Actress Faces Backlash Over Pro-Tinubu Statement
Nigerian actress and political appointee, Eniola Badmus, has once again found herself at the center of controversy after openly reaffirming her unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite the worsening economic situation in the country.
Badmus, who played a significant role in Tinubu’s campaign leading up to the 2023 presidential elections, recently took to Instagram to emphasize that her loyalty remains unchanged.
In her post, she wrote:
“[I am] still standing on Daddy Seyi [Tinubu]’s mandate.”
Her statement, which might have been intended as a show of loyalty, quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media.
While some staunch supporters of Tinubu praised her for standing by the president, many others accused her of being tone-deaf and insensitive to the economic struggles facing millions of Nigerians under the current administration.
Public Backlash: Nigerians React to Eniola Badmus’ Post
Badmus’ post surfaced at a time when inflation, rising food prices, unemployment, and economic instability have left many Nigerians frustrated. The rising cost of living, fuel scarcity, and currency devaluation have put immense pressure on the average citizen, making discussions about governance highly polarizing.
Outrage Over Insensitivity
Many social media users saw her public show of support as insensitive to the plight of struggling Nigerians. They expressed their displeasure in the comment section, questioning whether she was truly in touch with the struggles of ordinary citizens.
👉 Olori_Nini:
“This is really not the right time to post this. It sounds very insensitive. People are struggling – hungry and frustrated because the economy is tough. If people react negatively, it’s understandable, and honestly, you would have brought it upon yourself. No one is saying you shouldn’t support your candidate, but this post feels like a mockery of Nigerians. Maybe you’re not affected by the current economic hardship, but many people are. You can be loyal to your candidate without posting it here.”
👉 Oliver_Of_Lagos:
“Anywhere belle face. Celebrity isonu. Nothing lasts forever. The internet is a memory storage device.”
👉 Hypeman Ruby:
“As the first son of the family and the breadwinner, this mandate has made my struggles worse. I find it hard to be there for myself, let alone my family. I love you, Baddoskie, but shey e fe gbor ebo npa.”
Defending Eniola Badmus
While many people criticized her, some of her supporters defended her right to freely express her political beliefs, arguing that her loyalty to Tinubu was not surprising given her previous campaign efforts.
👉 Alh_Alubarika:
“I don’t understand why people are attacking her. Everyone has their own choices. Moreover, that’s where she earns her daily bread, and she can never deny that. If me and you had the same opportunity she has, we would probably do more than her.”
👉 Sodiq Jnr:
“She campaigned for Tinubu before the election, and she’s still standing by him. Why are people shocked? It’s her choice, just like everyone has theirs.”
👉 Oga_Investor:
“Nigerians should stop blaming individuals for the country’s problems. Hold the government accountable. If Eniola chooses to support Tinubu, that’s her business.”
Eniola Badmus and Her Ties to Tinubu
Eniola Badmus has been one of Tinubu’s most vocal supporters in the entertainment industry. During the 2023 election campaign, she actively used her social media platforms to mobilize support for Tinubu, urging her fans and fellow Nigerians to vote for him.
Her close ties with the president’s family, especially his son, Seyi Tinubu, have often made her a target for criticism whenever the government faces backlash.
Additionally, her political appointment as Special Assistant for Social Events and Public Hearings to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, further solidified her position in Nigerian politics.
However, her outspoken loyalty has often placed her at the center of controversy, as many Nigerians expect celebrities to be more empathetic towards the struggles of the people.
The Bigger Picture: Celebrities and Political Statements
Eniola Badmus’ latest post raises a bigger question about the role of celebrities in politics.
In times of economic hardship, should public figures be more mindful of how they express their political views?
Arguments Against Her Statement
Many argue that while she has the right to support Tinubu, her timing and approach could have been more considerate, especially as many Nigerians are struggling with job losses, skyrocketing food prices, and fuel scarcity.
Others believe that celebrity endorsements of politicians should come with a level of accountability. If a public figure openly campaigns for a candidate and the candidate fails to deliver good governance, some feel that the celebrity should also bear some responsibility.
Arguments in Her Defense
On the other hand, some Nigerians believe that everyone has a right to their political opinions, including celebrities. They argue that attacking her for supporting the president is unfair, as everyone is entitled to their own beliefs.
Some also point out that many people in Nigeria’s entertainment industry align themselves with political figures for personal reasons, and that Badmus is no different.
Will This Controversy Affect Her Career?
Eniola Badmus has always been a polarizing figure, and this latest controversy will not be her last. While she has lost some fan support, she still retains a strong base of loyal fans who admire her work and resilience.
Read also: “From Support to Struggle: Cynthia Morgan Appeals to Tinubu as Hardship Bites Harder”
However, in an era where social media outrage can affect an individual’s public image and endorsement deals, only time will tell whether her political stance will have any long-term consequences on her career.
For now, Badmus remains firm in her support for Tinubu, despite the backlash.
