Veteran Nollywood actor Ejike Asiegbu has issued an apology to Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma following a social media video in which he and fellow actress Uche Nnanna-Maduka criticized the governor.
The incident began when Uche Nnanna-Maduka posted a video on social media condemning Governor Uzodinma for a power outage at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Imo. The video also featured notable actors such as Fred Amata, Gloria Nobert Young, Grace Amah, and Keppy Ekpenyong, who supported Nnanna-Maduka’s statements.
In the video, Nnanna-Maduka strongly criticized the administration, saying, “They said we have to claim our luggage at the compound because there is no light at Imo Airport. This is Nigeria in 2024. This is wrong and unacceptable. Who is ruling this state? What are we doing? In 2024, no lights at the airport. Imo state, shame on you. See our Sam Mbakwe Airport. Hope Uzodinma, look at us.”
Governor Uzodinma’s chief press secretary, Oguwuike Nwachuku, responded by accusing Nnanna-Maduka of being hired to defame the governor through a newspaper article.
In a subsequent viral statement, Ejike Asiegbu apologized on behalf of his colleagues and addressed Nwachuku’s accusations. Asiegbu stated, “I most respectfully apologise on behalf of my colleague Uchenna Maduka to my brother, friend, elder statesman, and governor, Chief Dr. Hope Uzodinma for the embarrassment this video may have caused him. Let me state for the records that we are men and women of honour and integrity. We are not swayed by apples and carrots as Mr. Oguwike has maliciously adduced.”
This apology follows a report that Nnanna-Maduka also expressed regret for filming the video, aiming to mend relations and clarify their position as individuals of integrity.
