Nollywood actor Laide Olabanji has criticised what he described as tribal loyalty among some Yoruba people, accusing them of placing ethnic identity above national interest when making political choices.
Olabanji argued that some people were unwilling to support former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi because he is not Yoruba, despite what he described as their recognition of Obi’s qualities compared with other political options.
In a statement, the actor said Obi had done nothing to offend those who oppose him, insisting that ethnicity was the main reason behind their rejection of the politician.
“Peter Obi did not offend you. His only offence is that he is not from your tribe. Meanwhile, you know he is far better than any of them. Stop using tribalism to destroy people’s future. I’m telling you for free, Peter Obi is Nigerians’ choice,” he said.
The actor also questioned the political decisions Nigerians had made in previous elections, arguing that some of those choices had contributed to the challenges confronting the country.
Making a historical reference, Olabanji cited the administration of former Head of State, Murtala Muhammed, urging Yoruba people to remember that their parents and grandparents benefited during his tenure, even though he was not from their ethnic group.
“I am ashamed of some Yoruba people. So, you prefer your tribe person to destroy Nigeria than give another tribe a chance to fix things?” he asked.
Olabanji urged Nigerians to prioritise leadership considerations over ethnic affiliations, warning that tribal sentiments could influence political decisions at the expense of broader national interests.
His comments add to the ongoing public debate over ethnicity, political loyalty and the role of national identity in Nigeria’s leadership choices.
