Nigerian comedian and social commentator, Mr Macaroni, has explained why he has no plans to venture into politics, saying the country’s political environment can corrupt even highly respected individuals.
The comedian made the remarks in a viral video while discussing the challenges of speaking out on issues affecting Nigerians and the backlash that often follows such advocacy.
According to Mr Macaroni, people who speak up for citizens can sometimes become targets of criticism from the same people they seek to represent.
“I’m so happy about how things have been, and you keep talking, and it seems like you’re the troublesome person. The same Nigerians that you speak for turn against you,” he said.
He said his observations of Nigeria’s political landscape had made him reluctant to pursue a political career.
“I look at Nigeria, and I don’t think I want to get into the political space because it seems like the political space in Nigeria corrupts the very best of us,” he said.
Mr Macaroni also recalled how some individuals he once admired entered politics and, in his view, damaged the legacies they had built over the years.
“Men that you have looked up to and you have respected, they got into politics and ruined their legacy. I look at the political space in Nigeria, and I’m not thrilled,” he added.
The comedian also criticised what he described as Nigerians’ tendency to quickly move on from economic challenges after initially expressing outrage.
Using the rising cost of petrol as an example, he said public anger often fades after a few days.
“Even we, the people, the average Nigerian, move on. Okay, look at fuel price now, the wahala wey everybody dey shout. Everybody will just talk, one, two days, next thing, e don go, we don move on,” he said.
Mr Macaroni further questioned the culture of celebrating Nigerians’ ability to endure difficult living conditions.
“Nigerians take pride in telling you, ah, if you can survive in Nigeria, you can survive anywhere. It’s not something to brag about,” he said.
