Nollywood Star's Mecca Prayer for Colleague Goes Viral Amid Health Speculation
Videos capturing veteran Nollywood actor Saidi Balogun during his Ramadan pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, have ignited widespread conversation across social media platforms. The most notable footage shows the acclaimed performer offering a heartfelt prayer for his colleague, popular Yoruba comedian Olaniyi Afonja, widely known as Sanyeri.
Heartwarming Gesture at the Grand Mosque
Saidi Balogun, who recently celebrated his birthday, was filmed wearing traditional ihram garments at Mecca's Grand Mosque. In a moving display of camaraderie, he fervently prayed in the Yoruba language for Sanyeri's success, divine blessings, and long life. The comic actor himself shared the video on his official Instagram account, expressing profound gratitude with the caption: "Amen Thank you brother @saidibalogun Famliy help me say Amen."
Public Concern Over Sanyeri's Well-being
While many viewers found the prayer touching, it has simultaneously sparked significant concern among Nigerian fans regarding Sanyeri's health. This apprehension stems from a previous incident in October 2024, when a video surfaced showing the comedian with slightly trembling hands while dining at a restaurant in the United States. Observers noted the shaking became more apparent as he reached for ketchup and attempted to open the container.
Despite these concerns, Sanyeri has remained active on social media as recently as February 2026, regularly engaging with his audience and sharing content.
Mixed Reactions from Social Media Users
The viral prayer video has elicited diverse responses from online commentators:
- awayemicheal expressed worry: "I hope nothing is wrong with Sanyeri? Amen to all his prayer."
- OniTunde1386598 noted: "Be like sanyeri no dey ok Been a while o Since I see him on set."
- alabiluqmon offered religious critique: "He did well remembering Sanyeri in his prayers at Harom. But reciting Surotul Fatiha which wasn't properly recited at d end of his prayer was a mistake."
- adebowaleo15534 defended the act: "He’s just praying for him nothing do sanyeri Abi you people no hear Yoruba ni?"
- ki_iks questioned the publicity: "Some muslims need to learn modesty and humility in prayers etc. You can pray for people without needing to film it."
Broader Context of Balogun's Public Life
This incident follows previous reports where Saidi Balogun shared a personal account of President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu intervening during a critical moment in his life. The actor recalled a severe accident years ago that left him in critical condition, noting the swift assistance provided by the presidential couple during his recovery.
The convergence of Ramadan spirituality, Nollywood solidarity, and public concern has transformed this personal prayer into a significant cultural moment, highlighting both the bonds within Nigeria's entertainment industry and the intense scrutiny faced by public figures regarding their health and personal lives.
