly defending his administration against various criticisms.
In a video that has garnered significant attention online, the actor lauded Tinubu as a transformative leader actively working towards the revitalisation of Nigeria. His declaration was accompanied by pointed remarks directed at supporters of prominent opposition figures, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.
Ijagbemi also addressed allegations suggesting that his backing for the President was solely motivated by ethnic loyalty. He proudly dismissed such claims, affirming his conviction in his political stance.
Peter Ijagbemi's Stance on Tinubu's Leadership
During the viral video, the actor confidently expressed that he could pray for his own life to mirror the manner in which President Tinubu is purportedly transforming the nation. He further elaborated that he would not lend his support to any politician for whom he could not offer such a profound prayer regarding their leadership capabilities.
Ijagbemi subsequently directed his attention towards the supporters of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi. He offered prayers that were laden with sarcasm, drawing parallels to their respective tenures in public office:
“Now, I want to pray for you that is supporting Atiku, may the Lord make your life be the way Atiku treated Nigerians when he was a vice president. Now, you that is supporting Obi, I pray for you, as the Lord liveth, may your life be like the governance of Obi in Anambra State.”
Challenge to Critics and Pride in Political Position
The actor also posed a challenge to those who persistently criticise President Tinubu. He insisted that individuals making accusations against the President should substantiate their claims with concrete evidence. Reiterating his conviction, Ijagbemi declared, "If you’re calling me bigot as a Yoruba man for supporting, then I rock my bigotry with pride.”
Public Reactions to Ijagbemi's Video
The video generated a wide array of reactions from social media users.
One user, @mark18306, commented: "Amen o!!!! May it be so and remain so !! As you prayed for it with your own mouth, I sun god accept your prayers and send it with my efiggi to the almight he prayed for it, When time come make people no donate if I hear say anybody donate, the curse go finish am follow you o."
Another user, @HEYZEEKEL, shared their thoughts: "Na wah for all these people sha ooo. When hand meet am too now, him go dey shout say this one na cruise. Olaiya do pass this one, but he is struggling to live healthy. This one wey him acting career don nearly go into extinction."
Saidi Balogun's Previous Experience
This development follows a similar incident where fellow Nollywood actor, Saidi Balogun, spoke out against the online attacks he received for openly campaigning for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections. Balogun had shared videos on his social media platforms showcasing his participation in campaign rallies across various parts of Nigeria in support of Tinubu's pursuit of a second term in office.