Nkiru Sylvanus, a renowned Nigerian actress and politician, recently opened up about the controversies surrounding her political appointment under former Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha. During an interview with The Punch, she addressed the rumors that linked her professional success to a personal relationship with the former governor. She expressed her frustration over the false narratives and how they undermined her efforts and dedication to public service.
According to The Punch, she recalled that when the rumors began circulating, she was not particularly disturbed because she knew they were untrue. However, what frustrated her most was that despite her attempts to clarify the situation, many people chose to believe the falsehood instead of the truth. This, she said, made the situation even more painful, as it seemed that her hard work and commitment were being dismissed.
Sylvanus highlighted the efforts she put into Okorocha’s campaign, emphasizing the physical and emotional sacrifices she made. She traveled extensively, visited numerous communities, spoke at political gatherings, and even engaged in fasting and prayers for the success of their movement. According to her, the opportunity to serve in government came as a result of this dedication, not due to any personal relationship with Okorocha.
Despite her achievements, she found it disheartening that people attributed her political appointment to an alleged affair rather than recognizing her contributions. She believed such assumptions were not only unfair but also diminished the significance of the work she and many other women in politics put into their careers.
She stressed that if her success were merely a result of a romantic relationship, there would have been no need for her to go through the rigorous campaign process. As a well-known actress, she could have chosen an easier path to financial success rather than enduring the demanding work of grassroots politics. Yet, she chose to build experience and make a positive impact through governance.
Sylvanus lamented the societal tendency to discredit successful women by linking their achievements to male benefactors rather than acknowledging their efforts and capabilities. She described such stereotypes as deeply frustrating and unfair, emphasizing the need for a change in mindset regarding women’s contributions to leadership and public service.
According to her, “I remember telling a journalist at the time: ‘If I were just his girlfriend, why would I be running around, working under the sun, sweating, and trying to make an impact?. I had a recognisable face, and could’ve easily made money elsewhere. Instead, I chose to work and grow my experience. The assumption that every successful woman owes her achievements to a man is deeply frustrating, and unfair.”
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