Renowned Nigerian actor, filmmaker, and politician Olumide Oworu has strongly criticized the Nigerian public for what he describes as a troubling hypocrisy in addressing crime and corruption.
In a widely circulated video statement, Oworu highlighted the stark contrast between the violent mob attacks often meted out to petty thieves and the leniency or even admiration extended to high-level looters who plunder public resources on a massive scale.
Oworu questioned why ordinary citizens, who steal small items out of desperation, face brutal jungle justice including beatings, burning, and lynching while those in positions of power who embezzle billions of naira from public funds are celebrated, protected, or allowed to escape accountability.
"This selective outrage reveals a deeper societal illness," Oworu stated. "We chase after the hungry man who takes a phone or a bag of rice, but we clap and vote for the big thieves who loot our treasury, our future, and our children's opportunities. If we truly want change, we must stop glorifying corruption at the top while demonizing survival at the bottom."
The actor, known for his roles in popular films and his active involvement in politics including his past challenge for a legislative seat emphasized that this double standard perpetuates corruption and erodes national progress. He called on Nigerians to redirect their anger toward systemic looting and demand justice equally for all, regardless of social status or political connections.
Oworu's comments, originally shared via a podcast clip on Instagram (theclarityzonepodcast), have sparked widespread discussions across social media and news platforms, with many agreeing that the criticism exposes a fundamental flaw in Nigeria's fight against corruption.
As an advocate for good governance and social equity, Oworu urged citizens, leaders, and institutions to foster a culture of accountability that does not discriminate based on the scale of the offense.