Comedian Ayodeji Richard Makun, popularly known as AY, addressed Nigerians who urged him to decline the award bestowed upon him by former President Buhari.
AY, who was scheduled to receive the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) on Sunday, May 28, expressed his enthusiasm about the news and shared it with his fans and followers on Twitter.
In his own words, he said, “I woke up to a message from my manager, informing me about being listed amongst notable Nigerians to receive a national honour. Just when I was taking it to be another award to join the ones on my shelf, I was told that National Honours are the highest honours or awards that a citizen can receive from his or her country for their contribution to national development…”
Accept that award with utmost pride.
Nevertheless, there were Nigerians who, dissatisfied with the results of the 2023 general election, urged AY to decline the honor.
In reply, AY asserted that his loyalty lies with a country he has actively contributed to, and he gladly welcomes recognition from that same country. He stressed that a national honor represents the highest form of acknowledgment for one’s efforts in the nation’s development.
Netizens indeed had a lot to say to encourage him further and to also question his loyalty. See some of their reactions:
@IamWisdomUche: “You have contributed immensely to nation building. No one should make you feel like you’re undeserving of it. It’s not the President’s Award. If it was, then I’d drag you too for accepting it. Accept that award with utmost pride.”
@mac_awesom: “Why will they ask you to reject it when you are not the late Chinua Achebe, Macaroni and Declan Rice crooner. Tell them you need the award more than anything. At least you can use that one to be ahead of your colleagues in the industry who haven’t been recognized and awarded.”
@lindy_brendan: “I wouldn’t ask u to reject it. It is well deserved. But if u don’t like someone,u don’t take anything from him irrespective of who or what organization he represents. Do u think Mandela or Martin Luther wil take that from the oppressors? Sorry I forget say u still dey hungry. Lol”
@ebikajewel: “I don’t understand o… someone cannot receive an award in their own country again…”
@rue_you_mtf: “@ChimamandaReal is still the most patriotic of all other Nigerians… @AYCOMEDIAN if you so badly need an award ,why don’t you get one from ooni ifé or oba of Lagos…..be guided man!!…..receiving an award from those who denied killing youths during the end sars”
@jakesharry69: “Congratulations Sir. More win. Please disregard these hypocrites criticizing you for accepting the honor you deserved for your contribution towards national growth. The honor is from the office of the President of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria and no Buhari”
@tyolajide: “@AYCOMEDIAN I wholeheartedly applaud your perspective and unwavering commitment to our great nation. Your understanding that a national honour transcends political affiliations and individual leaders is commendable.
It is indeed a testament to your dedication and contributions to nation-building. Your humility in acknowledging that the honor is a recognition of your efforts and a reflection of the significance of our country resonates deeply.
Your steadfast allegiance to Nigeria and your pride in being rewarded by our nation is truly inspiring.
May your continued contributions serve as an inspiration to others and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our beloved country. God bless Nigeria
@GeorgeNnad: “I see no point rejecting the award! It’s pointless! Y’all should stop this!“
@olutadeni23: “The award is from Nigeria and not from any individual. Moreso, you were not considered by him but by those who saw you qualified for it. Presidents go, presidents come, Nigeria will still remain. Naija recognizes your contributions my brother. A big CONGRATULATIONS!”
READ ALSO: Peter Okoye stuns many, gifts physically challenged comedian N1m at AY live show, video trends
There’s more to AY and Basketmouth’s beef
In another story, veteran comedian, Julius Agwu shared his assessment of the ongoing quarrel between industry top names, Basketmouth and AY.
Both veterans have been in the news for an unresolved 30k beef which has dated for years back, each granting interview stating their grievances.
In an interview with Chude Jideonwo, AY alleged that Basketmouth, in 2006 refused to pay him an agreed N30,000 for an event.
