It is no longer news that most Nigerian entertainers are going into politics in large numbers. And most of them have the support of their fans as they campaign for different seats in their various States and constituencies.
Nollywood veteran actor, Pete Edochie was recently interviewed by Punch Newspaper, and he shared his views about entertainers going into politics. He stated that, they (entertainers) should be given a chance to run for an office instead of judging them.
When asked how he would react to artistes’ involvement in politics
His answer:
“There is nothing wrong with that. If an artiste decides to go into politics, it is welcome. In some parts of the world, you have people who take time off from acting to go into politics. In the United States of America, for instance, we have Ronald Reagan, who was a Hollywood actor that later went into politics, eventually becoming the President of the US. (Arnold) Schwarzenegger, as you know, is also a Hollywood actor. He got into politics and became the Governor of California. There is nothing wrong with it at all.”
When they told him that Observers have been asking, ‘Why are many artistes rushing into politics at the same time?’ See his answer after the cut…
“What is wrong with that? Most of those actors are brilliant young men (and women) and I think they can make some good contributions; unlike most of the people who are there, who just cart away money and don’t contribute anything. I think it is good for the industry. We’ve got to let the nation know that these are not dropouts. They are well-educated young men (and women) who can hold their own anywhere in the world. If they go into politics and they are voted for, fantastic! I will be very happy about it.”
“What is wrong with that? Most of those actors are brilliant young men (and women) and I think they can make some good contributions; unlike most of the people who are there, who just cart away money and don’t contribute anything. I think it is good for the industry. We’ve got to let the nation know that these are not dropouts. They are well-educated young men (and women) who can hold their own anywhere in the world. If they go into politics and they are voted for, fantastic! I will be very happy about it.”
When asked whether these artistes have the requisite experience to govern.
His answer below:
“How many politicians do you know that had to undergo tutelage anywhere before they went into politics? If you have the requisite qualification and you are running your family without interference from others; if you can run your family, you can run a country. I have been running my family for the past 45 years and I can run the country comfortably. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. People go on and on about leadership. If you are well-educated and you know what your priorities are, that is what makes leadership. It is not just saying, ‘I am a leader.’ No. How you react to challenging situations is what makes you a leader. Therefore, I believe that these artistes, if they are given the opportunity, can make their mark. I am in support of them.”
