‘From Owning Billions To Bankruptcy, Indebtedness’, Skit Maker Mr Macaroni Opens Up On Financial Struggles, Betrayal

Popular Nigerian comedian, actor, and activist, Adebowale ‘Debo’ Adedayo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, has shared a deeply personal story about his financial struggles, which led to bankruptcy, overwhelming debt, and betrayal.

In an emotional post on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, Mr Macaroni opened up about how a failed investment and financial recklessness left him trapped in debt amounting to over half a billion Naira. He revealed that his troubles began around 2021/2022 when he became a victim of a scam, alongside losing all his savings in a failed business venture. Despite these setbacks, he kept his struggles largely private.

“If you know me well enough, you would know I do not like to share my problems,” he shared. “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.”

The comedian also described how, in his attempt to meet financial obligations, he resorted to borrowing money. However, he quickly found himself trapped in a cycle of debt, paying interest with his earnings. “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 reflected on his financial decisions, acknowledging his tendency to prioritize 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. He urged others who share similar tendencies to “share your breakfast and keep your money for lunch.”

Despite the challenges, he shared a glimmer of hope, revealing that the year 2024 marked a significant breakthrough in his acting career. Two of his films were screened at international festivals, receiving widespread praise. Yet, behind the scenes, he continued to grapple with his mounting debts.

The most painful part of his journey, according to Mr Macaroni, was the betrayal by someone he considered a close friend and sister. “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.

Despite the setbacks, Mr Macaroni remains determined. “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 shared that he has made difficult decisions and is now in a better place, both emotionally and financially. He encouraged others who are going through hard times 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.

He ended his post with an optimistic message: “May the love in our hearts be forever greater than the hate, betrayal, and wickedness in the world.”