FROM IBADAN TO DIGITAL - Creators Keeping the Yoruba Comedy Tradition Alive

Long before social media transformed entertainment, Ibadan stood as one of the most influential cultural capitals of Yoruba-speaking Nigeria during the 1960s and early 1970s. The city was a thriving hub for theatre and live performance, producing some of the most iconic figures in Yoruba comedy and popular culture.

Legends such as Baba Sala and Ajimajasan, alongside the celebrated Jesters International trio of Papilolo, Jakobu and Aderupoko, captivated audiences with a unique blend of humour, satire, music and social commentary. Their performances not only entertained but also helped define a distinctly Oyo-Yoruba style of storytelling rooted in wit, everyday experiences and cultural identity.

Today, a new generation of creatives is reviving and reimagining that rich tradition for the digital age. Through skits, short-form videos and social media content, these creators are bringing Ibadan and Oyo-Yoruba cultural identity to audiences across Nigeria and the diaspora.

While their backgrounds and career paths may differ, they share a common creative language rooted in Yoruba expressions, local humour, cultural references, familiar accents and relatable social experiences. In doing so, they are preserving the spirit of a storytelling tradition that once flourished on theatre stages and now thrives on smartphone screens.

SCREENNOLLY features ten creators whose content continues to preserve, project and popularise the distinctive voice of the Oyo-Yoruba experience in the global digital age.

Yemi Elesho Adeoye Adeyemi Elesho 

Raised in Oyo State and inspired by his father, veteran actor Adewale Elesho, Adeoye Adeyemi Elesho has become one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba digital comedy.

Known for his expressive performances and relatable Yoruba humour, he has successfully transitioned from skit-making into Nollywood acting while maintaining a strong online presence.

Pastor Remote Tolulope Olayiwola

Born and raised in Ibadan, Tolulope Olayiwola, popularly known as Pastor Remote, built his reputation through energetic comedy rooted in Yoruba street culture and everyday social experiences.

His skits, centred on the life of a fake pastor who solicits money through dubious prophecies and staged visions, are delivered in the Oyo-Yoruba dialect with wit and character-driven humour, making him one of the most authentic voices in contemporary Ibadan comedy.

Pretty Arike Arike Obafolahan

Arike Obafolahan, popularly known as Pretty Arike, has built a loyal following through skits that celebrate Ibadan slang, social life and everyday Yoruba interactions.
Her content varies in theme but consistently reflects the voice, humour and mannerisms of young Ibadan residents, making her a relatable figure among audiences at home and in the diaspora.

Tanwa Tarii

Tanwa Tarii has gained popularity through comedy content heavily influenced by the Yoruba language, expressions and family-centred storytelling.

Her skits draw humour from everyday situations and are delivered with a distinctive Oyo-Yoruba flavour that resonates strongly with her growing audience.

Lizzy Jay Adeyela Adebola

Adeyela Adebola, better known as Lizzy Jay, rose to prominence as "Omo Ibadan", a character that captured the confidence, wit and humour associated with Ibadan women.

She has since expanded beyond skit-making into acting, with film credits including Progressive Tailors Club, Casa de Novia and Adire, establishing herself as a respected Nollywood actress while retaining her comedic roots.

Kiekie Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori

Born and raised in Ibadan, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, popularly known as Kiekie, combines comedy, fashion and lifestyle content with an unmistakable Yoruba cultural influence.

Her successful transition into mainstream entertainment and acting has made her one of Nigeria's most versatile digital creators. Popular skits such as Tailor Oran and The Housemaids, alongside film appearances in Gingerrr, Roxy and Muri & Ko, have cemented her status as a leading figure in Nigeria's new generation of entertainers.

Kofo Ibadan Morenikeji Ejide-Olakunle

Morenikeji Ejide-Olakunle, popularly known as Kofo Ibadan, proudly wears her city identity as part of her brand and creative persona.

Her skit character, Iya Saheed, is inspired by Ibadan culture, language, and everyday experiences, helping to strengthen the city's presence in Nigeria's digital comedy landscape.

Taaooma Maryam Apaokagi

Maryam Apaokagi, popularly known as Taaooma, rose to prominence through her brilliant use of video editing to portray multiple family characters within a single skit. Her ability to seamlessly switch between mother, father, child and other household roles became a defining feature of her comedy.

Born in Kwara State, Taaooma's content is rooted in Yoruba family life, humour and cultural values. Beyond her famous African mother character, she is also known for memorable personalities such as Quadri, whose antics have become fan favourites.

Her innovative storytelling has helped bridge digital comedy and screen acting, earning her recognition as one of Nigeria's most influential content creators.

Ijoba Lande Ganiyu Kehinde Morufu

Ganiyu Kehinde Morufu, popularly known as Ijoba Lande, is celebrated for his energetic Yoruba-language comedy and highly expressive performances.

His content draws heavily from grassroots experiences and traditional Yoruba humour, while his acting career continues to grow within Nollywood.

Woli Agba Ayobami Ajewole

Ayobami Ajewole, popularly known as Woli Agba, pioneered a unique blend of gospel-themed comedy and Yoruba cultural storytelling.

Through his Instagram Parish Ministry (IPM), where he portrays a comedic pastor delivering moral and spiritual lessons through satire, Woli Agba combines faith-based messages with humour. Often delivered in Yoruba, his content has influenced a generation of digital comedians and content creators.