“You Have Set a Very Dangerous Precedent” – Mr Macaroni Slams Abike Dabiri Over Kwam1 Apology Tweet

Popular Nigerian comedian and activist, Mr Macaroni, has taken a strong swipe at the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for publicly posting an apology letter from Fuji music legend, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as Kwam1. The controversy erupted after Dabiri took to her official X (formerly Twitter) account to share the veteran singer’s apology over an alleged incident that had gone viral online. While she praised Kwam1 for being “honourable enough” to apologise, the move did not sit well with many Nigerians, including Mr Macaroni, who accused her of setting a dangerous precedent that could undermine justice and accountability in public office.

The drama began when news broke of an alleged altercation involving Kwam1, with reports suggesting that the singer’s actions had stirred public outrage. In the midst of the social media storm, Abike Dabiri stepped in, posting the singer’s written apology on her platform alongside commendations for his decision to make amends. But for Mr Macaroni, known for his unapologetic stance on social justice, the act of broadcasting such an apology from an influential public figure raised troubling questions. He argued that as the head of a government agency, Dabiri should be careful not to create an impression that certain individuals can escape due process simply by issuing a public apology—especially when the matter concerns conduct that many Nigerians view as serious.

Taking to X, Mr Macaroni wrote: “With all due respect ma, you have set a very dangerous precedent with this tweet. Public officers must be seen to be fair and impartial, not to give the impression that influential individuals can bypass accountability through private settlements or public apologies.” His words quickly went viral, sparking a fierce debate among Nigerians about the role of public officials in mediating disputes involving celebrities and other high-profile figures.

Many social media users sided with Mr Macaroni, arguing that while apology and reconciliation are admirable, it is not the duty of a federal agency head to publicly endorse such actions in a way that could be perceived as partiality. They stressed that Nigeria’s justice system already suffers from a credibility crisis, with many believing that the rich and powerful often escape consequences for their actions. For them, Dabiri’s tweet inadvertently reinforced that perception. Others, however, defended Dabiri’s actions, noting that the incident was not a criminal matter per se and that her decision to share the apology might have been aimed at promoting peace and de-escalating tensions. Some fans of Kwam1 praised the Fuji star for being humble enough to apologise, saying such acts should be encouraged rather than criticised.

But critics pointed out that the problem was not Kwam1’s apology itself—it was the optics of a government official amplifying it. They argued that by sharing the apology, Dabiri effectively gave it an official stamp of approval, making it seem like the matter had been officially resolved without due scrutiny. The concerns gained more weight given that Dabiri’s agency, NIDCOM, is supposed to focus on the welfare of Nigerians abroad, not necessarily domestic celebrity disputes. For many, this was a case of misplaced priorities, with some questioning why she was getting involved at all.

Mr Macaroni’s intervention reignited conversations about the blurred lines between Nigeria’s political elite, celebrities, and government agencies. His stance reflects a growing demand among young Nigerians for public officials to maintain a clear separation between personal relationships and their official duties. The comedian’s rebuke also underscores a wider frustration about perceived double standards in how laws and rules are applied in the country. If ordinary citizens are expected to face consequences for certain actions, why should prominent individuals get a different treatment simply because they are famous or influential?

The online debate intensified as political commentators, journalists, and everyday Nigerians weighed in. Some insisted that Dabiri’s post was harmless and in line with promoting a culture of forgiveness, while others called for stricter boundaries in the conduct of government officials on social media. A few also accused Mr Macaroni of blowing the issue out of proportion, claiming that the comedian himself has personal biases when it comes to public matters. But supporters of his view noted that this was not about personal feelings toward Kwam1 or Dabiri—it was about the principle of public accountability.

This is not the first time Mr Macaroni has clashed with government officials over issues of justice and fairness. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of the most vocal entertainers speaking out against what he perceives as societal injustice. From his role in the #EndSARS protests to his repeated criticisms of political corruption, he has consistently positioned himself as an advocate for a Nigeria where rules apply equally to everyone. His criticism of Dabiri fits into that broader pattern, showing that he is willing to challenge even respected public figures when he believes they are in the wrong.

For Abike Dabiri, the backlash presents a delicate moment. Known for her decades-long career in journalism and her work in public service, she has cultivated an image of empathy and accessibility. But as this episode shows, the same accessibility that endears her to some can also open her up to criticism when her actions are perceived as partial. In an era where public officials’ statements—especially on social media—are scrutinised for both tone and substance, this kind of controversy can linger and shape public perception.

The incident also reveals the evolving power dynamics between Nigerian celebrities and public institutions. With platforms like X giving entertainers and influencers direct access to millions, they no longer have to rely solely on traditional media to tell their side of the story. At the same time, government officials are increasingly using these platforms to engage directly with the public, sometimes in ways that blur the line between personal and official communication. This makes it even more important for such officials to exercise caution and maintain neutrality, as their words and actions can have unintended consequences.

As the dust continues to settle, one thing is clear: this episode has sparked a national conversation about the responsibilities of public officials in the age of social media, the dangers of perceived bias, and the importance of upholding fairness even in seemingly small matters. Whether or not Dabiri’s tweet will have long-term repercussions for her reputation remains to be seen, but for now, it has become yet another example of how quickly social media can turn an attempt at peacemaking into a controversy.

For Mr Macaroni, the matter is about principle rather than personality. By cautioning Dabiri about the precedent she may have set, he is sending a broader message to all public servants—that their actions, however well-intentioned, must be weighed against the standards of impartiality and justice expected of their office. And in a country where trust in institutions is already fragile, those standards are not just lofty ideals; they are essential to restoring public confidence.

If nothing else, this exchange between two respected figures—one from the entertainment world and the other from government—has highlighted just how sensitive Nigerians have become to any appearance of special treatment for the elite. In a society where the gap between the powerful and the powerless remains glaring, moments like this serve as a reminder that every public statement carries weight, and every action from a public servant is subject to the court of public opinion. Whether intended or not, the precedent set by Dabiri’s tweet will likely be remembered, and for many Nigerians, Mr Macaroni’s warning may prove to be a cautionary note worth heeding.