How I Feel About All These Actors Going Into Politics - Tony Umez

Right now, moreso than ever, we have a number of Nigerian entertainers who are vying for political seats of power. We see actress Funke Akindele running for the position of deputy governor of Lagos State. Tonto Dikeh is running for deputy governor of Rivers State. Carolyna Hutchings is running for deputy governor of Akwa Ibom State. And these are just the three of the top of my head.

This influx of entertainers into politics has as you can imagine caused a lot of conversation. Some people welcome the entrance of entertainers into the political space, while others do not. During an interview with Punch, Nigerian veteran actor Tony Umez was asked about his thoughts on the whole thing. Here's what Tony Umez had to say on the issue.

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When asked, "What are your thoughts on entertainers that are aspiring for public offices?", Tony Umez said:

Are they not human beings? They have the right to vote and be voted for. They are Nigerians, educationally qualified, and mature enough to know right from wrong. It then depends on the electorate. Do they think these people are the right people to actualise their expectations? If yes, they can vote for them.

Don’t forget that if they harness their social capital very well, they (entertainers) can bring a lot to the table. Politics is a game of numbers, and some of these entertainers have huge followership.

"Some of these entertainers-turned-politicians have faced criticism from their fans. What are your thoughts on that?"

Everyone has a right to do whatever they want within the ambit of the law. If one is a fan of someone and one feels one’s role model is not doing well, one has the right to criticise such person. For example, if I feel that as a deputy governorship candidate, I can bring a lot to bear if I am in public office, why won’t I do that? No matter what one does, some people will be against one. That is the way of the world. One needs to have it at the back of one’s mind that not everybody will be for one. While some people criticise these entertainers/politicians, others applaud them.

"Have you ever considered joining politics?"

I am too straight to be bent. That is the only way I can answer that question.

"Are you saying that entertainers who are into politics are the ‘bent’ ones?"

Don’t interpret that. When I say I am too straight to be bent, it means I will step on toes. I am politically aware.

That statement speaks volumes. We all know the way politics is played in Nigeria. I don’t want to compromise myself, especially not at the level I am in now.

Hmm. Now that you've read what Tony Umez had to say, I'm curious to know, what do YOU think about this issue? Not just about his answer, but also about the influx of entertainers into the political space. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment either below or on my Jide Okonjo Facebook post.

That's All.

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