Breaking: Another Nollywood Veteran Actor Declares His Political Ambition
- Emeka Ike, a Nigerian movie star, has announced his ambition for the House of Representatives in 2027 elections
- The movie star said he aims to enhance governance and accountability for grassroots Nigerians if elected
- The development marks a growing trend of entertainers declaring their political ambitions ahead of the forthcoming elections
Veteran Nollywood actor Emeka Ike has officially declared his intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections, marking his return to active political engagement after years in the entertainment industry.
The actor announced that he will be running for the Abuja Municipal/Bwari federal constituency under the platform of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC).
Source: Twitter
Emeka Ike outlines political ambition
Speaking on his decision, Ike said his ambition is driven by a desire to contribute to structured national development and improve governance across key sectors.
He emphasised the need for a more organised system that delivers tangible benefits to citizens at the grassroots level.
“I am running for the federal house of representatives under the Bwari federal constituency in Abuja,” he said.
Ike: ‘We want to make a statement’
The actor explained that his entry into politics is also aimed at pushing for greater accountability and better representation for Nigerians.
“We want to make a statement. I want to step into the real thing right now if I have made you, Nigerians, happy,” he said.
“Let us see how we bring dividends close to you. Let us block the boys who think they have the power. If we stand they will run.”
Campaign begins after primaries victory
A video circulating online showed Ike receiving his nomination form from party officials, signalling the formal start of his campaign activities.
A member of his campaign team also confirmed that the actor had emerged winner of the NDC primaries and is preparing for the 2027 elections.
This is not the first time the Nollywood star has ventured into politics.
In 2018, he contested for a House of Representatives seat under the Young Progressive Party (YPP), representing Ideato South local government area of Imo state.
2027: Analyst cautions Emeka Ike
A political analyst Samuel Aye, while speaking with Legit.ng on Thursday, May 28, cautioned Nollywood actor Emeka Ike against relying on celebrity status ahead of the 2027 elections, reminding him of the criticism faced by fellow actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot during his time in office.
Aye noted that popularity in entertainment does not automatically translate into political support or effective representation, stressing that Emeka Ike must work hard to earn the trust of voters.
“Desmond Elliot’s experience should serve as a lesson. Fame may attract attention, but governance requires capacity, connection with the people and consistent grassroots engagement,” the analyst said.
Growing trend of entertainers in politics
Ike’s latest move adds to the increasing number of Nigerian entertainers seeking elective office ahead of the next election cycle.
The actor, who gained fame in the 1990s with films such as Deadly Affair, remains one of Nollywood’s most recognisable figures, having worked alongside several top industry stars.
He returned to the screen in 2023 with a role in Malaika, produced by Toyin Abraham, after a period away from active filmmaking.
Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
