BY Grace Zigah
Veteran Nollywood actor Zack Orji has found himself at the center of a social media storm after publicly leading a solidarity march in support of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a move that has reignited debate over the role of celebrities in the country’s increasingly polarized political landscape.
The rally, held in Abuja, brought together several Nollywood actors and supporters of the President under the banner of the Re-elect Tinubu For Inclusive Nigeria (RTIFN) movement.
Organizers used the event to highlight what they described as the achievements of the Tinubu administration in infrastructure development, economic reforms, and security interventions while encouraging Nigerians to continue supporting the government’s agenda ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The demonstration followed a large-scale medical outreach programme organized by the movement, which provided free healthcare services, consultations, medications and treatments to hundreds of residents, particularly low-income earners in the Federal Capital Territory.
As Deputy Director-General of RTIFN, Zack Orji addressed journalists during the event and appealed to Nigerians to remain patient with the administration as it continues implementing reforms aimed at addressing the country’s economic and security challenges.
According to organizers, the campaign was designed to promote national unity and public confidence in the government’s policies under the slogan, “Relax, Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria.”
However, while the rally’s organizers sought to focus attention on government achievements, public conversation quickly shifted to Zack Orji himself after videos and photographs from the event circulated widely online.
Many social media users expressed concern over the veteran actor’s physical appearance. In the videos, Orji appeared frail and walked slowly during the procession, prompting discussions about his health and well-being.
The actor has faced health challenges in recent years, and his appearance at the rally generated a wave of reactions from concerned fans.
Beyond concerns about his health, critics also questioned why prominent entertainers were publicly endorsing the government at a time when many Nigerians continue to struggle with rising inflation, increasing fuel prices, unemployment, and a high cost of living.
Several social media users accused celebrity supporters of ignoring the realities facing ordinary citizens. Some argued that endorsements of the administration appeared disconnected from the economic hardships being experienced across the country, while others suggested that public figures were using politics to maintain relevance or gain access to political influence.
The criticism comes against the backdrop of ongoing national concerns about insecurity, including reports of kidnappings and violent attacks in several parts of Nigeria.
While rally participants called for stronger efforts to combat criminal activities, critics insisted that security challenges remain a major concern despite government interventions.
Nevertheless, not all reactions were negative. Some Nigerians defended Zack Orji and the other entertainers who participated in the rally, arguing that every citizen has the constitutional right to support any political party or candidate without facing intimidation or abuse.
