Nigerian comedian and filmmaker Ayo Makun has addressed speculations about shading his female colleagues, including Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham.
According to Famous9ja,AY, who recently premiered his highly anticipated film The Waiter, expressed frustration over the lack of support from his peers. He lamented how men often prioritize supporting women with physical appeal over hardworking male counterparts striving to stay relevant and fulfill their responsibilities. AY also asserted that he remains one of the few men in filmmaking pushing forward despite the challenges, vowing to personally promote his movie.
However, his statement was misinterpreted as a criticism of his female colleagues, who are currently achieving significant success at the box office.
To clear the air, AY took to Instagram, explaining that his comments were not directed at his female counterparts, all of whom have supported and encouraged him. Instead, his post was aimed at men who habitually support women over their own gender. He emphasized the importance of brotherhood among men, highlighting how mutual support fosters emotional and mental growth while uplifting everyone.
“Taking people’s points out of context is always easy and good for content in the social media space.
And I repeat, “WEY TIN MAN DO MAN?” Begging your fellow male actors to join you in promoting your film shouldn’t be a big deal. Especially when I have always positioned myself to do the same for everyone. Do you know how frustrating it is to pay actors who end up promoting other films and abandoning the one that they are in… EVEN with signed contracts?
My last tweet has nothing to do with the hardworking women who are winning in the industry as they all have my direct support and encouragement to date. In our journey towards a more equitable and compassionate society, it’s crucial to recognize that support must extend across all genders, MEN SHOULD ALSO SUPPORT MEN.
I can’t be judged for coming out to say my mind. Too often, societal expectations dictate how men should behave—stoic, strong, and self-reliant. Being quiet as men when we face challenges and struggles is the reason why many of us die before our time. If I say to you that I have a good film that demands the support of my fellow men, kindly join me in fostering an environment where I can feel empowered to share my vulnerabilities, fears, and challenges that will break down unforeseen barriers.
The women in the business are my friends, and nothing has changed. Asking for help from my colleagues directly or indirectly should be seen as a strength, not a weakness. When men support each other, we cultivate brotherhood that uplifts everyone, allowing us to grow emotionally and mentally just the way @basketmouth and I are doing at the moment.
Let’s commit to being allies to one another. Let’s show up, listen, and support each other with the same fervor we extend to women. Together, we can redefine what it means to be strong and create a community where every man feels valued and heard.
THE WAITER IS SHOWING IN CINEMAS NATIONWIDE”.
And i repeat, “WEY TIN MAN DO MAN?” Begging your fellow male actors to join you in promoting your film shouldn’t be a big deal. Especially when i have always been doing the same for everyone. Do you know how frustrating it is to pay actors who end up promoting other films and… pic.twitter.com/Py9I6SuuAm— AY COMEDIAN (@AYCOMEDIAN) December 24, 2024