Yul Edochie Recalls Anambra Governorship Campaign, Highlights Stark Contrast Between Politicians and Supporters

 

Nollywood actor-turned-politician Yul Edochie has stirred public reflection with a revealing post about his experience during the 2017 Anambra State governorship election. The filmmaker and controversial public figure took to social media platform X to share what he described as a "striking observation" from his brief but bold foray into the political arena.

Though known for making headlines — often for his outspoken nature or personal choices — this time, Edochie offered a sobering perspective on the political climate he encountered during the campaign season. His comments shed light on an often-overlooked paradox within Nigerian politics: while politicians themselves may operate in mutual respect, their supporters tend to engage in bitter, sometimes violent, rivalries.

“When I ran for Governor of Anambra in 2017, I noticed something,” he began. “All the governorship candidates were all friendly, including the sitting Governor. The few times we all met, there was always mutual respect in the air amidst jokes. Funny, na the supporters dey fight up & down.”

His statement has since gained traction, drawing reactions from social media users who found his words both insightful and relatable. A number of commenters echoed his sentiments, pointing out the irony of political divisions in Nigeria.

@hyundaisplash remarked, “Only wise people will see sense in what you just tweeted,” suggesting that many fail to understand the true nature of political rivalry. Another user, @dannyliv12, took a more scathing tone, writing, “Smh for the fools who kills themselves all in the name of fighting for party,” implying that political fanaticism is misguided and self-destructive.

Adding a touch of humor, @real_stqinless commented, “Supporters way mumu 😀😀😀😀,” using a colloquial phrase to criticize those who take political allegiance to harmful extremes.

Edochie’s remarks come at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with growing political polarization, particularly among the electorate. Violence during elections, inflammatory rhetoric online, and deep tribal and party-line divisions often characterize the political atmosphere, overshadowing any sense of unity or mutual respect.

Despite his celebrity status and lack of political experience, Edochie’s 2017 campaign was met with enthusiasm from young Nigerians who saw him as a symbol of change and generational shift. Although he did not win, his participation ignited discussions around youth involvement in politics and the potential for celebrities to transition into governance roles.

His recent reflection may serve as a subtle call for supporters to approach politics with greater wisdom and restraint. The reality he outlines — that politicians often maintain cordial relationships while their followers engage in heated, and sometimes violent, confrontations — is not unique to Anambra or even Nigeria. It reflects a broader global trend where political identity often becomes a source of division among ordinary citizens more than it is among the politicians themselves.

Yul Edochie’s insight may not change the landscape of Nigerian politics overnight, but it does provoke a necessary conversation about the role of voters and the performative nature of political rivalry. His message appears to urge supporters to reconsider their emotional investment in political battles that may not be as fierce behind closed doors as they are on the streets or social media.

As the next election cycle looms and new political aspirants begin to emerge, perhaps more voices like Edochie’s will challenge the status quo — not just by contesting for office, but by challenging the narratives that perpetuate division and misunderstanding among the very people politicians claim to serve.