In Midst Challenges, I’m Trying My Best to Live the Best Life

Comedian and actress, Chioma Omeruah, popularly known as Chigul is no stranger to the Nigerian entertainment industry. The voice-note of her song “Kilode” made the rounds when she sent it to few friends via BBM at that time. Chigul has since become a household name, thanks to her humorous Igbo accent, voice and personality. The French Education graduate of Delaware State University further stamped her prominence in the movie entertainment industry, starring in hit movies like The Wedding Party 2, Banana Island Ghost and Road to Yesterday. She also featured in the hit song *Karashika* by rapper Falz. Chigul shares her peak moments with AZUKA OGUJIUBA. She also talks about her childhood, the comedy industry, divorce and her father, late sports minister, Emeka Omeruah

I Know That Wherever My Father Is, He Would Be Proud of Me

What was your most devastating moment as a child? My childhood was actually quite cool but if I had to think of something that was devastating, it would be losing my maternal grandmother because she was very special to us.

How did you come about ‘Chigul’ Chigul is one of the many characters that I have created over time; she just seems to be the one that people took to quite easily and she became quite popular and so we are here now.

What do you think about comedians who center jokes on sensitive issues like rape, divorce, etc and apologising afterwards?

I think we should all be held responsible for our actions and words as well. I think it is wise to think before you speak so that you don’t have to come back and apologise.

Who inspires you in the comedy industry?

Alibaba, Basket Mouth, Bovi, Senator, Julius Agwu, Okey Bakassi and a host of others.

You have starred in a couple of movies, which would you deem most challenging and memorable?

I would say ‘Banana Island Ghost’ because it was my first feature film and it still holds a very special place in my heart.

You went through a very quiet separation, then divorce, despite being a public figure. What’s your opinion about couples who undergo a highly publicised and dramatic divorce?

I don’t have an opinion about that because I feel that everybody deals with their situation in different ways but the more private you are I think, the better it is.

Given your age and experience, what is the one thing you wish you did differently?

I have learnt so much in the past couple of years but I wish I knew a lot more before; that way, I would have probably been more prepared for the task ahead. But no regrets! We learn as we go.

You were once a teacher and now a media personality, comedian, actress and even took a shot at music. What job do you think you’d be terrible at?

I think I would make a horrible librarian because in a library you have to keep quiet and I don’t think I have mastered that craft just yet.

How do you think Nigeria can be shaped into becoming a tourist delight?

I feel like there is so much beauty and so much to see in this country. With proper infrastructure in place and the right people guiding that infrastructure, we can accomplish great things in the tourism space.

A video of your arrival in Dubai surfaced where you had a walking aid and also on your Instagram page, you posted videos of you going through pains. What were you really trying to say?

I have learnt that one of the best things I can do with my life is spread a message of positivity and a general sense of care and love. People are going through all kinds of challenges at different levels. Some of these people might not have anyone to turn to. I am sharing my experience and also showing that even in the midst of my challenges, I am trying my best to live my best life. So, even if I can help one person then my job is done.

Amidst the luxury experiences you were treated to in the just concluded Girls’ Trip to Dubai. What would you say was your peak moment during the trip?

Being at the top of the Burj; it literally makes you feel like you are on top of the world and that feeling never gets old.

What’s next for you? Is there any forthcoming project?

We have a lot going on and a lot more projects in the works. But just keep your eyes and ears open. Chigul can just pop up anywhere, at any time.

Your late dad Emeka Omeruah was Nigeria’s former Sports Minister. What are the things you miss most about him?

My father was a very strong, disciplined, principled and focused man. It saddens me that he is not here physically to share in my life but I know that wherever he is, he would be proud of me.

If you were getting married again and you have the opportunity to pick a location for a destination wedding, where would that be?

Dubai of course; over time, it has become my preferred destination for anything.

What’s that interesting thing about Chigul that we wouldn’t see anywhere online?

That is so hard to answer because my life is online pretty much but I think I can say that with me, what you see is what you get.

What’s an average Chigul’s day like?

Chigul likes to chill at home. As long as I have television, food and music, I’m okay at home.

How would you describe Chioma Omeruah and not Chigul)?

Chioma Omeruah is a girl who is trying to live her best life and at the same time trying to make a positive impact

I have learnt that one of the best things I can do with my life is spread a message of positivity and a general sense of care and love. People are going through all kinds of challenges at different levels. Some of these people might not have anyone to turn to. I am sharing my experience and also showing that even in the midst of my challenges, I am trying my best to live my best life. So, even if I can help one person then my job is done