The abduction of schoolchildren and teachers from three schools in Oyo State on May 15, 2026, has reignited public debate about insecurity in Nigeria. While some prominent figures like Davido, Falz, Emeka Ike, and VeryDarkMan spoke out, the silence of others, including Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Olamide, sparked mixed reactions on social media. This article examines four possible reasons why many Nigerian celebrities shy away from speaking publicly about insecurity.
1. Fear of Prosecution and Intimidation
In June 2025, street-pop star Habeeb Okikiola, known as Portable, explained in a viral video that fear of government persecution is the main reason celebrities remain silent. According to Portable, some individuals are still being punished for past remarks. He claimed that celebrities risk arrest, harassment, or passport seizure if they openly criticize authorities. This was his response to British-Nigerian rapper Skepta's call for Nigerian celebrities to demand justice and speak out against economic hardship and insecurity. In 2021, skit maker Debo Adebayo, aka Mr Macaroni, was arrested at the Lekki tollgate after joining protesters. His silence during the 2026 insecurity wave was noted, with colleague Nasboi defending him.
2. Cancel Culture and Toxic Social Media Backlash
Cancel culture and toxic backlash on Nigerian social media deter many celebrities from addressing public issues. Davido, who spoke against insecurity on X, faced heavy criticism and trolling. Reacting to the backlash, he said, "Talk, dem go abuse you. No talk, dem go still abuse you." This double-edged sword discourages many from engaging.
3. Personal Ties and Political Affiliations
Some celebrities have close ties with the political class or are affiliated with political parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). These ties create conflicts of interest, making it difficult to take a stance on public issues. Speaking up could lead to lost shows, brand deals, and funding.
4. Perceived Privileges
Many prominent figures avoid discussing insecurity because of the privileges they enjoy. Unlike average Nigerians, they can afford lifestyles that ensure their protection, reducing their urgency to speak out. This perceived immunity leads to silence on issues affecting the masses.
The federal and state governments have stated they are working with security agencies to secure the release of the abductees unharmed. However, the silence of many celebrities continues to fuel public debate.
