Nollywood actress Ronke Ojo, popularly known as Ronke Oshodi-Oke, has defended her decision to accept money for supporting political figures, saying people should not criticise her for trying to make a living.
The actress made this known during an interview with African A-List, uploaded on YouTube, where she discussed her views on Nigerian politics and whether she would accept financial support in exchange for endorsing or standing behind a politician.
Oshodi-Oke described Nigerian politics as “dirty” and said she preferred not to delve deeply into political matters or tell people who they should vote for.
However, she made it clear that if she was seen publicly supporting a politician, people should understand that she could be doing so as a means of earning a living.
“If you see me behind any politician, anybody, just see it as if she is looking for something to put food on the table. Just leave, let her eat. Do not insult or drag me,” she said.
The actress’ comments come amid growing debates over the involvement of celebrities in Nigerian politics, particularly their public appearances with politicians and the financial considerations that may influence such endorsements.
Oshodi-Oke, however, stressed that her support for political figures should not be interpreted as an instruction to members of the public on who to vote for.
“I am not saying you should not vote for whoever you want to vote for,” she said.
The actress also spoke about her relationship with fellow Nollywood actress Sotayo Gaga, revealing that they had not spoken for about five or six years.
According to Oshodi-Oke, their silence was not the result of a major feud but followed a disagreement between them.
She recalled that Gaga reached out indirectly when she learnt that she was ill, sending her N150,000 despite their strained relationship.
“We hadn’t spoken in a long time. Not that we were at war; we just had a little disagreement. The last time we spoke was five or six years ago. But when she heard I was sick, she sent me N150,000,” she said.
Oshodi-Oke added that despite the gesture, the two actresses have not resumed communication, even when they meet at social events.
“Since then, we haven’t spoken. If we meet at a party, we walk past each other without even a greeting,” she added.
The actress also reflected on her personal struggles, including her health challenges, marriage, motherhood and her long career in Nollywood.
She said her experience with illness changed her perspective on life, relationships and the importance of appreciating the people around her.
Oshodi-Oke further discussed her decision to join the Celestial Church of Christ during her health challenges, stressing that her religious choice should not be interpreted as a condemnation of people who practise other faiths.
The actress has remained a familiar face in the Nigerian film industry, particularly in Yoruba-language productions, where she has built a career spanning several years.
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