Popular Nigerian comedian and activist Adebowale Adedayo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, has announced he will pursue legal action against a supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who made false sexual assault allegations against him.
The False Accusation That Sparked Outrage
The controversy began when an X user, identified by Mr Macaroni as an APC supporter, published a tweet accusing the activist of sexually violating a 17-year-old girl several years ago. The user further claimed that Mr Macaroni had used the police to silence the victim's family and suppress the case.
Mr Macaroni responded directly to these allegations through his official X account, acknowledging that he typically ignores such inflammatory posts to avoid giving them visibility. However, he explained that the serious nature of this particular accusation compelled him to address it publicly.
Mr Macaroni's Strong Response
In his detailed statement, the activist made it clear that he views this incident as part of a pattern of attacks from APC supporters. He stated that these attacks typically intensify whenever he criticizes what he described as the "evil government" of the ruling party.
The comedian expressed particular outrage that someone would weaponize false rape allegations simply because he exercises his civic duty to hold the government accountable. He emphasized that any sane individual should never use such serious accusations as political propaganda.
Mr Macaroni revealed that he investigated the accuser's profile and found a pattern of behavior that involved praising President Tinubu and the government while attacking anyone who dares to criticize them. He described the individual as a "raving lunatic" whose actions could spread what he called the "disease" of such behavior in society.
Call for Information and Future Actions
The activist has called on the public to provide any information that could help identify the individual behind the false accusations. He emphasized the importance of taking legal action against such "deranged individuals" to prevent them from continuing to spread harmful misinformation.
Mr Macaroni used the opportunity to strongly refute not only this specific allegation but also any future false accusations he expects from what he termed "infested supporters" of the APC. He made it clear that he has no intention of stopping his criticism of the government despite these attacks.
The incident highlights the increasingly tense relationship between Nigerian activists and political supporters in the digital space. Mr Macaroni's decision to pursue legal action rather than simply ignore the allegations demonstrates a growing trend of public figures taking stronger measures against online defamation.
