Nollywood actress Yvonne Jegede has criticised the Nigerian government over the country’s security challenges, accusing authorities of lacking compassion and failing to reassure citizens that their lives matter.
The actress made the remarks in a post on her Instagram page, in which she addressed President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, expressing concern over the growing fear among Nigerians.
Jegede argued that while crime exists in every part of the world, the situation in Nigeria is particularly troubling because many citizens believe that when they become victims, there is little hope that anyone will come to their aid.
According to her, the recurring incidents affecting communities across the country have cut across ethnic, religious, and social divides, making the issue a national concern rather than one affecting a specific group.
The actress stated that Nigerians should not be treated as expendable or ignored in the face of mounting security concerns.
She maintained that the ongoing tragedies being reported across different parts of the country require urgent attention and a more humane response from those in positions of authority.
“The Nigerian government lacks a sense of humanity,” Jegede wrote, while stressing that Nigerians are not people who should be left vulnerable to criminal activities.
She further argued that the core problem is not the existence of crime itself but the widespread belief that victims are often left without adequate protection or justice.
Jegede’s latest comments come weeks after she reacted to the reported death of a teacher in Oyo State. At the time, she expressed sadness over the incident and questioned why only a limited number of people appeared to be speaking out. She also raised concerns about what she described as a lack of collective outrage over incidents affecting ordinary citizens.
The actress has been one of several entertainment figures who have recently used their platforms to call attention to insecurity and violence in the country. In an earlier post, she criticised supporters of the current administration, accusing them of ignoring the realities confronting many Nigerians and urging them to reflect on their positions.
Her remarks add to a growing list of concerns raised by prominent figures in the Nigerian film industry. Actor Muyiwa Ademola recently appealed to the government to provide stronger protection for citizens, saying many Nigerians are grieving and looking to authorities for reassurance and action.
Veteran actress Hilda Dokubo also questioned whether the government is doing enough to safeguard lives and property. She argued that the issue many citizens want addressed is whether those entrusted with leadership can effectively respond to the security challenges facing communities across the country.
Other actors have voiced similar concerns. Adeniyi Johnson publicly questioned why fear and uncertainty have become part of daily life for many Nigerians, while Funke Akindele called on authorities to strengthen the protection of children and schools. She stressed that no family should have to live under the constant threat of violence or insecurity.
Lateef Adedimeji also urged government officials to focus on resolving the crises affecting the country, warning against treating serious national issues as routine political talking points. Kunle Remi echoed similar sentiments, lamenting what he described as society’s growing tendency to normalise tragic events.
Actresses Ruth Kadiri and Lala Akindoju have likewise expressed concerns over the rising incidents of killings and kidnappings, with both calling for stronger action to protect citizens. As more voices from the entertainment industry join the conversation, the demand for improved security and greater government responsiveness continues to dominate public discourse across Nigeria.
