Nollywood actor Bob Manuel-Udokwu has disclosed that he will be running for political office in Nigeria in 2015.

The actor disclosed in an interview with Nigeria’s Encomium magazine that he plans to contest for a seat at the Anambra state House of Assembly in the 2015 general elections under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) party.

Currently, Bob is the Special Advisor to Anambra state Governor, Chief Willie Obiano on Nollywood and Entertainment.

He told the magazine, "I have been in politics since I was given the role of the special advisor on Nollywood and Entertainment in Anambra state under the leadership of this present administration. If you mean I am contesting for a post in the Anambra state House of Assembly, Yes I am interested in vying for a political position in 2015 general elections in Anambra state House of Assembly to represent Idemili North Constituency 1. I want to go to the grassroots."

Bob Manuel joins the list of Nigerian entertainers – including actress Kate Offiong Henshaw, actor Desmond Elliot, and musician Abolore Akande (9ice) - who have declared their intentions to run for political office next year.

With criticisms trailing Nigerian entertainment personalities following their declarations, the ‘My Survival’ star said he sees nothing wrong with his colleagues venturing into politics stressing that most of their US counterparts have also done same.

"People ask that a lot. Why are people raising eyebrows? A lot of people from other sectors have also gone into politics. There shouldn't be an exception. In the US, a lot of entertainers are into politics. Why are journalist always asking this question?” he wondered.

Bob explained that, “we are often called political actors. I don't see anything wrong in entertainers going into politics. I am proud I put Nigeria on the world map as an actor. There is nothing bad in it if I do that in politics as well," he said

According to the actor, even though large amounts of money will be needed to prosecute his campaign, the end result is what matters to him most.

"Even when you shoot a movie, you need money for it as well. For me, it is not about the financial implication, it is the end result. We need to give hope to younger people. Let those who are sane, people who have been tested go in. I have been tested in the industry, I believe I am up to the task. Money has a role, no doubt, but we should not forget the end result,” Bob said.

 

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