Nollywood actor Jide Awobona has opened up about the heavy emotional toll he suffered after sharing a vulnerable video addressing Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, revealing he received over a million comments with many of them wishing him harm.
The popular actor admitted he was forced to delete the video because he was deeply emotional and affected by the crises gripping the nation. In a lengthy Instagram post, he pleaded with Nigerians to show more empathy during these trying times.
“A few days ago, I made a video about the insecurity and insurgency challenges we are facing. Still, I eventually took it down because I was vulnerable, emotional, and deeply affected by everything happening around us.”
He expressed shock at the level of hostility directed at him:
“Across my social media platforms, I received over a million comments, many expressing anger and frustration, and some even wishing we were the targets ourselves.”
The actor urged restraint, reminding everyone that this is not the time for attacking fellow citizens.
“This is not the time to attack fellow Nigerians. This is not the time to tell others how they should react to tragedy, loss, fear, or frustration. People process pain differently, and everyone is carrying battles we may know nothing about.”
Jide stressed that he has consistently spoken out on insecurity issues, including the kidnapping of children and teachers in Oyo State. He also shared that he has personally experienced crime, having been robbed before.
“Behind many smiles are pains you may never see. That is why we must be careful not to judge a book by its cover.”
The actor highlighted the unfair expectations placed on public figures, who are often criticized for continuing with their lives while grieving the same national pains as everyone else.
This latest revelation comes amid a wave of celebrity outcries over the abduction of schoolchildren and the general state of insecurity in the country.