Nollywood Star Ronke Oshodi-Oke Justifies Receiving Funds for Political Endorsements

Renowned Nollywood actress, Ronke Ojo, widely recognized as Ronke Oshodi-Oke, has openly stated her practice of supporting political figures in exchange for financial compensation. She appealed to the public to refrain from insults or criticism should they observe her associating with politicians.

These revelations emerged during an interview with African A-List, which was uploaded to YouTube on Sunday and subsequently reviewed by PUNCH Online on Tuesday. The discussion centered on Nigerian politics and her willingness to accept payment for endorsing or backing a politician.

Oshodi-Oke expressed her reluctance to delve into Nigerian politics, characterizing it as “dirty.” She emphasized that her stance was not to dictate electoral choices to anyone. She directly quoted, “Nigeria politics is dirt so I do not want to talk about it. So I do not want to talk about it. I am not saying you should not vote for whoever you want to vote for.”

When questioned specifically about accepting funds to endorse or support a politician, the seasoned actress clarified that any such action would be motivated by the necessity to earn a livelihood. Her exact words were: “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.”

Furthermore, the actress shared insights into her relationship with fellow Nollywood personality, Sotayo Gaga, disclosing that communication between them had ceased for approximately five or six years. Oshodi-Oke clarified that while they were not in conflict, a disagreement had occurred. She also mentioned that Sotayo had sent her N150,000 upon learning of her illness. She recounted, “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. And since then, we haven’t spoken. If we meet at a party, we walk past each other without even a greeting.”

The discussion also touched upon the actress's personal struggles, including health challenges, marital difficulties, her journey through motherhood, and her professional trajectory within the Nigerian film sector. Oshodi-Oke shared reflections on the arduous phase she endured during her illness, detailing its profound impact on her perspective on life and interpersonal connections.

Furthermore, she elaborated on her choice to affiliate with the Celestial Church of Christ amidst her health issues, emphasizing her non-judgmental stance towards individuals practicing other faiths. Concluding her remarks, Oshodi-Oke recounted her career path in Nollywood and the inherent complexities of managing her professional commitments alongside her family and personal responsibilities.