Veteran Nollywood actor Zack Orji has come under heavy criticism on social media after leading supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at a solidarity rally in Abuja. The event featured several Nollywood personalities who praised the administration’s achievements in infrastructure and security, while also calling for an end to the rising cases of kidnapping across the country.
The rally, organised by the Re-elect Tinubu For Inclusive Nigeria (RTIFN) movement under the slogan “Relax, Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria,” followed a medical outreach programme that offered free consultations, treatment, and medication to hundreds of residents, particularly low-income earners.
Zack Orji, who is the Deputy Director-General of the movement, told journalists at the event that Nigerians should support President Tinubu’s reform agenda ahead of the 2027 elections.
The rally comes amid growing public concern over insecurity, with recent abductions reported in parts of Oyo and Borno states, alongside ongoing economic hardship linked to inflation and rising living costs.
However, online discussions soon shifted from the rally itself to Orji’s appearance during the procession. Videos and images shared on social media showed the actor walking slowly and appearing visibly frail, sparking widespread reactions on X.
Many users questioned why entertainers were openly backing the administration despite the country’s economic difficulties.
One user, @AdenolaOla…, wrote: “Nollywood actors declaring Tinubu is fixing Nigeria while millions are eating garri with no sugar and fuel is ₦1,200/litre. Is this ‘fixing’ or paid PR?”
Another user, @Dammyse…, described the rally as “fake support,” claiming some celebrities were using political endorsements for relevance rather than addressing national issues like inflation and insecurity.
A different user, @CHILDwitGrace, also accused celebrity supporters of misleading struggling Nigerians, while others argued that public figures have the right to support any political cause without being attacked.
Amid the backlash, some social media users defended the actors, saying political affiliation is a personal choice and should not attract insults or harassment.
The debate reflects ongoing divisions in public opinion about the Tinubu administration. Supporters point to infrastructure development, reforms, and security efforts as signs of progress, while critics insist that many Nigerians are yet to feel any real improvement amid rising hardship and insecurity.
The controversy surrounding Orji’s participation has further highlighted the growing influence of celebrities in Nigeria’s political space, where endorsements often generate intense public debate.
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