Bimbo Akintola
Nollywood actress, Bimbo Akintola, has explained how online attacks over political choices influenced her decision to publicly support Bola Ahmed Tinubu during Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election.
Speaking in an interview with media personality, Chude Jideonwo, Akintola said she was frustrated by the hostility directed at people who expressed political views different from those of their critics.
She said the treatment of veteran actress Joke Silva, who had publicly supported Tinubu, particularly caught her attention.
According to Akintola, Silva was subjected to severe online criticism, including what she described as an “inhumane” comment.
She said the incident prompted her to make her own public declaration of support for Tinubu, despite knowing that she could also face backlash.
“I’m also supporting Tinubu, kill me, let me see if you can change my mind,” she recalled saying in a video.
Akintola said her decision was also about defending the right of individuals to hold different political opinions without being harassed.
She criticised the practice of attacking people simply because they support a particular candidate, stressing that political disagreements should not lead to bullying.
“We have our rights to differences of opinion. You don’t like this man, cool, you have the right not to like him. You prefer this person, good for you. But don’t bully others,” she said.
Akintola maintained that although people may disagree over political choices, everyone should be allowed to make their own decision at the ballot box.