- Mr Macaroni addressed critics, reinforcing his belief in standing by one’s conscience, even in the face of backlash
- The comedian’s decision not to greet Governor Sanwo-Olu stirred widespread reactions
- TheRadar compiled some of the varied public reactions, with some backing his decision and others voicing their disapproval
Popular skit maker and actor, Debo Adedayo, also known as Mr Macaroni, has firmly stated that he would not exchange pleasantries with Lagos State governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, following criticism over his failure to greet the governor.
Mr Macaroni had been caught on camera steering clear of Governor Sanwo-Olu at public functions. During one of such interactions, Mr Macaroni was pressured to greet Sanwo-Olu, even though he seemed unwilling.
The comedian’s ongoing tension with the Lagos State governor could be linked to his arrest during the 2021 EndSARS protests.
Comedian addresses backlash over snubbing Sanwo-Olu
Mr Macaroni’s stance has sparked widespread reactions on social media. On Monday, March 10, he took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle to address the issue, stating, "This is the last time I will address this matter. It is not worth my peace of mind."
He continued, "Since you people won’t stop attacking me because I didn’t greet Governor Sanwo-Olu, next time I see him, I still won’t greet him. And this time, even if he calls me, I won’t answer. You people will cry today, tomorrow, and forever!"
Macaroni criticised what he described as a tendency among some Nigerians to praise political leaders instead of holding them accountable for their actions, especially amid the ongoing economic hardship.
"The people are suffering!!! The price of everything is up. Instead of you people to hold your leaders accountable, you are busy kissing their bumbum," he stated.
Macaroni decries compromise for rewards, defends integrity
He also addressed accusations of opportunism, accusing some critics of politicians of doing so only to gain favour for personal gain.
"Some of you on here criticise politicians only because you want to be seen by them and called to scrape leftovers at the table," he said.
"Some people call out their state governors every day then went behind closed doors to collect envelopes to become praise singers."
Macaroni added that it "hurts when others try to make compromises for personal gain. He emphasised that while many may sell their principles for material rewards, there will always be those who remain steadfast.
"It’s a tough world, and while most people will compromise, there will always be a few good men and women," he stated.
"Stop attacking others for refusing to betray their conscience. The guilt is yours and yours alone to bear."
The comedian’s comments have sparked mixed reactions online, with some supporting his decision while others criticised his refusal to show respect for the office of the governor.
TheRadar compiled some of the public reactions, illustrating the ongoing debate on the matter.
Netizens react to Mr Macaroni’s snubbing of Sanwo-Olu
“Is that why u can’t greet ur state governor,” Omotayo Solomon Ayodeji stated.
“Is it by force to greet? You can go and resume in Alausa every morning to greet Sanwoolu if that’s what’s important to you,” 2 Avocados for 10 Bucks reacted
“If your state Governor plays a key role in dehumanizing you. Stripping you naked, have you tortured, and incarcerated. When you finally gain your freedom, feel free to go & dance for him, and empower him to do the same to your children if they choose to speak against injustice,” @BolanleBabyDoll added
“Who promotes female harassment in the community more than this young man ? Your skits are fueling sexual crimes more than any other skits have seen. You have no mouth to talk joor,” Stephen Kosh stated.
“Na Sanwo-Olu caused this nonsense. Why would he greet you in the first place?” Golden son of Ibeju Lekki stated.
“What exactly is Governor Sanwoolu’s offence?” Justice Omodiagbe reacted.
“I thought everyone has moved on and moved past this,” RUTH reacted.
“You’re meant to be a well brought up adult. You don’t have to be in agreement with the governor for you to *greet* him. You should always display moral character of how well you were raised and continually be a testament to your parents. Greeting is not synonymous to consent,” Secksybeee stated.
“But Mr Macaroni ! Don't you think greeting Gov Sanwoolu would've added more value to your life? Think about this and keep your shoulders down Mannnn,” Bassey Joseph stated.
“Realistically,in all ramifications,Gov Jide pass u. So it's inconsiquencial weather you greet in or not,U can't help him,he can help u,U can't hurt him,he can finish You. As 4 those crying about ur actions,I think they are pained that a well trained Omoluwabi will do what u did,” Lijoka Olawale reacted.
“😂😂😂..... Yoruba will say "ofo tie niyen" it doesn't stop him being a governor,” Adetoro Kazeem stated.
Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu suspends media aide over controversial post
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Lagos Governor suspended media aide, Wale Ajetunmobi, over controversial tweet regarding the 2020 #EndSARS protest.
According to the report, Ajetunmobi's tweet about arsonists being "hunted down and executed" sparked public backlash.