Toyin Abraham, a prominent Nollywood actress and producer, has spoken out in defense of her decision to support President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 elections.
After facing back/lash for her endorsement, Abraham addressed the criticism during an Instagram Live session on the 4th of June, 2024.
The filmmaker emphasized that Nigeria’s democratic system allows her the freedom to support and vote for her chosen candidate, and refused to tolerate further cyberbullying of her family over her political choices.
Abraham also denied allegations that she received payment in exchange for her support, reaffirming her right to make her own political decisions.
“Years back, I wanted (Goodlcuk) Jonathan, everybody wanted Buhari, you guys bullied me. I have never for once passed my frustrations at anyone. Some people keep saying I don’t owe anyone any explanation; you think it is easy? Every day, they put up a picture of my children and be cursing my children every time. Because you guys feel I am an emotional person, I would always let things slide. But this time, I will not let it slide,”.
“What did my children and family do to you? If you want to curse me, curse me. Do whatever you want to do to me. Those children don’t even know anything yet you curse and bully them every time and some people keep saying I should ignore. Enough is enough. I would not take it anymore.
“It is democracy. It is my right to choose and vote for whoever I want to vote for. I’m saying it publicly I never collected a dime to support Tinubu or Sanwo-Olu. I’m not that kind of person. That is not the kind of upbringing I have,” she said.
Earlier, the actress was reported to have pledged to keep her political views private going forward, following intense backlash on social media for openly supporting Tinubu in the 2023 elections.