Mr Macaroni Explains Why He Stepped Back From Criticising Nigeria’s Government

Nigerian actor and social commentator Adebowale Adedayo, popularly known as Mr Macaroni, says he has reduced his public criticism of government because he is tired of repeating the same concerns while facing backlash from citizens and threats linked to his activism.

Mr Macaroni made the clarification after Wazobia FM shared a video on Tuesday featuring his earlier comments about threats he received during the #EndSARS protests. He later explained on X that the interview was more than two years old, but said the issues he raised remain relevant.

The actor said his frustration goes beyond the threats themselves. He argued that Nigerians often raise concerns about problems in the country but quickly move on without sustained pressure for change.

“Forget about the threats. My issue with us as Nigerians is how we move on quickly. We complain and move on,” he wrote. He added that he had already made similar arguments many times and found repeating them exhausting.

Mr Macaroni also referred to a March 2026 statement in which he sharply criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He described that moment as the point when he decided to take a break from political commentary.

He said he remained concerned about what he sees as a lack of sustained public resistance to policies and actions by political leaders. He also criticised what he called a “survival mentality”, arguing that Nigerians should demand conditions that allow people to build successful lives rather than simply focus on getting through each day.

The actor said his decision to step back should not be mistaken for an end to his activism. He recalled facing persecution, public criticism and threats since he began speaking against government policies and said threats had become a regular part of his experience.

His earlier #EndSARS experience, he said, had a major personal cost. He recalled receiving serious threats that left his family worried enough to consider sending him out of Nigeria. Despite those concerns, he said he refused to leave the country.

Mr Macaroni also recalled his involvement in the 2023 general election, when he urged Nigerians to vote wisely and publicly stated the candidate he intended to support. He stressed that he did not tell everyone to vote for his preferred candidate, but said his position still attracted insults and abuse from some Nigerians.

The actor said the election outcome and the reactions surrounding it further contributed to his decision to reduce his political commentary. For now, he said he wants to use his break to redefine himself and focus on his art, while leaving the door open to speaking out again when he believes Nigerians are ready to demand change.