Stop attacking celebrities, focus on government, Femi Branch tells Nigerians
By Folashade Olorunfemi –
Veteran Nollywood actor Femi Branch has warned Nigerians against attacking celebrities over national issues, following criticism he recently received on social media.
The actor said the backlash stemmed from a post he was forced to delete, prompting him to release another video on Tuesday to clarify his position. According to him, celebrities are often criticised both for speaking out and for remaining silent on issues affecting the country.
Branch stressed that every Nigerian has the right and responsibility to speak on public affairs, arguing that the burden of demanding accountability should not rest solely on celebrities.
The actor, who was the Labour Party’s deputy governorship candidate in Ogun State during the 2023 general election, urged Nigerians to focus their attention on political leaders rather than attacking one another. He said politicians often exploit ethnic, religious and political sentiments to divide citizens and shield themselves from scrutiny.
Emphasising the need for unity, Branch noted that internal divisions among Nigerians only distract from the task of holding leaders accountable for governance failures and insecurity.
Speaking on recent abductions in Oyo State, he compared the kidnapping of schoolchildren in Ogbomoso with the abduction of relatives of Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, questioning the disparity in response times. “With money, power and connections, the government will move for you. Poor man’s children stay in the bush for weeks, and all we hear are stories. A rich man’s family gets kidnapped and is rescued within four days. Who is fooling who?” he said.
Branch appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to deploy the same urgency used in rescuing Adelabu’s relatives toward securing the release of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Ogbomoso.
A veteran actor, director, producer and playwright, Branch rose to prominence through his role as Oscar in Domino and has featured in productions including House of Ga’a, Farmer’s Bride, Bling Lagosians and Glamour Girls.
