Prominent Nigerian actor and social activist Debo Adebayo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, has announced a break from political activism, citing exhaustion from persistent threats and the discouraging indifference of the very people he strives to defend.
Responding to a resurfaced Wazobia FM interview on Wednesday, Mr Macaroni took to X to clarify his sudden decision to step back from criticizing the government. He referenced relentless physical threats that began during the 2020 #EndSARS protests, as well as a deep frustration with Nigerians who, rather than demanding accountability, seem to quickly adapt to poor governance.
The comedian has not held back in his criticism of the current administration. He recalled a March 2026 statement in which he described President Bola Tinubu’s tenure as “the Most Useless Government in the history of Useless Governments.” However, Adebayo now regards his repeated warnings as futile, observing that a small group of politicians continues to harm the lives of over 200 million citizens with little opposition.
“My issue with us as Nigerians is how we move on quickly. We complain and move on,” Adebayo wrote. “Until we as a people are ready to fight for what is ours, saying the same thing over and over again is just TIRING.”
Adebayo’s withdrawal underscores the harsh psychological toll faced by frontline activists in Nigeria, especially when the public turns against those who speak up. He recalled how his advocacy during the 2023 elections—simply urging citizens to vote wisely and supporting his preferred candidate—brought a storm of insults and curses from fellow Nigerians.
He describes this as evidence of a “survival mentality”: as long as people are preoccupied with daily struggles, true unity and demands for a better system remain out of reach. It’s a sobering reflection on a society that often demonizes vocal advocates for change while tolerating those responsible for their hardship.
The personal risks have been immense. During the height of the #EndSARS movement, Adebayo faced such serious threats that his traumatized family repeatedly pleaded with him to leave the country.
Despite stepping away from activism, Adebayo dismissed any suggestion of entering politics, emphasizing that the political arena has destroyed the reputations of people he once respected.
