Nollywood actor Jide Awobona has addressed the criticism that followed a video he shared about the growing insecurity in Nigeria, revealing that the intense reactions eventually led him to remove the post.
Speaking through a lengthy message on his Instagram page, the actor explained that he took down the video because he was speaking from a place of deep emotion and vulnerability. According to him, the realities unfolding across the country had weighed heavily on him, making the issue deeply personal.
Awobona appealed to Nigerians to show more understanding toward one another, especially during difficult times. He stressed that people respond to pain, fear, grief, and disappointment in different ways and should not be condemned for expressing their emotions differently.
He noted that many people often fail to realize that behind smiling faces are struggles and burdens that remain unseen. For that reason, he urged the public to avoid making assumptions about what others may be going through.
The actor pointed out that his concern about insecurity did not begin with the recent video. He recalled previously speaking out about several incidents, including the kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. He said he has consistently used his platform to raise awareness and express concern whenever tragedies occur.
Beyond public advocacy, Awobona revealed that he has also experienced crime firsthand, having been robbed in the past. He added that there are several personal challenges and painful experiences he has endured away from the public eye, which have helped him understand the emotional burden many Nigerians currently carry.
According to him, the pain, frustration, and anger felt across the country are genuine and cannot be ignored. However, he expressed surprise at the scale of the backlash he received after sharing his thoughts online.
The actor disclosed that more than a million comments poured in across his social media platforms. While many reflected public frustration and disappointment, some individuals went as far as wishing that he and others would become victims themselves.
Despite the harsh reactions, Awobona said he understands that much of the hostility stems from widespread exhaustion, anger, and the emotional strain many citizens are experiencing.
He also highlighted what he described as a contradiction in the way public figures are treated during moments of national distress. According to him, many of the people criticizing others continue with their daily routines, attending work, school, family gatherings, weddings, and celebrations because life inevitably moves forward despite painful circumstances.
Awobona argued that celebrities are often denied the same humanity. He noted that public figures are frequently expected to stop smiling, working, attending events, or sharing moments from their lives whenever tragedy strikes. Yet, he maintained that entertainers and celebrities are equally affected by the realities confronting ordinary Nigerians.
His comments come amid broader conversations about insecurity and public reactions on social media. Recently, music star Davido also responded to criticism after speaking about the country’s security challenges. Addressing questions about his friendship with Seyi Tinubu, Davido clarified that their long standing relationship does not prevent him from voicing concerns about issues affecting Nigerians. He disclosed that he often reaches out directly to express his frustrations and concerns.
The conversation gained further momentum following widespread outrage over the reported abduction of dozens of children in Oyo State. As many people marked Children’s Day, the incident cast a shadow over celebrations and sparked emotional reactions across the country.
Several celebrities used their social media platforms to express grief and solidarity with the affected families. Among those who reacted were Ruth Kadiri, Paul Okoye, Sotayo Gaga, Patience Ozokwo, Kehinde Bankole, Biola Bayo, Toke Makinwa, Mercy Eke, and others who shared messages of concern and sadness.
Actor Lateef Adedimeji described the situation as heartbreaking, particularly from the perspective of a parent. He called on authorities to fulfill their responsibilities and ensure the safe return of the children.
Similarly, Kunle Remi questioned how political activities and election preparations continue amid such painful events. He also reflected on the role of social media, expressing hope that society never becomes so accustomed to tragedy that people lose their sense of compassion and urgency.
As conversations continue online, Awobona’s message serves as a reminder that behind public opinions and social media posts are individuals carrying personal struggles, fears, and emotions that are not always visible to the world.
