Veteran Yoruba actor, Kareem Adepoju, popularly known as Baba Fokoko, has refuted recent claims made by fellow actors Lalude and Alapini Osa regarding unmet promises allegedly made to them during President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 presidential campaign.
In a pointed rebuttal during an interview in Ibadan, Baba Fokoko clarified that President Tinubu never made any personal promises of reward or compensation to the group of Yoruba actors who supported his campaign.
“Let us be truthful to ourselves. Tinubu never promised us anything. We supported him because we believed in his vision, not because of money or positions,” Baba Fokoko stated.
His comments come days after viral video clips featured veteran actors Lalude and Alapini expressing disappointment over what they described as being “abandoned” after the campaign. Their remarks ignited public debate about the role of celebrities in politics and the expectations that often follow.
However, Baba Fokoko took a different stance, urging his colleagues to exercise patience and not tarnish the image of the entertainment industry or reduce their support to transactional expectations. He emphasized the importance of principle over personal gain.
“If you joined a campaign because you were promised something, then maybe you were there for the wrong reason. As elders, we should lead with integrity,” he added.
The disagreement among the Nollywood veterans reflects a broader conversation around political endorsement, loyalty, and post-election realities, especially as the administration faces increasing scrutiny over economic and governance issues.
While the Presidency has not officially commented on the matter, observers suggest that statements like Baba Fokoko’s may help to calm tensions and reset public expectations.
source: Legit.ng
