Nigeria at 64: Iyabo Ojo, Falz and 5 other celebrity activists who use their platforms to fight for justice

• Some top Nigerian celebrities have been hailed by many as activists for their commitment to helping people seek justice
• Often, these stars do not publicly identify as activists, but their actions make the title familiar to them
• To celebrate Nigeria’s 64th year of independence, Legit.ng has compiled a list of celebrities who have used their platforms to fight on behalf of others

The Nigerian entertainment industry is home to many people who have become famous through their talent or media exposure. Sometimes these stars become famous for more than just their craft.

Over the years, some celebrities have become known for fighting for the oppressed through their voices, influence and social media platforms. However, it doesn’t always end well for them.

Some of these famous activists have lost friends and gained more criticism for their strong stances on controversial issues. Today, Legit.ng we take a look at some of the Nigerian celebrities who have become famous for fighting for justice through their platforms.

1. Iyabo Ojo:

Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo is a Nigerian star who has decided to speak out on the issue of injustice. A movie star uses her platform to fight on behalf of defenseless people who may act against more powerful people without caring who her actions offend. The movie star’s involvement in the case of her Nollywood colleague, Baba Ijesha’s case where he allegedly assaulted a minor, as well as her political stance during the 2023 presidential elections and involvement in the Justice for Mohbad cause have earned her both fans and haters.

2. Folarin “Falz” Falana:

Nigerian rapper and activist Folarin “Falz” Falana is a star that many young people admire for his commitment to civic issues. These issues often do not directly concern him, but he defends the defenseless and even calls out corrupt leaders in his music. During the End Sars 2020 protest, Falz was also very active on social media and on the pitch. The rapper had a spotless record for the longest time until online critic Vincent Martins Otse, aka VeryDarkMan, allegedly defamed him by suggesting he was involved in helping crossdresser Bobrisky stay out of jail and also raised money to ensure himself a presidential pardon. Falz has since denied these claims and also taken legal action against VDM for failing to apologize and clear his name.

3. Debo Adedayo, also known as Mr. Macaroni:

Another Nigerian celebrity who has gained activist status is Nollywood actor and sketch artist, Mr. Macaroni. The movie star has continually used his platform to speak on behalf of young Nigerians and condemn the government’s corrupt practices. During the 2020 End Sars protest, Macaroni was very active on the pitch and was even arrested and put into a truck like a criminal for daring to march in the streets in the name of justice.

4. Obianuju Catherine Udeh aka DJ Switch:

The Nigerian rapper’s fame skyrocketed after she joined the End Sars protest on October 20, 2020, and live-streamed the “massacre” that allegedly took place at the Lekki Toll Bridge. However, this action resulted in DJ Switch’s safety and she was forced into exile. Since then, the young rapper has been vocal on social media about justice for Nigerian youth and those who lost their lives on the bridge.

5. Tonto Dikeh:

Despite the controversies surrounding her, Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh is known for going out of her way to use her platform to fight for the defenseless people. She took part in the End Sars 2020 protest, got involved in the Justice for Mohbad movement and other causes close to the hearts of Nigerian youth. However, Tonto lost the respect of some of her fans after she took to social media to declare her support for Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and even began listing his achievements since assuming the position.

6. Seun Kuti:

Nigerian singer Seun Kuti is known for being vocal on social media about issues in the country. He used his platform to, among other things, inform many young people about what he believed Nigeria could be great about. His fearlessness in sharing his stance on certain issues has earned him many fans and haters. However, there was controversy surrounding the music star after he allegedly attacked a policeman in Lagos. As a result of the quarrel, he was imprisoned for some time.

7. Vincent Martins Otse also known as VeryDarkMan:

VeryDarkMan is a Nigerian star who rose to fame in an unconventional way. He gained the attention of Nigerians after he single-handedly took on the fight against counterfeit and harmful skin care products in circulation. From that point on, the VDM name became a household name and has since been helping young people in the country in a variety of ways, including recovering their money from failed business deals, calling out pastors and their fake miracles, building boreholes in poor communities, and more. However, VDM’s time in the spotlight has also sparked a lot of controversy. The Internet critic is accused of being selective in his activism, as well as a penchant for creating situations about himself by interfering in certain issues and changing the topic. Despite all the negativity surrounding VDM, there is no doubt that Nigerians have felt its impact.

Here are some of the top Nigerian stars who have distinguished themselves by using their platforms to fight for the helpless. As Nigeria celebrates its 64th independence anniversary, one can hope that things will only get better.

Destiny Etiko warns fans on Independence Day

Meanwhile, Legit.ng We previously reported that actress Destiny Etiko has expressed her dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations.

The Nollywood star posted the message online on October 1, 2024, as Nigeria turned 64 years old.

Etiko, who has been vocal about the situation in the country, sent a note to her fans. She warned netizens not to send her messages on Independence Day.

Source: Legit.ng