Nollywood actor and member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Saidi Balogun, claims that the ruling party remains committed to supporting his ailing colleague, Zack Orji.
Balogun, who is also the assistant spokesperson of the Performing and Creative Art Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, disclosed in an interview with Punch.
According to him, the APC-led Nigerian government is actively working to assist Orji, a staunch supporter of the party, during his health challenges.
“We are doing what we can. The authorities concerned were there and they did not abandon him, they rose up to the occasion. Before we can even stretch our hands, they (party) are stretching all their body to make sure he is okay.
“They will do the needful, because whatever we do, people are watching us. They are up to the task. If not, we would have heard a cry from the actor,” he said.
Addressing the challenges faced by Orji and other entertainers for supporting President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 elections, Balogun revealed that they encounter backlash, including reduced job opportunities as some producers hesitate to hire them due to their political affiliations.
He expressed his hope that their efforts in supporting Tinubu’s candidacy would be fruitful for both him and the nation, emphasizing that their actions were driven by the belief that Tinubu could contribute to the country’s progress.
Balogun said; “We get a lot of backlash. As a matter of fact, some producers no longer call us for work, because they belong to the opposition. But, before I came into the ‘war’, I was prepared.”
“I only pray that what they are blasting me for would be fruitful to me and the people too. We did it for a purpose. I saw that this person (Tinubu) could help move the country forward.”
Meanwhile, concerned fans and fellow celebrities have been expressing their anxiety and sending heartfelt prayers for ailing Nollywood actor, Zack Orji.