Veteran Nigerian comedian, Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, better known as Alibaba, has opened up about a decade-long rift with his father over his career choice. In a candid interview on the Christmas edition of The Honest Bunch Podcast, Alibaba shared how his decision to pursue comedy over law led to a ten-year silence between him and his father.
Alibaba’s father, a dedicated scholar who earned his PhD at 86, had envisioned a legal career for his son. However, Alibaba had other plans. “I told him, I said, ‘Daddy, I came from school to tell you something.’ He said, ‘Okay, have you been rusticated?’ I said, ‘No. I’ve decided that I don’t want to read law. I want to do comedy,’” Alibaba recounted.
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His father’s reaction was one of disbelief and disappointment. He even suggested that Alibaba had “found another father,” implying that he could no longer be part of the family if he chose not to pursue law. This reaction forced Alibaba to leave home, marking the beginning of a decade-long estrangement.
Despite the familial tension, Alibaba remained committed to his passion for comedy. He saw his career choice as a personal challenge to prove his father wrong. “So people ask, ‘Where did you get the inspiration to become a great comedian?’ I was committed. I was like I want to prove him [my Dad] wrong,” Alibaba said.
Alibaba’s story serves as a testament to his determination and commitment to his craft, proving that success can be achieved even when faced with significant personal obstacles.
