Popular Nigerian comedian, actor, and activist, Adebowale ‘Debo’ Adedayo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, has shared a deeply personal story about his past financial struggles, leading to bankruptcy, indebtedness and suffering betrayal.

In a heartfelt post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, the entertainer revealed how he became a victim of financial scam – a failed investment, and financial recklessness, which left him in crippling debt, amounting to over half a billion Naira.

Mr Macaroni, known for his comic skits and social activism, disclosed that the financial troubles began around 2021/2022 when he fell victim to a scam and simultaneously lost all his savings in a failed investment. Despite the setback, he kept his struggles private.

“If you know me well enough, you would know I do not like to share my problems. I could be going through the worst and at the same time helping others solve their own problems, but I just would never share mine,” he wrote.

The comedian explained that, in an attempt to meet his financial commitments and responsibilities, he resorted to borrowing money. However, his financial decisions only deepened his problems as he found himself paying off interest with the money he earned.

“I make money in millions, so I never thought borrowing money to pay back with interests could ever be a problem. But I got too comfortable, and it took me a long time to realize that I was using the money I was earning to pay back interests,” he admitted.

Mr Macaroni further acknowledged his financial recklessness, describing how he had always prioritised helping others even at his own expense. “I would give out my money for lunch to someone who didn’t have breakfast, forgetting that I would go hungry when it’s time for lunch,” he confessed, urging those with similar tendencies to “share your breakfast and keep your money for lunch.”

Despite his challenges, he said the year 2024 marked a breakthrough in his acting career, with two of his films being screened at international festivals and his performances receiving widespread commendations. However, behind the scenes, he was weighed down by the reality of his mounting debts.

The most painful blow, according to Mr Macaroni, came from someone he considered a close friend and sister, who betrayed his trust. “I hardly trust people, and nothing really surprises me about the actions of humans, but this one, I could never have prepared for,” he lamented.

Nevertheless, the actor remained resolute. “One thing about me is that I’m a warrior! I have never backed down from a fight. When I fall, I bounce back even stronger by God’s grace, and I keep my head up,” he declared.

With the support of family and friends, Mr Macaroni revealed that he has made tough decisions and is now in a better place emotionally and financially. He encouraged others going through difficulties not to give up.

“This letter of love is for my people going through whatever. Please DO NOT GIVE UP! People will betray you, but you must not let that derail you. You are alive for a reason. And every day of your life, you must fight to be a better person than you were yesterday,” he advised.

The comedian concluded his post with a message of hope: “May the love in our hearts be forever greater than the hate, betrayal, and wickedness in the world.”