Popular Nigerian comedian Kevin Chinedu, widely known as Kevinblak, has revealed that he was once offered a large sum in dollars to stop criticising politicians through his comedy skits.
The skit maker made this known during an interview on ARISE TV’s Arise 360 programme on Monday.
He spoke about the hidden pressures faced by content creators who use humour to question governance and public officials.
Chinedu, who is famous for playing the fictional character “Governor Amuneke,” said the offer came from individuals linked to a political party. According to him, the aim was to influence the direction of his content.
“They Offered Me Dollars to Stop Criticising Politicians” – ‘Governor Amuneke’ Reveals.
He explained that the proposal was made at a very difficult time in his life. He said his wife had just undergone a Caesarean section, and he was struggling financially.
“They said they were going to change my life, that I’m earning crumbs, you know, give me dollars. They mentioned that my colleagues are in the game and all of that,” he said.
The comedian, however, refused to disclose the identity of the political party. He described it only as “Amuneke’s party,” linking it to his satirical character. He also warned against attempts to speculate publicly.
“Don’t mention names, trust me, don’t mention names,” he said.
Chinedu further revealed that the offer included an invitation to Abuja, with promises of a life-changing financial reward. He said the pressure was intense, especially considering his financial situation at the time.
“I had a lot of bills on my head and I just heard come, come to Abuja, let’s change your life. Dollars upon dollars,” he said.
Despite the temptation, he said he rejected the offer. He noted that his decision was based on his personal values and long-standing principles.
“I looked at it, I said, no, I am who I am. I’ve been here for a long time, and I’ve never been in any illegal thing, and I’ve never been somewhere, you know, I’m doing something because I’m being influenced, because of money.”
“If I want to do it, it should be something I’m doing because I want to do it. So, you know, it is what it is,” he said.
Speaking further, the comedian said his close friends also share similar values. He added that some of them had received similar approaches and turned them down.
“I don’t have friends that are easily overwhelmed with money. I have people who have principles because they have, you know, approached them, they themselves. So, we always have that conversation,” he said.