Veteran Nigerian comedian, Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, widely known as Alibaba, has raised serious concerns about the growing lack of professionalism among some comedians in the country.
Speaking during a recent episode of the Outside The Box podcast, the iconic entertainer criticised certain comedians for crossing ethical lines, especially when performing at corporate events.
Comedy without boundaries
Alibaba, often hailed as the “King of Comedy” in Nigeria, did not mince words as he described how some of his younger colleagues continue to embarrass themselves and the industry by telling indecent and insensitive jokes in professional settings.
He disclosed that there are at least three comedians he can no longer tolerate due to their lack of decorum. Without naming names, he accused them of insulting people’s sensibilities, ignoring feedback, and refusing to learn from past mistakes.
“There are about three Nigerian comedians whom I can’t stand. They have no sense of decorum. They insult people and cross boundaries. When you try to correct them, they ignore you. They go to corporate events and make dirty, inappropriate jokes. When you get a report and challenge them, they make excuses or say you’re just jealous,” he said during the interview.
A joke gone too far – Alibaba
Recalling a specific incident, Alibaba narrated how he once sent a fellow comedian to anchor a corporate event. However, he later received a disturbing report from the event organisers. According to Alibaba, the comedian had made an insensitive joke about the company chairman’s wife, who is plus-size.
He shared the exact words used in the joke:
“If a race happens now and everyone has to carry their wives and run, you can’t carry this woman and run.”
Alibaba expressed shock at the level of disrespect. “That was completely below the belt,” he said. “When I confronted the comedian, he simply brushed it off. He went as far as telling someone that I was only challenging him because he was ‘shining’ and becoming successful.”
Choosing decency over popularity
Alibaba made it clear that comedy should not come at the expense of others’ dignity. He stressed that comedians must learn to balance humour with respect, especially in formal environments.
“Corporate events are not nightclubs,” he said. “You’re dealing with executives, professionals, and family members. It’s important to know your audience and understand the setting. You can’t tell the same kind of jokes everywhere.”
He also explained that while he could easily name the comedians in question, he chose not to, as it could damage their careers. However, he did not hold back in calling them out to do better.
“I won’t mention names because I don’t want to ruin anyone’s career,” he said. “But they know themselves. It’s time to stop telling dirty, lazy jokes and start crafting intelligent, thoughtful content.”
A call for growth in Nigerian comedy
Alibaba’s remarks have sparked conversations across the entertainment industry. Many believe his criticism is long overdue and necessary for the growth of comedy in Nigeria. As a pioneer who helped shape stand-up comedy in the country, his words carry significant weight.
He concluded by urging young comedians to value feedback and strive to improve. “This isn’t about envy. It’s about lifting the industry. If we keep ignoring these bad habits, we’re only lowering the standards for future comedians,” he warned.
With the Nigerian comedy scene gaining international attention, Alibaba believes practitioners must uphold standards, stay disciplined, and ensure their humour uplifts rather than offends.
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