Veteran Yoruba actor Olaiya Igwe has publicly apologized to Nigerians for his controversial act of going naked to pray for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general elections.
The apology comes amidst widespread criticism of the actor’s actions, particularly in light of the economic challenges faced by Nigerians under President Tinubu’s administration.
Olaiya Igwe, who has faced backlash since his unconventional prayer ritual at the beach in 2023, addressed his fans and fellow Nigerians in a video titled “Apologies to All My Fans,” shared on his YouTube page. In the video, the actor expressed regret for his actions and sought forgiveness from those who felt offended.
“I went naked at the beach to pray for Tinubu based on revelation. I supported him as payback because he is my benefactor,” Olaiya Igwe explained in the video.
“Nigerians, please don’t be angry. You see me as one of those who brought this hardship to the country. I accept. You are raining curses on me because you felt my going to the beach influenced you to vote for him. I’m sorry.”
Acknowledging the current challenges faced by Nigerians, Olaiya Igwe emphasized the need for accountability and effective governance. He urged President Tinubu to address the unmet expectations of Nigerians and ensure that his appointees deliver on their promises to citizens.
“Nigerians are crying. Even those in the diaspora are angry with the present situation of the country,” the actor lamented. “I want to talk to our father, Tinubu, that Nigerians’ expectations are not met. There’s a need for you to appoint a monitoring team to ensure your appointees deliver on your plans and promises to citizens.”
