Alibaba, Icon of Comedy, Now a Golden Boy
What do you expect when the big masquerade chooses to dance in a market place? No doubt, many will beat a path to the venue with interest. This was the scenario that played out last Thursday when the King of Comedy, Atunyota Alleluya Akporomerere, aka Alibaba, marked his 50th birthday in style in Lagos. Many of his protégées came to pay homage to their king that encouraged, supported and mentored them.
Without doubt, the history of Nigeria’s comedy industry will not be complete without a generous mention of his name. Indeed, he will be recognized as the man who turned the industry into a money- spinning venture.
For the graduate of Religious Studies and Philosophy from the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, the journey to fame and stardom started over two decades ago. He started out as a Master of ceremonies, even when many would not touch the trade with a long pole. He was sneered at as many see him as a lazy and neverdo- well. But he did not despair, he rose above all hurdles with guts, sacrifice and sheer creative dynamism. In no time, AliBaba became a pathfinder. He has propped the career of several other budding talents.
It is a fact that in today’s Nigeria, many comedians are among the richest in the entertainment industry, thanks to Ali Baba who gave comedy a lifeline.
For many stars in the entertainment industry, the occasion afforded them the rare opportunity to pay glowing tributes to Alibaba for his invaluable contribution to the industry.
Ali Baba was born in Warri, Delta State, on June 24, 1965 to the Royal Family of Agbarha Otor. His father is a retired soldier who served in Lagos.
After acquiring a degree in 1990, he relocated to Lagos, having discovered his comic talent in his third year in the University. He had planned to return to Ekpoma to read Law but that was not to be, since he had the premonition that he would make it big in comedy even when the industry was not profitable. Today, the acclaimed king of Nigerian comedy is happy for discovering himself earlier enough.
The comedian is not only into comedy but also into acting, photography, painting, writing and a motivational speaker.