Nollywood actress and aspiring politician Doris Ogala has drawn widespread attention after leading a protest in Abia State under the slogan “Tinubu Must Go,” while reaffirming her ambition to contest for Abia state governorship election in 2027.
This incident reportedly took place on Wednesday, Ogala marching through the streets of umuahia alongside a large number of supporters carrying placards and chanting slogans critical of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Videos and photographs from the protest have since circulated widely across social media, generating significant public discussion. The exact turnout at the event could not be independently verified.
Ogala, who is reportedly aligned with the African Action Congress (AAC), used the gathering to restate her determination to contest the 2027 governorship election in Abia State. She declared that her goal is to challenge incumbent Governor Alex Otti and present what she described as an alternative vision for the state’s future.
Addressing the crowd during the rally, the actress criticised the current political leadership at both the federal and state levels, arguing that many Nigerians are seeking a new direction. She urged residents of Abia State to support her movement, saying her administration, if elected, would prioritise improved governance, accountability and policies aimed at addressing the everyday challenges faced by citizens.
The protest quickly became a trending topic on social media, with numerous videos and eyewitness accounts shared across various platforms. Supporters praised Ogala for taking an active role in politics and encouraging civic participation, while others questioned the timing and objectives of the demonstration.
Political analysts have suggested that the protest could signal the beginning of early political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections. Although campaigns for the election are still some time away, several politicians and political groups have already begun positioning themselves and engaging with prospective voters across different parts of the country.
The actress’ decision to openly campaign against the current administration has also fuelled debate over the growing involvement of celebrities in Nigerian politics. In recent years, entertainers have increasingly used their public influence to advocate for political reforms, endorse candidates or seek elective office themselves.
Reactions to Ogala’s governorship ambition have remained divided. While her supporters insist she has the passion and determination to bring meaningful change to Abia State, critics argue that defeating an incumbent governor would require broad political support, a well-established grassroots structure and sustained engagement with voters across the state.
Supporters of Governor Alex Otti have also defended his administration, maintaining that the governor should be assessed based on his performance in office before any conclusions are drawn ahead of the next election. They argue that it is too early for political campaigns and that governance should remain the priority.
Meanwhile, the “Tinubu Must Go” slogan featured prominently throughout the protest, reflecting dissatisfaction expressed by some participants over the country’s economic and political situation. However, others on social media viewed the demonstration as part of a broader strategy to increase public awareness of Ogala’s political aspirations rather than solely a protest against the federal government.
As of the time this report was filed, neither the Abia State Government nor representatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had issued an official response to the protest or the statements attributed to Ogala. Likewise, there has been no formal reaction from Governor Alex Otti regarding the actress’ declaration of intent to contest the 2027 governorship election.
With the next election cycle still months away, political observers expect similar public engagements, consultations and advocacy campaigns to increase as prospective candidates seek to build momentum ahead of the official commencement of political campaigns. The development has continued to attract mixed reactions online, highlighting the growing intersection of entertainment, activism and politics in Nigeria.
