Seyi Law recently ignited debate with a straightforward post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, highlighting what many hesitate to voice:

“People reacted strongly when they saw CUBANA CHIEF PRIEST, while I can only laugh... Let TUNDE EDNUT deny that he wasn’t thrilled when Mr. President called him on his birthday… They present one face online to appease the crowd but work behind the scenes. God will hold us accountable for our hypocrisy. Time will ultimately judge us all.”

At first glance, this may appear as mere celebrity gossip. However, a deeper concern emerges: a pervasive culture of hypocrisy disguised as activism in our society.

Nigeria's social media landscape is currently flooded with influencers and celebrities who define themselves as “woke,” profiting from political outrage during the day while pursuing government contracts at night. Many have skillfully swayed public sentiment, inciting thousands to criticize President Tinubu and attack APC supporters, all while secretly seeking appointments, favors, and a “daily 2k.”

Let’s be honest: When Toyin Abraham, Eniola Badmus, or Seyi Law openly endorsed the APC, they faced intense backlash, with their families also targeted. Some members of the Obidient movement went as far as wishing harm upon them for taking a stand. Yet, when Cubana Chief Priest is spotted smiling with the president, the reaction shifts dramatically. Tunde Ednut commented, “Igbo man, sharp man, he knows what he’s after.”

Why the double standard?

Seyi Law is criticized for his honesty, while Cubana receives praise for his discreet approach. Meanwhile, Tunde Ednut, who reportedly was excited when President Tinubu called him on his birthday, now pretends to be an impartial observer on his Instagram, while actively engaging in the same political circles he critiques. If being connected is something to celebrate, why not acknowledge it publicly?

This issue transcends politics; it concerns integrity. These celebrities have urged young Nigerians to burn bridges, cut ties, and engage in online hostility in the name of political ideals, while they forge connections privately, shake hands behind closed doors, and smile at the same politicians they’ve told you to despise.

It raises an important question: if you’ve been rallied to express resentment on behalf of those secretly soliciting jobs from the very government you oppose, isn’t that a disgraceful betrayal of not just your convictions, but also your family and future?

Proverbs 9:12 teaches, “If you are wise, you are wise for yourself; if you scorn wisdom, you alone will bear it.” Yet in today’s culture centered on social recognition, foolishness is hailed as courage, and deceit garners likes and shares.

Social media is not a true reflection of reality, and political virtue-signaling is not genuine activism. In truth, those who articulate their thoughts honestly, like Seyi Law, may be contentious, but at least their stance is consistent. The real threat lies in those who wear façades by day and seek power privately by night.

It's time we stop conflating noise with integrity and performance with principles. If you want to criticize, be forthright. Don’t mislead us by pretending to be an oppositional force when you’re simply waiting for your own opportunity.

Ultimately, as Seyi Law stated, time not Twitter will reveal the truth about us all.

Comrade Bamidele Atoyebi, a philanthropist, social commentator, and developmental activist of the BAT Ideological Group, wrote this from Abuja.