
His Apology Goes Viral
In the widely shared clip, Afolayan said, “The curses you guys are raining on me is too much. I didn’t take money from anyone, please forgive me.” The actor’s words reflect the emotional strain that followed days of sharp reactions from social media users and commentators across the country.
📹 Watch the apology video below:
What Triggered the Backlash
The controversy began earlier in March 2026 when Afolayan appeared at a gathering organised to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign. At the event, the actor endorsed the president’s bid and appeared to downplay widespread national concerns about insecurity and the economic hardships many Nigerians are facing.
According to reports, Afolayan dismissed news of violent unrest and insurgency as exaggerated and expressed confidence in local government accountability. Those remarks attracted swift criticism online, with many users accusing him of being out of touch with the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.
Denies Being Paid, Asks For Forgiveness
Responding to claims circulating online that he had been paid to make the political statements, Afolayan strongly denied receiving money or incentives from any organisation or individual. Instead, he emphasised that his intent was not to mislead or undermine the lived experiences of Nigerians.
“I didn’t take money from anyone,” he reiterated in the apology video. The actor also said he was stepping back from political commentary and activism “to protect his peace and reputation.”
Mixed Public Reaction
Reaction from the public has been mixed. Some Nigerians praised Afolayan for apologising and owning up to his missteps, describing his apology as a rare act of humility from a public figure. Others have insisted that his initial remarks reflected a deeper disconnect between some celebrities and the national mood — especially concerning issues like insecurity, unemployment, and inflation.
Political commentators have also weighed in, with some suggesting that Afolayan’s experience reflects the risks that entertainers face when speaking publicly about divisive issues, especially in a highly charged political climate.
A Shift Back to Art
Following his apology, Afolayan affirmed that his focus will now return to his acting career. The actor, part of a prominent family in Nigerian cinema and known for roles in various Nollywood productions, did not provide details on future projects but emphasised his desire to concentrate on storytelling and craft instead of public political speech.
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