Nigerian actor and skit maker Debo Adedayo, popularly known as Mr Macaroni, has explained why he has reduced his public commentary on government and political issues, saying repeated criticism, public backlash and threats linked to his activism contributed to his decision.

Mr Macaroni spoke after Wazobia FM shared a video on Tuesday featuring comments he had made about threats he received during the period of the #EndSARS protests.

The actor subsequently clarified on X that the interview was recorded more than two years ago, but said the concerns he raised at the time remained relevant.

According to him, he became increasingly frustrated with repeatedly raising the same issues without seeing what he considered meaningful collective action from Nigerians.

He said the constant cycle of citizens complaining about problems and then moving on had made him reluctant to continue repeating the same messages.

Mr Macaroni also referred to a statement he made in March 2026 in which he strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He said that period marked the point when he decided to step back from political commentary.

He explained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as an end to his views on government. Rather, he said he had become tired of repeatedly discussing the same issues.

The actor also disclosed that threats had been a recurring part of his experience since he began speaking publicly about political and social matters.

He recalled the pressure his family experienced during the #EndSARS period, saying his mother frequently called him in distress because of concerns about his safety. He said the situation became serious enough for his family to consider having him leave Nigeria.

Despite those concerns, Mr Macaroni said he rejected the idea of leaving the country.

He also described the backlash he received from some Nigerians after publicly encouraging citizens to participate in the 2023 elections and stating which candidate he intended to support.

According to him, his political comments attracted insults and criticism, while the outcome of the election further contributed to his decision to reduce his political commentary.

Mr Macaroni said he is not interested in becoming a politician and expressed concern about people he once admired who later entered politics.

He said his current break from political commentary is also an opportunity to focus on his artistic work, which he described as an important part of his life.

While acknowledging the threats he has faced, the actor said his immediate concern was no longer about repeating political messages but about allowing Nigerians to determine when they were ready to demand the changes they wanted.

He maintained that he would be prepared to speak again when he believes the circumstances require it, while continuing to concentrate on his creative work in the meantime.