Nigerian skit maker, actor, and activist, Adebowale ‘Debo’ Adedayo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, has strongly condemned attempts to pressure celebrities into activism over the state of the nation.
He stated that celebrities should not be held responsible for issues that the generality of Nigerians refuse to confront.
Mr Macaroni’s reaction came in response to a viral image circulating online, depicting a figure painted in green, hoisting the Nigerian flag, and holding a placard that reads, “Nigerians, let’s unfollow all useless celebrities keeping quiet now.”
But, taking to his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, the outspoken entertainer did not hold back. “I would never endorse a post like this!!!” he declared, adding that it was unfair to expect celebrities to take the lead on issues when the majority of Nigerians remained silent.
“Please do not ask celebrities to make sacrifices the people themselves are not ready to make. Celebrities are citizens like you. If the majority of the people are quiet, why should we blame celebrities?” he asked.
The skit-maker and activist emphasised that not all celebrities wish to engage in social or political issues, and it was manipulative to force them into advocacy simply because of their fame. According to him, even when celebrities do speak out, they often become targets of attacks.
“When Nigerians truly want change, the people will not wait for any celebrity. The people will become their own celebrities, and they will lead and take charge!” he asserted.
Mr Macaroni also pointed out the hypocrisy in how Nigerians react to oppression, particularly police brutality. He described a common scenario where citizens witness injustice but choose to record videos instead of taking action. “Nigerians will see their fellow Nigerians being brutalized by the police… instead of coming together to stop it that very moment, some will pass by, some others will watch, some others will record. Then the same Nigerians will come online to attack celebrities for not speaking against police brutality.”
His statement has sparked heated discussions on social media, with some supporting his stance, while others arguing that celebrities, as influential figures, have a moral obligation to use their platforms for advocacy for good governance.
Mr Macaroni has been a vocal critic of government oppression in Nigeria, particularly during the #EndSARS protests, where he was arrested by security forces.
However, his latest remarks suggested a growing frustration with what he perceived as misplaced expectations from the public.
