Omanghana
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has clarified her decision to reject an appointment to the Lagos State All Progressives Congress Campaign Council, stating that her name was included on the list without her prior knowledge or consent.
The actress dismissed suggestions that she withdrew from the council because she was afraid of renewed criticism from social media users.
According to Abraham, she only became aware of the appointment after the campaign council list had been made public. She explained that she had not been consulted before her name was added and had not agreed to participate in the political campaign.
Her clarification followed online discussions linking her rejection of the appointment to the intense criticism she had previously received for openly supporting a political candidate.
Abraham said her decision was based on a personal determination to stay away from political activities rather than a desire to avoid online trolls.
The actress noted that her earlier involvement in politics exposed her to severe social media attacks, insults and threats that affected her and members of her family.
Despite that experience, she insisted that fear of online criticism was not the immediate reason for declining the latest appointment. She maintained that it was inappropriate for her name to be associated with a campaign structure without her approval.
Abraham said she was no longer interested in participating in partisan politics and wanted to concentrate on her career, family and other personal responsibilities.
The filmmaker has previously spoken about the emotional consequences of being repeatedly attacked online because of her political choices. Her experience became part of a broader debate about political intolerance, celebrity endorsements and harassment on social media.
Public figures in Nigeria often face intense scrutiny after openly supporting political parties or candidates. While some celebrities use their platforms to campaign, others have become more cautious because of the potential effect on their careers, businesses and personal safety.
Abraham’s rejection also raises questions about the practice of placing prominent personalities on campaign committees without first obtaining their consent.
She stressed that public figures should be consulted before their names are announced as members of political organizations, since such appointments can create the impression that they have endorsed a party or candidate.
The actress reaffirmed that her decision should not be interpreted as an attack on the APC or any political figure. She said it reflected her choice to step away from politics and avoid further partisan engagements.
Abraham is expected to focus on her work in Nollywood, where she has built a successful career as an actress, producer and filmmaker.
Source: Omanghana
