Popular Nigerian comedian and social activist, Adebowale Adedayo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, has sparked fresh debates after refusing to greet Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during a recent public event. The actor’s decision has drawn both praise and criticism, with many Nigerians weighing in on the controversy.
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Mr Macaroni reaffirmed his position, making it clear that he had no regrets and would still not acknowledge the governor if given another chance.
“This is the last time I will address this matter. It is not worth my peace of mind. Since you people won’t stop attacking me because I didn’t greet Governor Sanwo-Olu, next time I see him, I still won’t greet him. And this time, even if he calls me, I won’t answer. You people will cry today, tomorrow, and forever,” he wrote.
The social media star, known for his outspoken stance on governance and human rights, accused Nigerians of defending politicians instead of demanding accountability from them. He expressed disappointment that rather than addressing the economic hardships affecting the country, some people were focused on his personal decision not to greet the governor.
“The people are suffering! The price of everything is up. Instead of you people to hold your leaders accountable, you are busy kissing their bumbum,” he stated.
Mr Macaroni also alleged that some of his critics were hypocrites who called out government officials publicly but sought financial favours from them in private. According to him, such individuals could not stand seeing someone who refused to be influenced by political elites.
“Some people called out their state governors every day, then went behind closed doors to collect envelopes to become praise singers. It hurts them when they see that not everyone is for sale,” he wrote.
The actor further criticized the culture of political loyalty in Nigeria, arguing that many citizens had lost their dignity by blindly defending leaders who failed to serve them properly.
“These people have no honour, no code, no respect or dignity whatsoever. They have become slaves to the servants of the people. This is why Nigeria is the way Nigeria is. The people worship and defend their oppressors,” he lamented.
Mr Macaroni, who gained national attention during the #EndSARS protests in 2020, has built a reputation as one of the most vocal critics of government policies. He has often used his platform to speak against police brutality, bad governance, and human rights violations. His refusal to greet Governor Sanwo-Olu appears to be linked to his longstanding grievances with the Lagos State government, particularly concerning the handling of the #EndSARS protests and the October 2020 Lekki Toll Gate shootings.
Many Nigerians, especially young people, see Mr Macaroni as a courageous voice in the fight for social justice. His latest comments have further solidified his position as an independent thinker who refuses to conform to societal expectations or political pressures.
However, his stance has also drawn criticism from those who believe that respect should be given to leaders regardless of personal disagreements. Some argue that refusing to greet the governor was unnecessary and that there are more effective ways to express political dissatisfaction.
Responding to these criticisms, Mr Macaroni maintained that he was only standing by his beliefs and that he would not compromise his principles for public approval.
“I am no saint. I am nobody’s hero. I am far from perfect. I do what I do only because I strongly believe in it. Do I get tired of the constant attacks on my person? Yes! But please do not think for a second that I will betray my conscience,” he wrote.
Beyond his personal stance, the comedian also addressed the rising issue of tribal divisions in Nigeria’s political landscape. He warned against the dangerous use of ethnicity as a tool to manipulate and divide the people.
“Shame on all those who have joined in creating this toxic culture of tribal bigotry. Kudos to every Nigerian, irrespective of their tribe, who see beyond this mischief and continue to do their best to promote peace and unity,” he said.
The controversy surrounding Mr Macaroni’s refusal to greet Governor Sanwo-Olu highlights a deeper issue in Nigeria’s political space—one where loyalty to leaders often overshadows the demand for good governance. While some see his actions as disrespectful, others believe that his firm stance is necessary to remind politicians that respect should be earned through service to the people.
As the debate continues, it is clear that Mr Macaroni remains undeterred in his advocacy for accountability and justice. Whether one agrees with his approach or not, his decision has once again brought attention to the role of citizens in holding their leaders responsible for their actions.
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