Veteran Nollywood actress Rita Edochie has voiced strong disappointment over the current state of Nigerian politics, describing it as a shadow of its former self where competence and integrity no longer matter.
The outspoken thespian lamented how the political space has been severely degraded, allowing just about anyone to contest for office regardless of capacity or vision.
“Politics has been badly degraded; anything and everything can now come out to contest, even with nothing to offer, Alu Mee!”
She continued with a direct jab:
“You don’t have integrity and captivity, so hide your face please.”
The actress nostalgically recalled a time when aspiring politicians faced rigorous evaluation.
“When Nigeria was Nigeria, every contestant had to have a concrete evaluation and must be equal to the task before coming out to contest for any small political office. I am not talking about a governorship, just a small local government position. You must be thoroughly evaluated and eligible.”
Rita Edochie expressed bewilderment at the sharp decline, asking pointedly:
“I don’t know when politics became a dumping ground for people who swim in the pool of illusions. Everybody wants to feel among.”
She acknowledged the tough realities facing the nation while maintaining a tone of reluctant acceptance:
“I’ve just been seeing things, and I can only laugh. Though we are still waiting for the freedom of the people in captivity, and I say it is well.”
Her candid remarks come amid ongoing national conversations about the quality of leadership, especially as the country approaches another election cycle. Many observers note the increasing trend of celebrities and individuals with little governance experience throwing their hats into the political ring.