By Sulaymon Ruqoya
September 13th, 2024
Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson is facing a wave of criticism on social media following the release of a video where she rallies support for the All Progressive Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
The video, which went viral on September 13, 2024, shows the actress standing atop a campaign vehicle, addressing a crowd at Ward 6, Irruekpen, Esan West LGA, urging them to vote for APC in the upcoming election. However, her open endorsement of the ruling party has sparked outrage among Nigerians, with many expressing their disapproval on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).
One user criticized her actions, saying, “Mercy Johnson is using her fame to drag many people to vote for APC. Next week, she will come and tell us eggs are now costly.”
Another chimed in, “People are just defending their source of income. No single love for the country.”
The backlash didn’t stop there, as others attacked her acting career, with one person commenting, “Mercy Johnson that acts foolish characters, in foolish movies, with foolish storyline, dumb script, and useless soundtrack, that will numb your IQ; she’s using the power of fame to manipulate the locals. Anything for the money.”
Another user remarked on her campaign promises, saying, “She don dey give promise on their behalf now oo. Later in the future if they drag her, she go say nah bully.”
Many online users also highlighted their frustration with politicians, pointing out that celebrities like Johnson are often detached from the struggles of everyday Nigerians. One user observed, “That video by Mercy Johnson will make you understand that, politicians no really send us. As long as they and their family are not experiencing any form of hardship, they will keep pushing the agenda that they are the best candidate we can ever have.”
The viral video continues to stir heated conversations, with Johnson trending across social media platforms as Nigerians debate the influence of celebrities on political campaigns.