Ronke Oshodi-Oke Defends Taking Money to Back Politicians

Veteran Nollywood actress Ronke Oshodi-Oke has publicly stated she would accept financial compensation to support politicians, framing such moves as survival rather than conviction. During an appearance on the African A-List podcast, she addressed the likelihood of her associating with political figures, making clear that any such associations would be driven by her need for income rather than genuine political alignment.

When asked whether she would take money to endorse or campaign for a politician, Oshodi-Oke gave a direct response: she would do so to sustain herself. She asked people not to criticise or insult her if they encounter her in political spaces, emphasising that such contexts represent her attempt to secure a livelihood. The actress also indicated reluctance to engage in broader political discourse, characterising Nigeria's political environment as undesirable.

Oshodi-Oke's remarks have generated significant online commentary across social media platforms. Her statement functions as a preemptive explanation to audiences who might otherwise interpret her presence alongside political actors as ideological endorsement. The actress has referenced personal health challenges she has faced in the past and has acknowledged receiving financial support from colleagues in the entertainment industry during difficult periods.

The conversation touches on a wider pattern in Nigerian entertainment where celebrities are frequently approached by politicians for endorsements and public backing. Oshodi-Oke's candid framing of political engagement as transactional rather than principled represents a departure from how many public figures typically discuss such relationships. Her comments during the podcast interview have since circulated widely across multiple news outlets and social media channels.