A video of veteran actor Ebun Oloyede, also known as Olaiya Igwe, praying for the success of the All Progressive Congress (APC) presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in the 2023 elections, has prompted the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners of Nigeria (TAMPAN) to launch disciplinary proceedings against him.
According to Sunday Scoop’s interview with actress and TAMPAN executive Rose Odika, who confirmed this incident, Olaiya will testify in front of the association’s disciplinary committee to defend his actions.
Odika claims that despite being called, the actor has not yet arrived to appear before the disciplinary body.
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When questioned if Olaiya had breached any rules of engagement for TAMPAN members supporting politicians, Odika, the governor of the TAMPAN branch in Oyo State, said that actors are free to express their political preferences.
He is free to back anybody he wants, but in Odika’s words, “we have the moral justification angle.” We’re looking at the ethics of that commercial (video). His political affiliation has nothing to do with it. He disregarded the rules of behavior established by the business as well as by our group.
“People have the free will to pick who they wish to support. Since we were first citizens before becoming actors, we have every right to participate in politics and the administration of our nation.
The actor has previously denied knowing anything about a purported disciplinary action TAPMAN had taken against him.
When discussing the topic with Sunday Scoop, Olaiya replied, “I don’t know who discussed that with you.” I was not informed of anything related to that. God bless you.
Pulse reports that after a video of Olaiya fervently praying for Tinubu to win the upcoming presidential election went viral, he faced severe backlash on social media.