Ibadan-based comedian, Olowomoyela Oluwatobi Lawrence, popularly known as Peteru, has revealed why he has not moved to Lagos which is regarded as the headquarters of comedy in Nigeria.
According to him, in an interview with Nigerian Tribune, ”There are many kings in Lagos, but just one in Ibadan and that is me! Stay on your lane and when it’s time to bring kings together, your brand will be strong enough to make you sit with kings.”
In the last five years, Peteru’s popularity has soared, especially in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
What he is working on currently
“I have been working on myself and the new project that I and team are bringing back which is ‘Comedy Hub with Peteru.”
Why comedians are now taken seriously
“Over the years we were laughed at and mocked, the job was not really paying off but now that a lot of comedians are doing very well, the younger ones too don’t want to be left out.”
Is comedy money-spinning in Ibadan
“No, I can’t say that for now due to some reasons.”
Limitations of the comedy industry in Ibadan
“First and major is the lack of content and then we can look into exposure. We also have to address the acceptance of our acts by the public. A lot more needs to be done and I hope it will as time goes on.”
Solutions
“Up and coming comedians should try be a brand on their own and create content that will last at least a decade, sometimes they go out of their comfort zone; go elsewhere to perform and see how creative they can be, then Ibadan based clients and brands can begin to accept us all and not go to lagos every time there’s a major corporate event.”
His brand of comedy
“Outstanding, just because Peteru can be anything to any audience on any stage to make them laugh. I am not limited.”
Mentorship for comedians
“It’s a must, a comedian who has no mentor can’t be monitored and when you’re not monitored, you may not be noticed. When you’re not noticed, how will your dreams come true. Ali Baba, Gbenga Adeyinka, Lafup are people who mentored me over the years and I am better for it.
How upcoming comedians can find a niche for themselves…
“That’s funny because if the elders can create a lasting brand that’s still keeping them, how do you stay in the game too in decades to come? Simply create an outstanding brand that will stand the test of time, keep reading, keep researching and get a mentor.”
What next for him
“Thank you. We are presently working on a project to empower the less privileged and the disabled (not just to feed them but discover the talents in them). It is called ‘Project Discovery’.
“Also, we are bringing back the soccer for unity tournament to connect with all entertainment stakeholders in the city and beyond,” he said
