Famous Nigerian comedian Mr Ibu, real name John Okafor calls out other Nollywood actors who are sucking up to politicians especially during this time when elections are fast approaching.
Lately, actors Rita Dominic’s Omoni Oboli, Segun Arinze, Ramsey Nouah and Monalisa Chinda have pitched their tent with President Jonathan.
Mr Ibu has slammed the actors in an interview with ThisDay on January 31, 2015 saying all under the Actors Guild of Nigeria including president; Ibinabo Fiberesima, saying they are sycophants who chase after politicians for favours.
“Nollywood as a whole don’t have good leaders. All they do is attach themselves to politicians and seek for political office instead of restructuring the industry. We don’t even have a standard office; we are not united and we are not financially structured. You can ask the upcoming stars how they cope; they will tell you the truth of what they pass through to have a role in a movie, especially the ladies”
“I don’t want to join those that bother the government. I don’t want to been seen as a beggar because I want a political appointment. I still want people to respect me, by letting my work to speak for me. I will only go to a Government House when I am invited by the Governor himself not to go and beg for a favour all in the name of AGN”
“As for me to disguise as an AGN member or sycophant to seek for his assistance, that I cannot do and will never do. I don’t want to be embarrassed by any politician. I know many of my colleagues that they have chased out of the Government House because they were looking for assistance. I am a proud actor and I command respect for myself. I am not a broke ass. I am a famous actor –a very good one who earns a great pay. Why then should I belittle myself because I need attention or I am looking for financial assistance? It is not possible”.
