Veteran Nollywood actor Lukmon Ebun Oloyede, better known by his stage as Olaiya Igwe, has spoken out about his contentious video, which has been circulating on social media for a few days.
When the filmmaker posted a naked video of himself on a beach praying for the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next election, the video quickly went viral online.
Social media users have reacted to the video, with many denouncing the act as wholly inappropriate, shameful, and out of place.
However, the actor has spoken out to clarify the situation behind the contentious video and give his reasoning for taking the move.
Olaiya Igwe stated he owed no one an apology for his behavior when he appeared as a guest on the TV program “Your View” on TVC on Monday morning.
He said that he was acting for a spiritual purpose and that a “voice” had instructed him to get up and go pray for Tinubu at the beach in his underwear.
I was instructed to get up and perform it spiritually. I have a revelation gift from the omnipotent God. I occasionally know what God has in store for me before it actually occurs.
The voice replied, “Please stand up. You stated you love Asiwaju and he has been helping you. He spoke to me while I was asleep that day. I affirmed. Then he ordered, “Stand up, go, and do this for me.”
The seasoned actor also denied rumors that he received payment for the performance. “I purposefully captured that event on camera for everyone to witness. Money is not the reason.
He explained that it was one of the things the “voice” instructed him to do when questioned why he chose to upload the video online for everyone to see.
If you’re Yoruba, a babalawo (herbalist) may advise you to do this prayer by visiting several markets and carrying the sacrifice on a busy market day. Nothing separates doing that from what I did.
He also admitted that he had no regrets about his actions.
“I have no regrets because I listened to the voice that asked me to do it, so it was a deliberate action.
“I can go to any length to support Asiwaju as long as I think this has nothing to do with anyone else,” she said.
“Asiwaju is a big fish in my life and I know he is going to be president of this nation very soon,” he said, expressing confidence that his candidate, Tinubu, will win the upcoming election.