Nigerian actor and content creator, Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as Cute Abiola, has issued an apology to former First Lady Patience Jonathan over her viral emotional video.
The incident dates back to the period of the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapping, when members of Boko Haram abducted schoolgirls during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
At the time, Patience Jonathan became emotional while reacting to the situation, shedding tears in a video that later circulated widely on social media. Over time, the clip was turned into a meme and frequently used online to mock her.
In a recent Instagram post, Cute Abiola reflected on the incident and expressed regret over how it was handled by the public.
He noted that, contrary to how it was later portrayed, the former First Lady was deeply concerned and was actually warning Nigerians about the gravity of the situation at the time.
He further stated that her emotional reaction reflected genuine empathy for the abducted schoolgirls and their families, rather than weakness or comedy as it was later interpreted by many online users.
The comedian pointed out that kidnapping has become an increasingly common problem in Nigeria, adding that many people are only now realising in hindsight that her emotional reaction was not a sign of weakness.
He went on to apologise and prayed for the safe rescue of abducted children, as well as comfort for their families.
Fans agree with Cute Abiola
In response, several social media users commended Patience Jonathan, describing her as one of Nigeria’s most notable former First Ladies. Others also referenced Stella Obasanjo and Mariam Babangida as some of the country’s most respected past First Ladies.
Many commenters also offered prayers for children still in captivity and called on the government to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity and better protect citizens.
See the post below
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Here are some of the reactions from netizens:
@kimkimani____ reacted: “This woman was crying then, but Nigerians were busy making fun of her English. We are sorry, Iya rere.”
@ola_siimonni commented: “She knows what she was saying; she was talking directly to the government that was using terrorism to disturb her husband’s administration. Truly, there is God ooo.”Â
@bint_maryeam shared: “Upon all the memes, jokes, and mockery, there was no arrest. Freedom of speech really existed then…you are really a mum indeed, we love you.”
@muibim wrote: “People don’t appreciate what they have until they lose it. May Almighty heal our lands.”
@ijesaekun said: “We mock her then, but now we appreciate what we miss.”
@seyi_martins1 stated: “Best First Lady after Maryam Babangida. I just love that woman, may she rest in peace”Â
