Veteran Yoruba actor, Tajudeen Oyewole, popularly known as Abija, has sparked a social media frenzy after a TikTok video of him seeking financial aid went viral. The 66-year-old actor, famous for his roles in Yoruba movies, appealed to his fans for financial assistance in a video that has generated widespread conversation across social media platforms.
This is not Abija's first public appeal for financial aid. In July 2023, he requested a car from his fans during a Facebook Live session, citing his embarrassment at arriving at movie sets without a vehicle.
Abija's viral TikTok video shows him dressed in traditional attire, sitting in front of an unpainted fence, and offering prayers for his fans while requesting financial assistance. A voice in the background mentions sharing his account number, and he expresses gratitude to those who have donated.
The actor's appeal has sparked a debate about the financial struggles faced by veteran actors in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Many have publicly sought financial assistance over the years, including Margret Olayinka, Lalude, Alapini Osa, and Olusola Olaonipekunz.
However, the National President of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Bolaji 'Mr Latin' Amusan, declined to comment on the matter, stating that Abija is an adult capable of making his own decisions.
Abija's TikTok account can also earn income through virtual gifts (diamonds) from viewers, which can be redeemed for money. Despite this, the actor's public appeal highlights the financial challenges faced by many veteran actors in the industry.