Legendary comedian Alibaba has delivered a scathing critique of the country’s political system. Speaking on the popular “With Chude” podcast on September 28, 2024, the comedy icon laid bare his reasons for steering clear of politics, despite his vast network and decades of experience in the public eye.
Alibaba, whose real name is Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, has been a household name in Nigeria for over three decades. Known for his sharp wit and social commentary, his decision to address the state of Nigerian politics has captivated audiences nationwide.
“First of all, our constitution is crap, I can say it anywhere,” Alibaba declared, his usual jovial tone replaced by one of deep concern. If you bring Obama to run Nigeria with that constitution, he will fail.
At the heart of Alibaba’s critique is what he sees as a fundamentally flawed constitution. His comments have reignited debates about constitutional reform, a topic that has long been contentious in Nigerian political discourse.
Constitutional lawyer Femi Falana, SQ, weighed in on Alibaba’s statements: “While the language may be colorful, the comedian touches on a critical issue. Our constitution, as it stands, presents significant challenges to effective governance and accountability.”
Moving beyond the constitution, Alibaba painted a grim picture of systemic corruption that he believes permeates every level of government.
Perhaps most chilling were Alibaba’s accounts of what happens to those who try to challenge the system. He recounted the story of a House of Assembly member who spoke out against budget padding, only to be swiftly removed from his position.
That was the statement he made in public, and that is the kind of situation that we have,” Alibaba said, his voice tinged with frustration. Those kinds of people don’t last because the system would eat them up.
This sentiment was echoed by human rights activist Chidi Odinkalu: “What Alibaba describes is a form of institutional bullying. It’s a way of silencing dissent and maintaining a corrupt status quo.
Alibaba’s critique extended to the civil service, which he sees as deeply entangled in the web of corruption.
Some of the civil servants survive on the corruption of the ministry,” he stated bluntly. This observation has led to calls for a comprehensive review of civil service practices and compensation.
Dr. Yemi Kale, former Statistician-General of the Federation, offered his insights: “The issue Alibaba raises about the civil service is complex. While corruption is a serious problem, we must also consider the systemic underfunding and poor working conditions that can drive some to unethical practices.”
The comedian’s words have struck a chord with many Nigerians, who see in his comments a reflection of their own frustrations with the political system.
On the streets of Lagos, opinions were divided but passionate. Market vendor Amina Yusuf expressed her support: “Alibaba is saying what we all think but are afraid to say. It’s time for real change.
However, not everyone agreed with the comedian’s stark assessment. University student Oluwaseun Adebayo countered, “I think Alibaba is being too pessimistic. Yes, we have problems, but there are good people in government too. We can’t just give up.”
Alibaba’s foray into serious political commentary has reignited discussions about the role of entertainers in shaping public opinion on governance issues.
Media scholar Dr. Olufunmilayo Arewa commented on this phenomenon: “Entertainers like Alibaba often have a unique ability to cut through political noise and speak directly to the public. Their influence can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and sparking debate.”
While Alibaba’s interview was heavy on criticism, it also sparked conversations about potential solutions. Social media has been abuzz with hashtags like #FixNigerianPolitics and #ConstitutionalReformNow.
Political reform advocate Obiageli Ezekwesili tweeted: “Alibaba’s words should be a wake-up call. We need comprehensive electoral and constitutional reforms to address these systemic issues.”
However, the comedian himself remains skeptical about the prospects for change in the near term. I don’t think I will last,” he said, referring to the idea of entering politics or taking a government appointment. “The system would eat me up.”
As Nigeria grapples with the issues raised by one of its most beloved entertainers, the question remains: Will Alibaba’s words serve as a catalyst for change, or are they merely an articulation of widespread despair?
What is clear is that the comedian has tapped into a vein of frustration and disillusionment that runs deep in Nigerian society. His candid assessment of the political landscape has forced a national conversation about corruption, constitutional reform, and the very nature of governance in Africa’s most populous nation.
As the sun sets on another day in Nigeria, Alibaba’s words continue to reverberate. Whether they will lead to concrete action or fade into the background of ongoing political discourse remains to be seen. What is certain is that for now, one of Nigeria’s most famous funny men has given the nation plenty to think about – and very little to laugh about.
