In a recent development, Kanayo O. Kanayo, a figure of Nollywood, criticized Reno Omokri, the former media aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, for involving Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, in actor Mr. Ibu’s plea for financial assistance during his health crisis.
Recall that Mr. Ibu is currently grappling with an undisclosed ailment that could potentially lead to leg amputation, reached out to the public for support via social media on Wednesday.
Reno Omokri, on his part, challenged Peter Obi to cover Mr. Ibu’s medical expenses through a post on his social media platform. He claimed that Mr. Ibu had publicly endorsed and campaigned for him as his preferred candidate during the 2023 general elections.
In response to Omokri’s controversial post, Kanayo expressed his disapproval in a video shared on his Instagram page. He condemned Omokri’s actions as heartless, stating, “As actors, our hearts go out to our dear colleague, Mr. Ibu. His family has been doing their best since this issue was first reported last year, and now they’ve made a public appeal for support.”
Kanayo continued, “I strongly denounce Reno Omokri for invoking Peter Obi’s name in this matter; it’s not a compassionate act; it’s cruel. I also address Uche Maduagwu, who made comments about actors being ashamed. Shame on you too because you lack the standing to criticize us.”
He emphasized the importance of individual and collective support within the Actors Guild of Nigeria, asserting, “Supporting a colleague is a personal choice, and some may choose to do so privately. Those who have contributed should be appreciated according to their means.”
In this ongoing situation, emotions run high as the Nollywood community grapples with the challenges faced by one of its own.
