Nigerian actress Funke Akindele arrested for hosting party amidst COVID-19 lockdown
Nigerian actress Funke Akindele popular for her role in ‘Jenifa’s Diary’ has been arrested after it was brought to the authorities’ attention that the actress violated movement restrictions stipulated by the Nigerian government. This comes after the Nollywood comedy star held a birthday party for her husband amidst the coronavirus lockdown.
The star faced extensive backlash after her husband posted videos of the part on his Instagram live feed on Saturday as, naturally, people questioned why she and other celebrities in attendance were encouraging public gatherings despite the warnings to stay at home.
The House Party Funke Akindele and her Husband JJCskillz did with the likes of Naira Marley, Eniola Badmus.. why this during this total lockdown? 😩💔🤦🏽♀️ pic.twitter.com/fNVMEIgZHd
— M i a 🧣 (@sisimiaa) April 5, 2020
More enraging was the fact that the actress had been part of the Stay at home’ campaign fronted by Dettol Nigeria to create awareness on proper hygiene and encourage social distancing.
Practice what you preach
Akindele took to her Instagram page to apologise after the video went viral on social media, explaining that those in attendance were a film crew that had been quarantined at her studio. The claims were quickly refuted by the online community who charged her to practice what she preaches.
Akindele and her husband, Abdul Rasheed Bello, were arrested and charged on Monday, April 6, with breaking the Lagos Infectious Disease 2020 regulation under the Public Health Law.
The witness
The two consequently pleaded guilty were fined $260 and ordered to do a 14-day community service. Their community service order stipulates that the two should both visit 10 public places to create awareness on covid-19 preventive measures. Singer Naira Marley, who was also in attendance, has also been arrested.
Nigeria has so far recorded 232 cases of coronavirus with five deaths and 33 people discharged after recovering.
