Veteran Nollywood actress and social activist Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has revealed that her children received death threats during the height of the EndSARS protests, describing the experience as a defining moment in her advocacy journey.
Speaking in an interview on Rubbin’ Minds, a programme aired on Channels Television, the 48-year-old actress reflected on the emotional and psychological toll the threats had on her family. She explained that while she had grown accustomed to personal threats due to her outspoken activism, the targeting of her children was unprecedented and deeply unsettling.
Omotola stated that throughout her years of public engagement and social commentary, she had received numerous threats. However, she described the period during the EndSARS protests as particularly intense. According to her, the situation escalated when her children began receiving threatening messages, signalling that the issue had moved beyond personal risk.
The EndSARS movement, which gained nationwide and international attention in 2020, emerged as a youth-led protest against police brutality, particularly allegations of abuse by the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad. The demonstrations drew widespread participation from civil society groups, entertainers and activists who demanded reforms and accountability.
Omotola was among several prominent figures who publicly supported calls for change. Her involvement, she said, came with consequences that extended into her private life. She disclosed that individuals began appearing at her residence and workplace in search of her, heightening concerns about her family’s safety.
According to the actress, this shift marked a turning point. She realised that the risks were no longer limited to her personal security but had expanded to those closest to her. Protecting her children became a priority that reshaped her approach to activism.
She noted that while she may have accepted the risks associated with speaking out, she could not disregard the safety of her children. As they grow older and become more independent, she explained, ensuring their protection becomes increasingly challenging.
Omotola emphasised that she does not fear for her own life but feels a deep responsibility toward her family. The threats directed at her children prompted her to reconsider participating in street protests and other highly visible forms of activism.
Instead, she indicated a shift toward more strategic and focused engagement, suggesting that advocacy can take multiple forms beyond physical demonstrations. This approach, she implied, allows her to continue contributing to social discourse while reducing potential exposure for her family.
The revelations highlight the complex realities faced by public figures who engage in socio-political advocacy. In environments where tensions run high, outspoken individuals may encounter backlash that extends beyond professional criticism to personal intimidation.
Observers note that during the EndSARS protests, several activists and public personalities reported harassment, online threats and security concerns. The intensity of the demonstrations, combined with heightened political sensitivity, created a volatile atmosphere across the country.
For Omotola, the experience underscores the delicate balance between civic responsibility and personal security. As a prominent actress with decades of influence in Nollywood, her voice carries significant weight, particularly among young Nigerians.
Over the years, she has built a reputation not only as a film icon but also as a social commentator unafraid to address governance, youth empowerment and national development issues. Her involvement in public discourse has earned both admiration and criticism.
The decision to adopt a more measured advocacy strategy reflects a broader debate within activist circles about sustainable engagement. Some argue that direct protest is essential for visibility and pressure, while others advocate for policy-focused, behind-the-scenes efforts that can achieve incremental change.
Omotola’s account also raises broader questions about the protection of activists and their families. Civil society organisations have frequently called for stronger safeguards to ensure that individuals exercising their constitutional rights are not subjected to intimidation or violence.
While she did not detail specific incidents beyond the threats, her comments shed light on the personal cost that activism can carry, particularly for those with families.
As Nigeria continues to navigate conversations around reform, accountability and civic participation, stories such as Omotola’s provide insight into the human dimension behind public movements.
Her reflections suggest that activism evolves with circumstance. For her, safeguarding her children has become a central consideration in determining how she contributes to national dialogue moving forward.
Africa Live News will continue to monitor developments related to civic advocacy and public discourse across the continent.
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