Popular Yoruba actor Olasunkanmi Akanni Jerome, widely known by his stage name Olohuniyo, has shared his views on religion and the misconceptions surrounding his frequent portrayal of herbalist roles in movies.
In an interview posted on Oyinmomo TV’s official YouTube channel, the actor clarified that although he is a Christian, he holds deep respect for both Islam and traditional religion. He emphasized that religious tolerance is essential and that condemning other people’s faiths only breeds conflict.
“I usually tell some people that everybody should respect other people’s religions,” he said. “I’m not an idol worshipper. I’m a Christian, but I respect Islam and traditional religion. If I condemn other people’s religion because I’m not part of them, a lot of people will come out to challenge me.”
Olohuniyo also addressed assumptions made about him due to the roles he plays on screen. “The fact that I always act as an herbalist in movies does not mean that I’m an herbalist in real life. It is just the movie role given to me on set,” he explained.
His words highlight the importance of separating an actor’s on-screen persona from their real-life beliefs and values.
“I’m not an herbalist in real life, and I don’t know anything about charms. The reason why most people think I’m a traditionalist is due to the type of roles I play in movies. However, these are only movie roles and don’t reflect who I am in real life. Everybody has their religion. I’m a bonafide member of the Apostolic Church. Those who play religious roles like pastors and imams in movies may be traditionalists in real life; however, those who play the role of herbalists in movies could be Christians or Muslims in real life. So it is due to the type of roles we are given.”
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