Nigerian actor and activist, Mr Macaroni, has addressed growing criticisms that celebrities are not doing enough to speak out against the worsening economic and social hardships in the country.
Responding to these concerns in a post on X (formerly Twitter), he defended public figures who choose to remain silent, arguing that activism is a personal decision and should not be imposed on anyone. “I would never endorse a post like this!!!” he wrote.
“Please do not ask celebrities to make sacrifices the people themselves are not ready to make.” His statement reflects his stance that advocacy must come from collective will, not just from individuals in the spotlight.
The comedian further elaborated that celebrities are, first and foremost, citizens like everyone else and should not be unfairly expected to bear the weight of activism alone. He questioned why public figures are singled out for criticism when the majority of citizens remain silent.
“If the majority of the people are quiet, why should we blame celebrities? Also, not all celebrities wish to speak on social issues. So it’s unfair to manipulate us into speaking about certain topics because even when we speak, we get attacked!”
His remarks highlighted the paradox many celebrities face—being pressured to voice concerns, yet facing backlash when they do.
Mr Macaroni also pointed out a pattern of hypocrisy in how Nigerians respond to injustice, particularly in cases of police brutality. He recalled instances where ordinary citizens witness fellow Nigerians being harassed by law enforcement but fail to intervene.
“Nigerians will see their fellow Nigerians being brutalized by the police. Instead of coming together to stop it at that moment, some will pass by, some others will watch, some others will record,” he said. “Then the same Nigerians will come online to attack celebrities for not speaking against police brutality.”
His statement challenges the expectation that celebrities must always lead social justice movements while the broader public remains passive.
Reinforcing his argument, the activist stressed that genuine change does not depend on celebrities but rather on the collective action of the people. He asserted that when Nigerians truly desire transformation, they will not wait for any celebrity to lead them. “When Nigerians truly want change, the people will not wait for any celebrity,” he declared.
“The people will become their own celebrities, and they will lead and take charge!” His words reflect his belief that real progress will only happen when citizens take ownership of their struggles rather than relying on entertainers to champion their causes.
Mr Macaroni has long been an outspoken advocate for justice and accountability, particularly since his active participation in the 2020 #EndSARS movement against police brutality. His involvement in the protests cemented his reputation as a voice for the oppressed, but his recent statements make it clear that he believes advocacy is a shared responsibility.
While he remains committed to speaking out against corruption and oppression, he urges Nigerians to understand that meaningful change requires more than just celebrity voices—it demands the collective resolve of the entire population.
