Popular Nigerian comedian and activist, Mr Macaroni (real name Debo Adebayo), has lashed out at some of his fellow EndSARS protesters, accusing them of abandoning the movement’s ideals and cozying up to the same political elites they once criticized.
In a blunt social media post that quickly gained traction, Mr Macaroni said, “The boys wey shout and cry during EndSARS have started kissing the asses of the same politicians they criticized.” The statement sparked a wave of reactions online, with many interpreting it as a thinly veiled jab at young activists who have transitioned into mainstream politics or aligned themselves with the establishment since the protests.
Mr Macaroni, who rose to prominence as one of the most vocal figures during the 2020 EndSARS movement against police brutality, has remained consistent in his criticism of government officials and what he describes as a “system built on oppression, impunity, and selective justice.”
Though he did not name individuals, his comments reflect growing disillusionment among some activists who feel the EndSARS momentum has been diluted by political co-optation. Some of the same youth voices that rallied against police brutality are now seen attending political events, endorsing candidates, or remaining silent in the face of abuses they once condemned.
Mr Macaroni’s post was met with mixed reactions. While many praised him for “staying true to the cause,” others accused him of being judgmental or out of touch with the complexities of political engagement.
In response to the backlash, Mr Macaroni maintained that his criticism was not against political participation itself but against hypocrisy and betrayal of the collective struggle for justice and accountability.
“Let’s be clear,” he wrote in a follow-up post, “I’m not against young people in politics. I’m against pretense and betrayal of the very people whose pain gave you a voice.”
As Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections, conversations about youth activism, political integrity, and co-optation are expected to intensify.
