This is how Nigerian celebrities are reacting to the August 1 protests

Unfortunately, after the protests began, there have been reports of clashes between police and local thugs in several states including Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Borno and others. Police have since used tear gas to disperse the hijackers and protesters.

The protests have become the main topic of conversation on social media and influential Nigerians have also spoken out about it.

Here’s how five Nigerian celebrities have reacted to the nationwide protests:

Nollywood actress Regina Daniels posted a video on Instagram calling for peace during the protests.

“Today is August 1st, the first day of the national protests in Nigeria. We all know that the masses are suffering and want a better way of life, hence the protest. There is nothing wrong with protesting, but there is everything wrong with violence,” she said in part.

She added, “Once violence is involved, it undermines the whole purpose of the protests. I urge everyone to try to make this protest as peaceful as possible.”

Singer Omah Lay showed his support for the cause on X by posting the following: “End bad governance in Nigeria”, on X.

Actress Iyabo Ojo took to Instagram on August 1, 2024, to condemn the act. In a series of posts showing the violence that broke out, she called on President Tinubu and the police to allow the protesters to move peacefully.

“@officiëleasiwajubatplease sir please speak to your men to warn their men. Allow a peaceful protest. Thank you. #peaceful protest is their right,” she wrote, motioning to President Tinubu.

She also posted a message calling on her followers to protest peacefully.

Actress and politician Tonto Dikeh posted a press release on her Instagram, calling for peaceful coexistence, peaceful protest and dialogue.

The statement read, in part: “My heart goes out to everyone who is in a position where they cannot put food on the table for themselves or their families at this time and must protest to be heard. Know that your voices have been heard and your position has been noted, with NATIONAL PROTEST achieving its goals by adhering to it. I hereby call for peaceful coexistence, peaceful protest and dialogue.”

Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw went to X during the protest to encourage her fellow citizens. She wrote: “This is the highest office in the land, yet one person says he wants to eat and chop off people’s heads… A gross and utterly despicable statement!!”