SPOTLIGHT: King IY, the Nigerian MC on mission to make a name in UK

Osakue Iyobosa, the UK-based Nigerian content creator, event host and hypeman fondly called King IY, wields sarcasm like a sword, skewering societal issues with a blend of humour and truth. His journey into showbiz inadvertently started in the halls of his secondary school where his natural charisma and love for expression landed him a spot on the radio team. This was the spark that ignited a passion for captivating audiences. In this interview with TheCable Lifestyle’s VICTOR EJECHI, King IY talks about his struggles before the spotlight and his plans to take the UK entertainment space by storm.

TheCable Lifestyle: Can you describe your journey into the entertainment as interconnected aspects of your career?

King IY: My journey into the world of hosting and entertainment began during my secondary school days, I was often labelled as one of the class’ notorious noise-makers. My natural inclination towards being vocal and expressive led me to be selected to work with the school’s radio team—an experience that sparked my initial fascination with broadcasting.

Though I enjoyed my time with the radio team and had time doing gigs in university, it wasn’t until after completing my university education that I seriously considered pursuing a career with the microphone.

Faced with job opportunities that did not offer much financial reward and satisfaction, I ventured into hosting gigs in Lagos upon the advice of others. Surprisingly, I deeply enjoyed the experience, and I never looked back.

While the prospect of earning money for something I previously did for free was enticing, the sheer joy and fulfilment I experienced while entertaining audiences truly captured my heart. Realizing that I could turn my passion into a lucrative career was a moment of revelation—I knew then that I had stumbled upon a goldmine.

TheCable Lifestyle: Will you regard yourself as a skit maker or stand-up comedian, or which best describes you?

King IY: I have realized that these labels — skit maker or stand-up comedian — can sometimes feel limiting. For me, comedy is about more than just fitting into predefined categories. It is about connecting with people, sharing laughter, and creating memorable experiences. I see myself as someone who occupies the space between these labels, where spontaneity and wit thrive.

Rather than strictly defining myself as a stand-up comedian, I prefer to identify as an event host with a knack for humour. This allows me the freedom to infuse laughter into various aspects of my work, whether it’s hosting an event, engaging with the audience, delivering spontaneous jokes that keep the energy high, or creating content.

Being in the middle means I can draw from the best of both worlds: the structured humour of stand-up comedy, content creation and the dynamic, interactive nature of event hosting.

It is about embracing versatility and finding creative ways to entertain and connect with people, regardless of the label attached. Ultimately, what matters most to me is the joy and laughter I can bring to others, whether it is through scripted jokes or spontaneous wit.

TheCable Lifestyle: Your content is widely recognized for its use of sarcasm to address societal issues. Can you tell us what motivates you to use this approach in your content creation?

King IY: Sarcasm serves as a potent tool in my arsenal, helping me shed light on pressing societal issues with a blend of wit and irony. By weaving sarcasm into my content, I create a space where challenging topics can be discussed in a manner that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.

This approach allows me to delve into areas that some may shy away from discussing, providing a layer of protection for both myself and the audience. With the use of wordplay and satire, I navigate sensitive subjects with finesse, inviting audiences to engage in critical reflection.

In this way, sarcasm becomes a tool for sparking dialogue and fostering a deeper understanding of complex issues, ultimately contributing to a more informed and engaged society that we need at this time of our nation’s history.

TheCable Lifestyle: What specific societal ills do you aim to highlight through your content, and why do you believe sarcasm is an effective tool in addressing them?

King IY: This is going to be an unending list if I get into it. It is important that we actively contribute to the realization of a Nigeria that not only meets our aspirations but also serves as a source of pride for future generations. This is the driving force behind my content.

Indeed, not everyone may be a content creator like myself, but every individual possesses unique talents, skills, and spheres of influence through which they can make meaningful contributions. Whether as a doctor saving lives, an engineer building infrastructure, or a teacher shaping young minds, everyone has a role to play in advancing our collective cause.

I choose to utilize my voice and platform as my means of contribution, recognizing the power of storytelling and social commentary to provoke thought and inspire action. Similarly, individuals in other professions can leverage their expertise and passion to effect positive change within their respective domains.

Ultimately, it is through the collective efforts of individuals from all walks of life, each diligently playing their part, that we can truly transform Nigeria into a nation of which we and future generations can be unequivocally proud.

TheCable Lifestyle: How do you incorporate cultural diversity into your comedy, especially when performing for a diverse audience like in the UK?

King IY: Cultural diversity is a rich source of material for comedy. I celebrate different cultures by sharing anecdotes and observations that resonate with people from various backgrounds, creating a shared experience that everyone can enjoy. I have enjoyed performing in different countries outside Nigeria and it deepens my experience of life which is the core of what forms my materials on stage and in creating my content.

TheCable Lifestyle: In your journey, what moments stand out to you as particularly impactful in terms of sparking conversation or inspiring change within your audience?

King IY: I am particularly proud of how much I could do in the build-up to the 2023 general elections, sensitizing people to get their permanent voters card (PVC), and participating in the process. I was proud when media houses like AriseTV and larger social media platforms aired my content.

TheCable Lifestyle: Can you share any memorable moments or experiences from your journey as a comedian and event host?

King IY: Every time I get to perform is a blessing to me, the chance to share in beautiful moments like weddings, and birthdays and be a part of so many families because of my talents makes me so happy.

And I think the chance to work with DJ Cuppy all these years as a hypeman is really lovely. I am proud of the journey so far and I look forward to what adventures life has for me in the future

TheCable Lifestyle: In your opinion, how would you assess the performance of the current government, particularly in addressing the societal issues you often highlight in your content?

King IY: As citizens, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to Nigeria’s advancement, regardless of the outcomes of elections. The elections are gone and we must extend our support to the government in power. It is equally vital to engage in constructive criticism, as an essential pillar of democracy. This balance ensures that we hold our leaders accountable and maintain the integrity of our democratic institutions.

You know the issues facing the nation now — economic challenges, insecurity among others — but we will constructively criticize when we have to and applaud the government when they deserve it.

Celebrating and acknowledging positive strides and achievements is essential, as it fosters a culture of encouragement and motivation for government. However, we must also be vigilant in addressing shortcomings and areas where improvement is needed, ensuring that our leaders remain responsive and accountable to the needs and aspirations of the people they serve.

It is essential to recognize that governments are transient entities, subject to change through electoral processes. However, the nation itself remains a constant, and our dedication to its progress must endure regardless of shifts in leadership. Government go, government come, Nigeria remains. By collectively striving for the betterment of our nation, transcending individual interests and political affiliations, we uphold the vision of a prosperous and thriving Nigeria for generations to come.

TheCable Lifestyle: You have just announced a comedy show in the United Kingdom, tell us about that.

King IY: Funny how I have always had support from Nigerians in the diaspora, I really appreciate their love and support. I teamed up with a veteran comedian “MC Okomama” for this one. We will also have a couple of other top talents for the show. It is titled ‘Comedy Convulsion’ and I think it is the right time after performing on the UK tour of some top brands like AY, Sabinus, and Destalker and performing at several other shows in the UK.

The show will be held at Jubilee Club in Newcastle on July 5, 2024, and it promises to be a night of premium comedy and a night of all-around entertainment and fun.

TheCable Lifestyle: What are your aspirations for the future of your career, both in Nigeria and internationally?

I aspire to continue growing as an event host, content creator, and comedian, expanding my reach in Nigeria and internationally.

My goal is to bring joy and laughter to audiences worldwide while staying true to my roots and cultural identity. Also, contributing my quota to achieving the Nigeria of our dreams.