Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has voiced her concern over the state of the nation, outlining the kind of transformative leadership she believes Nigeria desperately needs ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in a recent interview on Channels Television, the 48-year-old screen icon lamented the gap between Nigeria’s vast potential and its current realities.
“Nigeria is a very blessed country. We have everything that other nations want,” she said.
“But any nation can descend into chaos without laws and proper enforcement. What keeps a country sane is the rule of law, and it must start from the top.”
The Nollywood actress emphasised that the country’s progress hinges on genuine commitment from its leaders, questioning the sincerity of many in public office.
“My prayer for Nigeria is that we find leaders who are selfless. Until we find leaders in Nigeria who are ready to die for this country, we have not started,” she said.
Drawing a parallel to transformative leadership in West Africa, she cited the example of the late Ghanaian leader Jerry Rawlings, calling for a fearless and principled approach to governance.
“When you see a leader who is saying, I am ready to die, someone like a Jerry Rawlings, okay, who’s ready to put his life on the line,” she said.
The actress also expressed concern about divisive tactics undermining democracy, sharing a personal account from the 2023 general elections.
“I personally witnessed voter suppression based on tribe, and I have proof,” she said.
“I was threatened because I stood up for people who were being chased away from voting. I schooled in the North, my husband is half Igbo, I’ve worked extensively in the East, and I’m Yoruba. I’m a true Nigerian.
“Nigeria is a beautiful country. We all bring something to the table.”
