Legendary Nollywood actor Pete Edochie has stated that his influence extends far beyond the film industry, emphasizing that his advanced age and lifelong pedigree position him as a father figure to Nigeria's political leadership.

Speaking during a recent interview with TV3, the veteran actor noted that when he addresses public issues, government authorities listen because he is senior in age to the nation's political elite.

Edochie pointed out that he will turn 80 in the next six months, making him older than current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as well as all 36 state governors.

Recalling an instance where he successfully leveraged his standing to assist a struggling member of the creative community, Edochie explained:

"I was interviewed in my house in Enugu. During that period, one of my colleagues was ill, so I used that opportunity to call on the government to come to his aid."

The intervention yielded swift results, with the state providing financial assistance directly to the ailing actor within days.

"The following week, the government sent half a million naira to him. In the next six months, I will be turning 80. I am older than all the governors and the president, so when I talk to them, it is like a father talking to a son," he added.

ID