LAGOS: Comedian Kevin Chinedu, popularly known as Kevinblak and famed for his satirical “Governor Amuneke” character, has alleged that officials of a political party attempted to influence him with financial inducements to soften his criticism of politicians in his comedy skits.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE TV’s Arise 360, Chinedu said the offer was made at a difficult personal period in his life, shortly after his wife underwent a Caesarean section, leaving him under significant emotional and financial pressure.
According to him, the party officials promised him “life-changing” sums in dollars and suggested he was underpaid compared to some of his colleagues in the entertainment industry who had allegedly accepted similar arrangements.
“They said they were going to change my life, that I’m earning crumbs, and offered dollars upon dollars,” he said, adding that he was invited to Abuja for further discussions.
However, the comedian said he rejected the offer, insisting that his work must remain guided by personal conviction rather than financial influence.
I looked at it and said no, I am who I am. I’ve never been involved in anything illegal or influenced by money. If I want to do something, it must be because I choose to do it,” he explained.
Chinedu, however, declined to name the political party involved, referring to it only indirectly as “Amuneke’s party,” and warned against attempts to publicly identify it.
He also revealed that members of his close circle had faced similar approaches but also turned them down, stressing that they shared a strong sense of principle.
“I don’t have friends who are easily overwhelmed by money. They have also been approached and refused,” he said.
The comedian, known for using humour to critique governance and political behaviour in Nigeria, said he remains committed to maintaining his independence despite pressure from political actors.
His revelation has sparked renewed conversation around attempts to influence digital creators and entertainers who use satire as a tool for political commentary in the country.
