BY LUCY EZELIORA
CELEBRATED Nigerian spontaneous laughter merchant and Asaba-based Trend100.9FM presenter, Uzuazor Abada Eniwoareke popularly called Holy Ake does not shy away from introducing himself with his plethora of names as Online – Doctor followed by his now well-known catchphrase: “Sins of Holy Ake”
Known with his annual comedic musical show tagged “Envision of Holy Ake” on July 7th of this year in Asaba, Delta State, renowned for his comedic spontaneity, he has carved a unique niche for himself in Nigeria’s comedy landscape. Speaking on his journey so far, his inspirations, and his philosophy on life and comedy, Holy Ake , who recently celebrated his event, Sins of Holy Ake with other stand-up comedians has embrace comedy with joy and reflection, reflects on the wisdom gained over the years, noting that some actions in his early years now seem like wasted efforts. Despite minor regrets, like “trusting the wrong people,” he remains focused on “moving forward with discernment and a positive mindset.” His message is clear: success cannot be pursued with a poverty mindset.
Despite earning a degree in Computer Science from Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, He started with Skirt making andthen found his true calling in comedy. He seamlessly blended his academic background with his natural talent to entertain and communicate with the public. He humorously asserts, “I am the only comedian who is currently administering what I studied.”
He personally inspired himself because he sees Comedy as being inborn in him. .No wonder people call him a self-made comedian because he never imitated any one and his jokes are pure original.
One of the most revealing moments was the revelation that before finding success in comedy, he (Holy Ake) has done so many job to earn a living. He went on to share the pivotal moment that led him to leave that job and pursue comedy full-time.
Holy Ake also talked about working as a presenter on Trend FM just to make ends meet. He says that his experiences during this period reinforced his belief in enjoying the process rather than prioritizing money. He emphasizes: “Those who pursue money don’t make it; money is like a butterfly, you can’t catch it by chasing it.”
He has been open about his struggles with depression thoughts. In the interview, he shed more light on the struggle and the emerging process. He attributes his resilience to having a clear vision and staying focused on his goals. He advises others facing similar challenges to project themselves to where they want to be and remain steadfast in their journey.
your style of comedy is observational
I started with jokes with my friends and after about a year, I moved into full time Comedy as the guy who is exceptionally funny and disturbs on the street. I modelled my style of comedy around the average Nigerian male that had gone to school, finished but hasn’t been able to get his feet on the ground. So, my style is observational and I do a lot of other styles, as I haven’t been able to show them yet, but in the coming months and years, people will get to see more of that. Sins of Holy Akeis the special vibe I bring to my acts and there are so many sins of Holy Ake. People walk up to me on the road and try to get me angry with one of my sins so that they would laugh. But, ultimately, my inspiration is God whose attributes reflect in my style of comedy. I also want to thank my wife for standing by me. And Nigeria is also a vibe, as I like to do things about what’s happening in our country.
Performing on stage makes me feel better
The highest level of performance I feel is when I perform on stage, and I get to make people happy. It makes me very very happy when I make people laugh. The camera doesn’t give me as much joy as performing on stage.
Recounting success and achievements
The fact that I’m a stand-up comedian is a major achievement and I grew up reading newspapers and having to be on one is a major achievement for me. And the fact that I have been able to carry my career to this point, and the fact that I go to places and people tell me they like what I do. So, these are the things I regard as achievements, but I’m not close to being done. When I started the craft, I set out goals for myself as I planned five and 10 years goals, but I’m still pushing. We are not there, but I have quite a number of achievements and I’m happy about that.
Comedy won’t stop paying at any point
If one is good at what he does, just as I am, then you don’t have to worry. I have no reason to stop doing comedy was because when I become 50, I would still do comedy. So, when I’m 50 years, I will still be doing comedy and for as long as I’m alive and I have God. By the way, I’m not doing comedy to pay the bills; because that’s the problem we have in Nigeria. Most people do it to pay bills and not because they love it. But when you are doing something you love and you are excellent at it then you won’t have a problem.
In five years
I see myself as one of the biggest comedians in the world. When it comes to awards, I don’t set my sights on anything local, as I have always wanted to be an international comedian. I have always wanted to win the Oscars and to own a TV show on an international television station By God’s grace I will my the special grace of God.
