Regina Daniels Nwoko, an actress, has reacted to criticism she received from Nigerians for speaking out against violence during the current demonstration against bad governance.

The actress had posted videos to social media pleading with people to refrain from turning the protest violent. She received backlash on social media for making the statement, though, with some people claiming that the reason she is speaking up is simply because she is married to a senator who is significantly older than she is.

In response to the critiques, Regina alerted Nigerians about the situation in the North, where some people have been flying the Russian flag and pleading with the Russian government to “come and save them,” via a video that was posted on Instagram this morning.

The mother of two asked whether this was what Nigerians wanted.

‘’Hoisting the Russian flag! Is that what we want? Mind you, whatever happens in the North can get to you. I preached against violence and ignorant Nigerians said it’s because I am privileged and opportune. Yes the fact remains that I am privileged and opportuned  but that doesn’t stop me from understanding that my nanny  needs to be paid extra or that my gateman or my cooks need to be catered for because of insecurity and extra bills to be paid in Nigeria.

The point remains that Nigeria cannot be changed in a day and not by one man. I am not speaking for the government, neither am I speaking for you people to love me because I don’t need it. I am just stating the obvious fact and that is the truth. 

The earlier we all realize that this protest is turning into something else, the better for us all”