Comedian and social media personality Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi, known as Mr. Jollof, has come to the defense of the viral brand-new Toyota Prado vehicles reportedly set aside for the All Progressives Congress’ campaign mobilization, stating that they were donations from individuals who benefited from President Bola Tinubu.
In a video that circulated on Tuesday, Mr. Jollof rejected claims that public funds were used to purchase the vehicles, maintaining that wealthy individuals were donating their personal resources to back the president’s re-election bid.
“If I have money today, I can decide to support the All Progressives Congress with 50 Prados and a Lexus LS600; it is my money, and I can support it 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 stated that 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.
Speaking about how he helped advance the president’s political ambition, the comedian explained that he did not have the money to donate vehicles, but that he was backing Tinubu through his own 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 also 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 mobilization, 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 a post by the APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, on X stirred controversy by showing Toyota Prado vehicles said to be intended for the party’s campaign mobilization.
The post was later deleted, which drew attention and prompted speculation on social media about where the funding for the vehicles came from.
The incident ignited debate among Nigerians, with questions raised over whether the vehicles were bought with private donations or public funds.
