Nigerian skit maker and actor, Adebowale Adedayo, popularly known as Mr Macaroni, has opened up about a personal ordeal that left him bankrupt and buried in a staggering debt of over half a billion naira.
In a post shared on his Facebook page on Thursday, Mr Macaroni revealed that he was a victim of a scam and a failed investment between 2021 and 2022 which wiped out all his savings.
According to him, the incident marked one of the most challenging periods of his life, yet he kept it away from public knowledge.
“You all know I never bring my personal issues to social media. I only wish to share this with my community because I want people to learn from my experience. Also, a part of me won’t rest until I publicly thank God for his grace; therefore I feel obliged to do this,” he wrote.
Reflecting on the toll it took on him, the comedian said the financial loss left him shaken, but he chose to suffer in silence.
“Sometime around 2021/2022 I was victim of a scam and simultaneously a failed investment that cost me all I had saved at the time. It shook me deeply but I told NO ONE about it. If you know me well enough, you would know I do not like to share my problems.”
He added that his theatrical training instilled in him the spirit of resilience, and he kept up public appearances, continuing to entertain despite his inner battles.
“Also, my training in Theatre is that the show must go on. As a Thespian, I have a duty to continue to entertain, inform, educate and use my art to make society a better place. So it didn’t matter whatever it was I was going through. The show must go on!”
The actor narrated how his financial woes escalated after he began borrowing money to meet obligations, assuming he could easily repay with interest from his earnings.
“After I lost all the money I had then, Trouble started when I had to borrow money from different sources to settle all pending commitments and also fulfill certain responsibilities I have always believed were mine to fulfill… 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. Also, my financial recklessness did not help.”
Mr Macaroni admitted that his generous nature and lack of financial discipline worsened the situation.
“I’m not perfect. I try to be as honest as possible. I am a financially reckless person. I know it. My family and friends have always said it. And this is way before fame… If you are like me, please learn to share your breakfast and keep your money for lunch.”
Despite his belief that he was fulfilling a divine mandate to help others, he conceded that even good intentions must be balanced with responsibility.
“I have somehow attributed that to a mandate from God… But I know that even God does not want us to be reckless.”
ALSO READ: Iyanya unveiled as new judge on Nigerian Idol Season 10
He disclosed that even as his career soared in 2024 with acclaimed film roles and international screenings, he battled the pressure of massive debt behind the scenes.
“2024 was a turning point for my Acting career. Two of the films I featured in were screened at international festivals.. my performances in some other films released last year also earned me numerous commendations. However, It was also the most troubling year for me. I was burdened every single day and night knowing that I was over half a billion in debt.”
The situation worsened when he was betrayed by someone he trusted deeply, compounding his emotional distress.
“The last straw was when I was betrayed by someone whom I have always loved as a friend and sister… Such was the level of trust and love.”
However, Mr Macaroni said he eventually summoned the strength to rebuild, with support from family and friends.
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
and then