Veteran Nigerian actor, Ganiu Nofiu, popularly known by his stage name Alapini, has publicly expressed deep regret for campaigning for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 general elections, citing unfulfilled expectations, lack of recognition, and growing national hardship as key reasons behind his disillusionment.
In a recent interview on African A-List, the seasoned Yoruba film star revealed that he, along with over 100 of his industry colleagues — both veterans and rising talents — had abandoned their professional engagements for two months to support Tinubu’s presidential ambition. According to him, their campaign efforts were driven by genuine love and belief in Tinubu’s legacy in Lagos State and his support for the Yoruba movie industry, not for personal gain.
“We supported and committed ourselves to the campaign thinking our Messiah had come,” Alapini lamented. “We loved Tinubu following his positive contribution to the industry. But here we are, almost two years into his administration, and we’ve not even been recognized.”
Alapini’s emotional remarks also touched on growing concerns among many Yoruba creatives who feel neglected by the current administration despite their early support. In a pointed criticism, he questioned why Seyi Tinubu, the President’s son, has focused his philanthropic outreach primarily in northern Nigeria, while seemingly ignoring the Southwest, particularly Yoruba entertainers and institutions.
“Seyi is running around the northern part of Nigeria to pay hospital bills. Aren’t there sick people in Yoruba land too?” he asked. “How many hospitals has he visited in Yoruba land? Will he say he didn’t see the old actors during the campaign?”
His frustration is echoed by many in the entertainment industry who are grappling with increased economic hardship, spiralling inflation, and insecurity, all of which have worsened since the 2023 elections. Alapini emphasized that their support for Tinubu was not based on monetary expectations, but they had hoped to see real progress and inclusion — especially for those who helped shape public opinion in the President’s favor.
Alapini’s statements come at a time when public dissatisfaction with the Tinubu administration is growing. Nigerians continue to grapple with the economic aftershocks of subsidy removals, currency devaluation, and rising unemployment. Even die-hard supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have begun expressing concern over unfulfilled campaign promises and the apparent disconnect between the leadership and the electorate.
“We thought we were doing the right thing for the good of Nigeria,” Alapini reiterated. “But right now, I regret it. We were not campaigning because we wanted money. We did it out of belief. Unfortunately, we’ve been ignored.”
Alapini’s candid remarks have sparked debate across social media platforms. Some Nigerians have commended his honesty and courage, saying more public figures need to hold political leaders accountable — even those they previously supported. Others, however, have pointed out that many celebrities ignored warnings during the election, choosing to focus on personal loyalties rather than the nation’s pressing challenges.
As Nigeria looks ahead to midterm evaluations and the approach of 2027 elections, Alapini’s revelations serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of political endorsements, particularly when based on nostalgia rather than substance. His call for recognition and support for Yoruba entertainers also adds to the growing call for a more inclusive governance model, where all regions and sectors are equitably considered.