Comedian and social media personality, Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi aka Mr Jollof, has defended the viral brand-new Toyota Prado vehicles reportedly earmarked for the All Progressives Congress’ campaign mobilisation, saying they were donations from individuals who benefited from President Bola Tinubu.
Mr Jollof, in a video that circulated on Tuesday, dismissed claims that public funds were used to buy the vehicles, insisting that wealthy individuals were contributing their personal resources to support the President’s re-election bid.
“If I have money today, I can decide to support the All Progressives Congress with 50 Prados, Lexus LS600; it is my money, and I can support in any way to enhance their victory.
“I know a man who has bought more than 20 brand-new Toyota Hiace buses, which will be used to campaign around the country. Yesterday, at his Abuja house, there were 10 already that he wants to give in support of the election.”
“He has spent over N3bn on buses to aid the election. It is from his pocket, just like others, because President Bola Tinubu has made men.”
Mr Jollof said the donations were legitimate contributions from individuals who wanted to support the APC’s campaign, accusing critics of spreading misleading narratives about the vehicles.
“I don’t know why people are creating unnecessary narratives. The false narrative on social media is becoming alarming, and we won’t let lies prevail during this time of election.
“Any vehicle that you see with the APC emblem is supported by people. So support your candidate with your time and resources,” he added.
Explaining his own contribution to the President’s political ambition, the comedian said he lacked the financial capacity to donate vehicles but was supporting Tinubu through his personal efforts.
“Like me, I don’t have money to give, but I’m using my body and strength to support President Tinubu and the Delta governor,” he said.
He further warned against presenting the vehicles as evidence of the diversion of public funds, insisting that individuals were free to deploy their resources in support of their preferred candidates.
“Some people are using their money. Don’t whitewash or misinform the general public. It is very, very wrong,” he said.
He maintained, “If Israel posts Prados to aid their election mobilisation, it doesn’t mean that they moved the money from Nigeria’s account. They are donations from individuals that Tinubu has made.”
“Nobody took money from Nigeria’s coffers to buy a vehicle for election purposes. Put your money where your mouth is.”
Recall that controversy trailed a post by the APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, on X, showing Toyota Prado vehicles reportedly intended for the party’s campaign mobilisation.
The post was subsequently deleted, drawing attention and speculation on social media about the source of funding for the vehicles.
The development sparked debate among Nigerians, with questions raised about whether the vehicles were purchased with private donations or public funds.