Nollywood star Yvonne Jegede has unleashed a scathing response to First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu’s recent appeal urging entertainers like Burna Boy, Davido, and Asake to form foundations and help alleviate poverty, declaring that Nigerians are simply not worth the fight amid systemic failures and toxic backlash.
The actress, clearly exhausted, took to social media to vent her frustrations after the First Lady’s comments in Lokoja sparked widespread debate about celebrities’ roles in nation-building.
“So after they work hard to earn and then pay their taxes, they should help the government to provide a better life for the masses. While the tax collected is meant for some family members,” Yvonne wrote pointedly.
She painted a heartbreaking picture of her own mental state:
“This country has stretched my mental health to its limits. The more I speak of the uncommon things I see happening in my country, the more people drag me.”
In a raw admission, the mother and actress explained her growing disillusionment:
“I see why people stay quiet in times of crisis. I wasn’t born to look the other way when humanity is being trampled upon but you see Nigerians aren’t worth fighting for because bigotry is the order of the day.”
Her outburst comes as a direct reaction to expectations placed on celebrities to shoulder government responsibilities while public funds face accusations of benefiting only connected elites. Many have defended the First Lady’s call for private sector philanthropy, but Yvonne’s words capture the fatigue felt by outspoken voices who face constant dragging instead of support.
The statement has ignited fierce online arguments, with some hailing her honesty and others accusing her of defeatism. It highlights deeper tensions around celebrity activism, government accountability, and public ingratitude in Nigeria today.